“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
One of my fondest memories involves a road trip through the Southern United States, where the radio constantly played classic country hits. Among them, “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” by Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty stood out, encapsulating the spirit of Southern love and adventure. This song, with its catchy tune and charming lyrics, instantly became a favorite.
About The Composition
- Title: Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man
- Composer: Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty
- Premiere Date: 1973
- Album/Opus/Collection: Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man (Album)
- Genre: Country
Background
Released in 1973, “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” is a duet by Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty from their album of the same name. This song is the duo’s third studio album and highlights their remarkable chemistry and storytelling prowess. The narrative focuses on a romantic relationship challenged by the Mississippi River, symbolizing both a physical and emotional barrier. The song’s success was immediate, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, and it played a crucial role in establishing Lynn and Twitty as a powerhouse duo in the country music scene.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” is quintessentially country, characterized by an upbeat tempo and vibrant instrumentation. The song features a blend of fiddles, steel guitars, and harmonicas, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The alternating verses sung by Lynn and Twitty highlight their vocal harmony and the playful interaction between the characters in the song.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics tell a story of love overcoming geographical and emotional obstacles, with the Mississippi River serving as a metaphor for the distance between the lovers. The playful back-and-forth dialogue in the lyrics underscores the strong bond and determination of the couple, making the song’s narrative both engaging and relatable.
Performance History
“Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty’s performances of “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” have been a highlight in their joint appearances, drawing enthusiastic responses from audiences. The song’s popularity has remained strong over the years, with many artists covering it in tribute to the legendary duo, ensuring its continued presence in the country music repertoire.
Cultural Impact
The song has made a lasting impact on country music and beyond, becoming a staple in the genre’s catalog. Its storytelling approach and regional pride resonate with listeners, and it has been featured in various films and television shows, cementing its place in American pop culture.
Legacy
“Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty’s “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” continues to be a beloved classic in country music. Its influence is evident in the works of contemporary country artists, and it remains a favorite among fans for its timeless charm and engaging story. The song’s enduring appeal ensures that it will be enjoyed by future generations.
Conclusion
“Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty’s “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man” is a delightful exploration of love and regional pride, set to a lively country tune. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the duo’s talent and the song’s universal appeal. I encourage you to listen to this classic track, preferably the original recording, to fully appreciate its charm and the legacy of Lynn and Twitty’s collaboration.
Video
Lyrics
Hey, Louisiana woman, Mississippi man
We’ll get together every time we can
The Mississippi River can’t keep us apart
There’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
See the alligator all a-waitin’ nearby
Sooner or later they know I’m gonna try
When she wave from the bank don’t you know I know
It’s a goodbye fishin’ line, see you while I go
With a Louisiana woman waitin’ on the other side
The Mississippi River don’t look so wide
Louisiana woman, Mississippi man
We’ll get together every time we can
The Mississippi River can’t keep us apart
There’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Well, I thought I’d been loved but I never had
‘Til I was wrapped in the arms of a Mississippi man
When he holds me close it feels almost
Like another hurricane just a-ripped the coast
If he can’t come to me I’ma gonna go to him
That Mississippi River, Lord, I’m gonna swim
Hey, Louisiana woman, Mississippi man
We’ll get together every time we can
The Mississippi River can’t keep us apart
There’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Well, the Mississippi River, Lord, it’s one mile wide
And I’m gonna get me to the other side
Mississippi man, I’m losin’ my mind
Gotta have your lovin’ one more time
I’m gonna jump in the river and-a here I go
Too bad alligator you swim too slow
Hey, Louisiana woman, Mississippi man
We’ll get together every time we can
The Mississippi River can’t keep us apart
There’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Ah, there’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Hey
Ah, there’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Ah, there’s too much love in this Mississippi heart
Too much love in this Louisiana heart
Hey