Introduction:
“Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” is a classic country song by George Strait, a true icon of the genre. The song embodies the traditional country theme of hard luck and misfortune, delivered with Strait’s signature understated yet deeply emotive vocal style. It’s a relatable narrative for anyone who has felt like life keeps throwing challenges their way.
- Year Released: 1983
- Album: Right or Wrong
The song was released in 1983 and is featured on George Strait’s highly successful album, Right or Wrong. This album was a pivotal release in Strait’s early career, further solidifying his position as a leading figure in the burgeoning neotraditional country movement. Right or Wrong itself was a landmark album, producing multiple number-one hits and showcasing Strait’s commitment to authentic country sounds. “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” was co-written by Charlie Craig and Keith Stegall, with Stegall later becoming a notable producer in country music, including for Alan Jackson.
Genre:
“Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” is firmly entrenched in the neotraditional country genre, a style that George Strait championed throughout the 1980s and beyond. This genre is characterized by:
- Traditional Instrumentation: The song features the classic sounds of country music, including prominent fiddle, steel guitar, and a steady, rhythmic foundation. These elements provide a rich, authentic backdrop that harkens back to the golden age of country music while still sounding fresh.
- Storytelling Lyrics: The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a string of bad luck, using relatable imagery and a conversational tone. Phrases like “Every time my ship comes in, a hurricane blows it out again” and “I got a letter from the I.R.S., they said, son, you’re in a hell of a mess” immediately connect with listeners who have faced similar frustrations. This narrative approach is a cornerstone of traditional country songwriting.
- Authentic Vocal Delivery: Strait’s vocal performance on this track is understated and heartfelt. He delivers the lyrics with a genuine sincerity that makes the listener believe in the character’s plight. His smooth, unadorned baritone became a hallmark of his style, setting him apart from more pop-leaning country artists of the era.
- Honky-Tonk Influence: While a ballad in its lyrical content, the song maintains a rhythmic feel that is rooted in honky-tonk, making it suitable for dancing and showcasing the musicianship of Strait’s Ace in the Hole Band.
Achievements:
While “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” was not released as a standalone single, its inclusion on the Right or Wrong album contributed significantly to the album’s overall success and George Strait’s burgeoning career. The album itself achieved remarkable milestones:
- Right or Wrong Album Success: The album topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, solidifying Strait’s status as a dominant force in country music. It also peaked at No. 163 on the all-genre Billboard 200, indicating a growing crossover appeal. The album was certified Platinum by the RIAA, signifying sales of over one million units.
- Contribution to a Hit Album: Right or Wrong produced three number-one singles on the Hot Country Singles chart: “You Look So Good in Love” (which was Strait’s first music video), the title track “Right or Wrong,” and “Let’s Fall to Pieces Together.” “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” played a crucial role in the album’s cohesive sound and overall artistic quality, which undoubtedly contributed to its widespread appeal and the success of its singles.
- Showcasing Strait’s Versatility: Although known for his upbeat honky-tonk tunes, “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” demonstrated Strait’s ability to deliver more melancholic and reflective material with equal conviction. This versatility allowed him to connect with a broader emotional spectrum of his audience.
- Reinforcing Neotraditionalism: The song, along with the entire Right or Wrong album, reinforced George Strait’s commitment to traditional country sounds at a time when many artists were experimenting with pop influences. This dedication earned him immense respect from critics and traditional country fans, helping to define the sound of country music for the decade.
In conclusion, “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour),” released in 1983 on the album Right or Wrong, is a quintessential George Strait song. As a prime example of neotraditional country, it features authentic instrumentation, relatable storytelling, and Strait’s iconic vocal delivery. While not a single itself, its presence on a multi-platinum, chart-topping album contributed to the album’s success and solidified George Strait’s reputation as a timeless country music legend, renowned for his unwavering commitment to the genre’s roots and his ability to capture the universal experiences of life’s ups and downs.