Ah, yes, Ronnie Milsap’s “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me”. Released in 1981, this song stands as a testament to Milsap’s unique ability to bridge the gap between country and pop music. A blind musician with a phenomenal gift for piano and a powerful voice, Milsap carved his own path in the early 80s, becoming a true crossover artist.
Prior to “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me,” Milsap had already established himself as a country force. Throughout the 70s, he racked up an impressive number of number one hits, often incorporating elements of soul and pop into his sound. This willingness to experiment, however, occasionally raised eyebrows with purists. But Milsap, a true musical chameleon, never shied away from pushing boundaries.
The song itself, written by Walt Aldridge and Tom Brasfield, is a masterclass in catchy hooks and clever lyricism. While firmly rooted in the country tradition, with its themes of heartache and lingering love, the song’s melody and arrangement have a undeniable pop sensibility. The driving bass line, the soaring piano solo, and the infectious “no gettin’ over me” refrain all contribute to a sound that’s both familiar and undeniably fresh.
The production of the track, overseen by Billy Sherrill, is as smooth as Milsap’s vocals. Sherrill, known for his work with artists like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, was a master of crafting polished country sounds. Here, however, he injects a subtle layer of pop sheen, evident in the use of synthesizers and a more layered instrumental approach. This production style wouldn’t become commonplace in country music for a few more years, but “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me” stands as an early example of its effectiveness.
The gamble paid off in a big way. The song became a monster hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and achieving a remarkable feat – cracking the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This mainstream success cemented Milsap’s status as a crossover artist, appealing equally to country traditionalists and pop music fans.
“(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me” wasn’t just a commercial success; it was a critical darling as well. The song earned Milsap a Grammy nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance, further solidifying his place as a musical innovator.
So, when you hit play on “(There’s) No Gettin’ Over Me,” prepare for a journey through a soundscape that transcends genre. It’s a song that showcases Ronnie Milsap at his best: a charismatic vocalist, a skilled musician, and a true pioneer of country-pop fusion.