Introduction
When I listen to the melodies of “Diggin’ Up Bones,” I’m transported back to peaceful evenings with my family, where country music flowed from an old radio. The song serves as a poignant reminder of past memories and the genuine emotions that come with them.
About The Composition
- Title: Diggin’ Up Bones
- Artist: Randy Travis
- Release Date: July 17, 1986
- Album: Storms of Life
- Genre: Country
Background
“Diggin’ Up Bones” is one of the iconic hits by Randy Travis, a pivotal figure in 1980s American country music. Released as the third single from his debut album, Storms of Life, the song marked a significant turning point in Travis’s career, solidifying his place in the country music scene. The track narrates the story of a man reminiscing about a past love, sifting through old keepsakes and memories, encapsulating deep feelings of sorrow and regret.
Musical Style
The song embodies traditional country music elements with a slow tempo and the use of instruments like acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and fiddle. Randy Travis’s warm baritone voice combined with heartfelt lyrics creates a profound emotional impact. The song’s simple yet effective structure, featuring a memorable chorus, allows listeners to easily connect and sing along.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Diggin’ Up Bones” revolve around themes of nostalgia and the lamentation of a lost relationship. The protagonist goes through mementos such as wedding rings, photographs, and letters, each item invoking powerful memories and emotions. The metaphor of “digging up bones” is used to illustrate the inability to let go of the past.
Performance History
Upon its release, “Diggin’ Up Bones” quickly climbed to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. The song has been performed at numerous significant music events and has been covered by various artists. Its enthusiastic reception by the public underscores its importance in Randy Travis’s career and its influence in the country music genre.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its commercial success, “Diggin’ Up Bones” has had a substantial impact on popular culture. The song has appeared in several television shows and films, becoming a part of the collective memory of 1980s country music. It also helped shape the musical style for future generations of country artists.
Legacy
To this day, “Diggin’ Up Bones” maintains its status as a classic country song. It continues to be played on radio stations and featured in country music playlists. The song’s authenticity and emotional depth continue to resonate with listeners across multiple generations.
Conclusion
“Diggin’ Up Bones” is a remarkable piece that blends traditional melodies with sincere emotions. If you haven’t listened to this song yet, I highly recommend giving it a try to experience the essence of country music. The original recording from Randy Travis’s album Storms of Life is an excellent place to start
Video
Lyrics
Last night, I dug your picture out from my old dresser drawer
I set it on the table and I talked to it ’til four
I read some old love letters right up ’til the break of dawn
Yeah, I’ve been sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones
Then I went through the jewelry and I found our wedding rings
I put mine on my finger and I gave yours a fling
Across this lonely bedroom of our recent broken home
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
Exhumin’ things that’s better left alone
I’m resurrectin’ memories of a love that’s dead and gone
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones
And I went through the closet and I found some things in there
Like that pretty negligee that I bought you to wear
And I recall how good you looked each time you had it on
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
Exhumin’ things that’s better left alone
I’m resurrectin’ memories of a love that’s dead and gone
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones
I’m resurrectin’ memories of a love that’s dead and gone
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
Exhumin’ things that’s better left alone
I’m resurrectin’ memories of a love that’s dead and gone
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
I’m diggin’ up bones (diggin’ up bones)
Exhumin’ things that’s better left alone
I’m resurrectin’ memories of a love that’s dead and gone
Yeah, tonight, I’m sittin’ alone, diggin’ up bones