Kenny Rogers – Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town: A Ballad of Love, Loss, and Regret
In the realm of country music, Kenny Rogers stands as a towering figure, his warm baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics weaving tales of love, loss, and the human condition. Among his vast repertoire, “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” holds a special place, a poignant ballad that captures the raw emotions of a man grappling with the impending loss of his beloved wife.
Background
Released in 1969, “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success propelled Rogers to national stardom, solidifying his position as one of the most popular country music artists of the era.
The song’s narrative follows a paralyzed war veteran, confined to his wheelchair and watching his wife, Ruby, prepare to leave for an evening out. As he observes her getting ready, he is consumed by a wave of insecurity and fear, dreading the thought of being alone and left behind.
Rogers’ vocals are the emotional core of the song, his voice laced with vulnerability and desperation as he pleads with Ruby to stay. He expresses his deep love for her and his fear of losing her companionship, painting a vivid picture of his emotional turmoil.
The lyrics, penned by Mel Tillis, are simple yet powerful, capturing the essence of the protagonist’s inner turmoil. They delve into themes of love, loss, insecurity, and the complexities of human relationships.
The song’s chorus is particularly poignant, with Rogers’ voice echoing the protagonist’s desperation as he sings, “Ruby, don’t take your love to town/Don’t leave me here by myself again/Ruby, I’m begging you, please don’t go/I can’t make it without you, I don’t know.”
“Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” has become a country music classic, covered by numerous artists and earning a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame. Rogers’ heartfelt rendition remains the definitive version, a testament to his songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Mel Tillis.
- It was released in 1969 as the lead single from Rogers’ album The First Edition.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, Waylon Jennings, and Trisha Yearwood.