About the song
“Strange” by Patsy Cline is a haunting ballad that stands out as one of the most emotionally powerful songs in her storied career. Released in 1961, this song became an enduring example of Patsy Cline’s unparalleled ability to convey deep emotional vulnerability through her voice. “Strange” is featured on her album “Patsy Cline Showcase,” which is widely considered one of her most important releases, further cementing her status as a country music legend.
“Strange” was written by Harlan Howard, a celebrated country songwriter known for his ability to craft songs that explore complex emotions in straightforward, relatable ways. The song itself deals with the pain of unrequited love and the strange feeling of longing for someone who doesn’t feel the same. In the lyrics, Patsy Cline sings about the emotional turbulence and bewilderment that comes with being in love with someone who does not reciprocate those feelings. The title “Strange” captures the feeling of being in a love that is confusing, uncertain, and, above all, one-sided. Patsy’s delivery is raw and poignant, bringing a sense of isolation and confusion to life in a way that few artists can match.
The significance of “Strange” in Cline’s career cannot be overstated. Known for her rich, smoky voice and emotionally evocative delivery, Patsy Cline brings every ounce of vulnerability and heartache to the song, making it a standout in her catalog. “Strange” became a commercial success and is now recognized as one of her most enduring songs. It showcases her incredible vocal range and her ability to turn even the most heartbreaking of lyrics into a deeply relatable and compelling performance. With its mournful, almost wistful tone, the song remains an iconic example of country music’s emotional depth during the early 1960s.
The influence of “Strange” and Patsy Cline’s overall impact on the country music genre cannot be overlooked. Her voice has influenced countless artists who came after her, both in country and other genres, with her unique ability to blend honky-tonk, traditional country, and pop music into something deeply personal and universally relatable. In the context of the 1960s, when country music was evolving, Patsy Cline provided a bridge between the traditional country of the past and the emerging pop-country sounds that would define the genre in the years to come. Songs like “Strange” helped to redefine what country music could express, allowing for greater emotional complexity and depth within the genre.
Moreover, “Strange” was released at a time when Patsy Cline was at the peak of her career. The song’s success helped to solidify her place as one of country music’s most beloved and influential figures, further adding to her legacy as one of the greatest voices in country music history. Even though Cline’s career was tragically cut short in 1963, her influence has remained enduring, and her songs like “Strange” continue to resonate with listeners, both old and new.
In the years since its release, “Strange” has been regarded as a prime example of Patsy Cline’s emotional range and her ability to make each song uniquely her own. The song’s haunting melody and deeply personal lyrics still strike a chord with listeners who may find themselves in a similar emotional place, feeling the sting of unrequited love and the confusion that often accompanies such feelings.
In conclusion, “Strange” by Patsy Cline is a timeless classic that captures the pain and bewilderment of love gone wrong. Released in 1961 as part of the album “Patsy Cline Showcase,” the song highlights Cline’s unmatched vocal ability and emotional depth. Its cultural significance is reflected in its continued relevance and its influence on artists across genres, making it not just a country song but a piece of music history. The song remains a powerful testament to Patsy Cline’s legacy and her place in the pantheon of great American singers.
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Lyrics
Strange, how you stopped loving meHow you stopped needing meWhen she came alongOh, how strangeStrange, you changed like night and dayJust upped and walked awayWhen she came alongOh, how strangeWell, I thought that I was just your puppetYou held on a stringTo think I thought you really loved meBut look what thoughts can bring, oh, oh, ohStrange, you’re still in all my dreamsOh, what a funny thingI still care for youOh, how strangeWell, I thought that I was just your puppetYou held on a stringTo think I thought you really loved meBut look what thoughts can bring, oh, oh, ohStrange you’re still in all my dreamsOh, what a funny thingI still care for youOh, how strangeHow strangeHow strangeHow strangeHow strange