“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
When it comes to the music of The Oak Ridge Boys, simplicity often becomes the gateway to something deeper. “Little Things” is one of those songs that manages to capture the beauty of life’s everyday moments. Listening to it reminds me of my own moments of reflection, when the smallest gestures—like a kind word or a warm embrace—mean the world. This song taps into the universal truth that happiness isn’t always found in grand gestures, but in the little things that color our lives.
About The Composition
- Title: Little Things
- Composer: Steve Dean and Wil Nance
- Premiere Date: 1999
- Album: Voices
- Genre: Country
Background
Released in 1999 on their album Voices, “Little Things” is a track that blends The Oak Ridge Boys’ signature country sound with heartfelt lyrics that celebrate the quiet joys of life. Written by Steve Dean and Wil Nance, the song emphasizes how life’s small, often overlooked moments, such as a glance or a smile, are truly the most significant. The Oak Ridge Boys, known for their rich harmonies and long-standing presence in country music, embraced this theme and delivered it with warmth and sincerity. “Little Things” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it’s one of those songs that stays with listeners, giving them a sense of contentment and gratitude.
Musical Style
“Little Things” is grounded in a traditional country style, with a straightforward arrangement that lets the harmonies and lyrics take center stage. The song showcases The Oak Ridge Boys’ classic four-part harmony, which is both soothing and uplifting. The instrumentation includes acoustic guitars, gentle percussion, and a soft bassline, which together create a calming backdrop for the reflective nature of the lyrics. The simplicity of the musical composition mirrors the message of the song—it’s not about complexity, but about appreciating what’s right in front of you.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Little Things” focus on the small, everyday moments that make life meaningful. Lines like “It’s the little things that make life worth living / The love that you get and the love that you’re giving” encapsulate the song’s theme of gratitude for the small joys of life. There’s no grand narrative or dramatic story arc; instead, the song finds beauty in simplicity. The understated nature of the lyrics allows the listener to connect deeply, reflecting on their own experiences with life’s little treasures.
Performance History
While “Little Things” may not have made waves on the charts like some of The Oak Ridge Boys’ other hits, it’s a song that has been cherished in live performances. Fans of the band often find comfort in its message, and it has been performed at various concerts, particularly during their more intimate acoustic sets. The Oak Ridge Boys’ ability to connect with their audience through heartfelt delivery is especially evident in performances of this song.
Cultural Impact
Though it didn’t achieve massive commercial success, “Little Things” resonates with listeners who appreciate country music’s storytelling tradition. Its message about appreciating the small, often overlooked moments in life has a timeless quality. The song’s simplicity makes it a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever found joy in the quiet moments of life, whether it’s shared in a car ride or while sitting on a porch with a loved one. In this way, the song has had a quiet but lasting influence, embodying the heart of country music: connection and emotion.
Legacy
“Little Things” is a reminder of what really matters. Even though it might not be the first song that comes to mind when people think of The Oak Ridge Boys, its message is enduring. As we navigate a fast-paced world, the song’s sentiment—appreciating the little things—feels more relevant than ever. It’s a timeless reminder to slow down, notice the world around us, and find joy in the everyday. For many fans, “Little Things” stands out as a song that feels personal, almost like a quiet secret shared between the band and the listener.
Conclusion
In the grand scheme of life, it’s easy to get swept up in the pursuit of big dreams, milestones, and success. But “Little Things” reminds us to pause and take stock of what’s around us—the small moments that, when added together, create a life well-lived. This song is an invitation to reflect and find joy in simplicity. I encourage you to give it a listen, perhaps while sitting outside on a quiet evening, and let the harmonies of The Oak Ridge Boys remind you of the beauty in life’s little things.
Video
Lyrics
It’s the way you kiss me when we’re walkin’ down the street
It’s the words you whisper when we’re driftin’ off to sleep
A certain way you touch me, the way you say “hello”
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
The way you pour your coffee in the early mornin’ light
How you call my name out in the middle of the night
And how you sit for hours singin’ with the radio
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
It’s not the memories or all that we’ve been through
It’s not the distant dreams that keep me coming back to you
It’s not the promises that keep me warm at night
It’s just the every day, it’s just the safe and sound
It’s just our home sweet home
And when we’re old and gray now and the kids have gone away
We’re alone together I may turn to you and say
There’s something I forgot to tell you and by now I think you’ll know
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
Woah woah, Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so, Woah woah
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so, Woah woah woah
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so, Woah woah woah
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so, Woah woah woah
Walkin’ the park, kissin’ in the dark
The little things that baby makes me feel alright now
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so
Baby it’s the little things that make me love you so