Tennessee Waltz

Song Meaning of Tennessee Waltz by Patti Page

One of the most popular and beloved country songs is Patti Page's 1950 version of Tennessee Waltz, which became a hit both in the US and around the world. The song was originally recorded as the B-side to the Christmas hit "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus" for Mercury Records, but it eventually climbed to the top of the charts and sold millions of copies. In 1998, it was inducted into the Grammy's Hall of Fame.

The story behind the song is a classic tale of heartache and lost love. The narrator falls in love with someone who is not her spouse and is distraught when he waltzes away from her in front of his friends.

The song's lyrics express the narrator's lingering desire to have her back in his arms, and it has been described as a beautiful melancholy melody.

Despite the song's romantic narrative, it has transcended its traditional roots and become a commentary on American history and identity. The song's poignant lyrics and haunting melody evoke the universal experience of loss, betrayal, and longing for a simpler time. This is why the University of Tennessee Pride of the Southland Band plays this song at the end of every home game at Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena.

Tennessee Waltz lyrics by Patti Page

I was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz

When an old friend I happened to see

Introduced her to my loved one and while they were dancing

My friend stole my sweetheart from me

I remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz

Now I know just how much I have lost

Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing

The beautiful Tennessee Waltz

I was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz

When an old friend I happened to see

Introduced her to my loved one and while they were dancing

My friend stole my sweetheart from me

I remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz

Now I know just how much I have lost

Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing

The beautiful Tennessee Waltz