About the song
“That’s My Job”, released in 1987, is one of Conway Twitty’s most heartfelt and enduring songs. Featured on his album “Borderline”, this track stands as a testament to the depth of his vocal and songwriting prowess, capturing the quiet strength of a man who is dedicated to his family and his role as a provider and protector. Known for his rich baritone and emotional delivery, Twitty imbues the song with sincerity and vulnerability, making it resonate with listeners on a personal level.
At its core, “That’s My Job” is about the unspoken responsibilities of love, commitment, and sacrifice. The lyrics portray a man’s pledge to always stand by his family, no matter the challenges they may face. The narrator reflects on the simple, yet profound, duties that come with being a husband and father. With lines like “That’s my job, that’s what I do”, the song speaks to the quiet, everyday actions that define a person’s role in the lives of those they love. Twitty sings about providing emotional support, offering comfort, and ensuring that his loved ones feel safe and cared for, even when words fall short.
Musically, “That’s My Job” is a quintessential Conway Twitty ballad. The song features a smooth, melodic arrangement with soft acoustic guitar and gentle piano backing, allowing his deep voice to take center stage. The production is subtle yet effective, supporting the reflective nature of the lyrics. As the song progresses, the instrumental arrangement swells, mirroring the emotional weight of the message. It’s a classic example of Twitty’s ability to combine simplicity and emotional depth to create a song that feels timeless and sincere.
Upon its release, “That’s My Job” became a major success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It is widely regarded as one of Twitty’s most iconic hits, showcasing his gift for storytelling and his unique ability to evoke deep emotion with his voice. The song’s success marked a peak in Twitty‘s career, which had already spanned several decades and included numerous hits. Its success also reinforced his reputation as one of country music’s greatest vocalists.
The cultural impact of “That’s My Job” is significant, especially considering the context of the 1980s, a decade marked by shifting social and family dynamics. The song’s message of commitment and responsibility resonated deeply with listeners at a time when traditional family values were often portrayed in the media as being in flux. Twitty‘s song reminds us of the fundamental roles that love, family, and duty play in life—roles that are often quiet but powerful in their impact. For many listeners, the song became an anthem of personal responsibility, touching on the themes of family loyalty and dedication that were particularly meaningful in the context of both rural and urban American life.
In addition to its cultural relevance, “That’s My Job” had a lasting influence on country music as a whole. The song, with its focus on heartfelt lyrics and emotional storytelling, became an exemplar of the style of country ballads that blend personal reflection with universal themes. It helped solidify Conway Twitty as a country legend who was not only a singer but also a master of lyrical expression, touching the hearts of his audience with every note.
In conclusion, “That’s My Job” is a deeply moving song that captures the essence of Conway Twitty‘s musical artistry. Released in 1987 as part of his album “Borderline”, it stands as a timeless expression of love, responsibility, and dedication. With its simple yet powerful message and Twitty’s emotive performance, the song continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate the quiet strength of familial love and the importance of fulfilling one’s role within the family. Its enduring success is a testament to both the depth of Twitty‘s talent and the universal appeal of the song’s themes.
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Lyrics
I woke up crying late at nightWhen I was very youngI had dreamed my fatherHad passed away and goneMy world revolved around himI couldn’t lie there anymoreSo I made my way down the mirrored hallAnd tapped upon his doorAnd I said “Daddy, I’m so afraidHow will I go on with you gone that way?Don’t want to cry anymore, so may I stay with you?”And he said “That’s my jobThat’s what I doEverything I do is because of youTo keep you safe with meThat’s my job you see”Later we barely got alongThis teenage boy and heMost of the fights it seemsWere over different dreamsWe each held for meHe wanted knowledge and learningI wanted to fly out westSaid, “I could make it out thereIf I just had the fareI got half, will you loan me the rest?”And I said “Daddy, I’m so afraidThere’s no guarantee in the plansI’ve made and if I should failWho will pay my way back home?”And he said “That’s my jobThat’s what I doEverything I do is because of youTo keep you safe with meThat’s my job you see”Every person carves his spotAnd fills the hole with lightAnd I pray someday I mightLight as bright as heWoke up early one bright fall dayTo spread the tragic newsAfter all my travel, I settled downWithin a mile or twoI make my living with words and rhymeAnd all this tragedyShould go into my head and out insteadAs bits of poetryBut I say “Daddy, I’m so afraidHow will I go on with you gone this way?How can I come up with a song to say I love you?”That’s my job, That’s what I doEverything I do is because of youTo keep you safe with meThat’s my job you seeEverything I do is because of youTo keep you safe with me