About The Song
In the realm of country music, few names resonate with the enduring legacy of Conway Twitty. A true icon of the genre, Twitty’s rich baritone voice and heartfelt performances captivated audiences for decades, earning him a place among the Grand Ole Opry’s most celebrated members. Throughout his illustrious career, Twitty amassed an impressive collection of chart-topping hits, spanning various subgenres of country music. Among his most beloved and enduring works is the 1961 single “Big Town”.
“Big Town” stands as a timeless classic, showcasing Twitty’s masterful blend of countrypolitan sensibilities with a touch of rockabilly swagger. The song’s narrative follows a young man’s journey from the tranquil simplicity of rural life to the bustling excitement of the big city. As he navigates the unfamiliar urban landscape, he grapples with the contrast between the slower pace of his hometown and the frenetic energy of his new surroundings.
Twitty’s emotive vocals perfectly capture the protagonist’s mixed emotions, conveying both the allure of the big city’s opportunities and the lingering nostalgia for the comforts of home. The song’s lyrics, penned by Curly Williams and Mayme Axton, paint vivid imagery of the bustling city streets, contrasting them with the serene beauty of the countryside.
“Big Town” was an instant success upon its release, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1961. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country genre, crossing over to the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 65. This crossover appeal solidified Twitty’s status as a versatile artist, capable of captivating audiences with both traditional country fare and more pop-infused sounds.
The enduring legacy of “Big Town” is evident in its numerous covers by various artists across genres. Country music legends such as George Jones, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson have all paid homage to Twitty’s classic, each offering their unique interpretations of the song. Even beyond the country realm, “Big Town” has been covered by rockabilly and pop artists, further demonstrating its timeless appeal and versatility.
Conway Twitty’s “Big Town” remains a cornerstone of country music history, a testament to his artistry and the enduring power of great songwriting. The song’s poignant lyrics, infectious melody, and Twitty’s masterful vocals have captivated listeners for generations, cementing its place among the genre’s most beloved classics. “Big Town” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless tale of ambition, nostalgia, and the search for one’s place in the world.
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Lyric
This big town is a shelter for meI found a place to hide my misery I lost my love so long ago And though my heart is hurting so The one I love will never know As long as I stayIn this big town I find the peace of mindThat only losers in the game of love can find The years have gone crawling by This hurt I feel will never die Somehow I know deep down inside I’ll never get away from this big town From this big townIn this big town there’s a street of miseryAnd on the street there’s a dwelling place for me In the darkness of my room I try To sleep but all I do is cry And still I realize that I am ever lucky to be hereIn this big town so no one else can seeJust what your cheating heart has done to me The glimmer of the city lights The shadows of the lonely nights Will help to hide me while I cry A hundred dreaded tearsIn this big townIn this big town In this big town In this big town In this big town