“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Carroll Baker’s “One Drink Is One Too Many (And a Thousand’s Not Enough)” stands as one of the most poignant songs in country music about the devastating grip of alcoholism. Released in 1976 on her self-titled album, this haunting ballad showcases Baker’s remarkable storytelling ability and her gift for conveying deep emotion through song.
A Song Born from Real Life
What makes this song particularly powerful is that it wasn’t just another country tune about drinking—it was inspired by a true story. As Baker herself revealed years later on social media, “The song I wrote and recorded many years ago has a new life. Inspired by a true story about my ‘friend’ Joe, the song has been a gift.”
The lyrics tell the story of a talented guitarist whose promising music career was derailed by alcoholism. The narrator, a performer, notices a man in a bar who seems particularly engaged with the band’s music. After the show, she introduces herself, and when she declines his offer of a drink, he shares his painful truth: “I joined AA just last year, it’s sure been mighty rough / One drink is one too many and a thousand’s not enough.”
The Perfect Storyteller
As “Canada’s First Lady of Country Music,” Carroll Baker brought authenticity to this narrative that few others could match. Born in Port Medway, Nova Scotia, and later relocating to Ontario, Baker’s rise to fame in the 1970s made her one of Canada’s most beloved country artists. With her warm, emotive voice and genuine delivery, she transformed this story of addiction and redemption into something deeply moving.
The song’s brilliance lies in its compassionate perspective. Rather than judging the struggling musician, Baker’s narrator offers understanding and encouragement, eventually coaxing him to play again. The final verses reveal a moment of healing as music—not alcohol—once again becomes his source of comfort.
Legacy and Impact
“One Drink Is One Too Many” became one of Baker’s signature songs during a career that saw her achieve an unprecedented 12 consecutive #1 hits in Canada. The song resonated with listeners who either struggled with addiction themselves or knew someone who did.
Baker performed the song on her CBC Special in 1978, bringing its powerful message to television audiences across Canada. Irish country singer Philomena Begley later recorded her own version, extending the song’s reach to new audiences.
In an industry often criticized for glamorizing alcohol, Baker’s honest portrayal of addiction’s harsh realities stands as a testament to country music’s ability to address difficult subjects with honesty and heart.
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Lyrics
He was just the average kind of guy you find hangin’ round the bar
By the way he listened to our band, I knew he played guitar
So when the show was over, I just had to talk to him
Shook his hand, said “How ya doin'”, he just answered with a grin
He said “Can I buy you something”, I said “No thanks, I don’t drink”
The strangest look came across his face and he looked at me and winked
He said “I joined AA just last year, it’s sure been mighty rough
One drink is one too many and a thousand’s not enough”
I said “Why come to a place like this, you must be living in pure hell”
He said “I played guitar some years ago and they say I played it well
Music was my only love, but I just had to give it up
One drink is one too many and a thousand’s not enough”
So I gave him my guitar, said “Won’t you please play me a song”
Shook his head, said “I just couldn’t, I haven’t played one for so long”
So I coaxed him just a little more and he finally gave up
Sang a song of one’s too many and a thousand’s not enough
So now I understand it as he plays and sings his song
And I know it’s through the grace of God he’s found where he belongs
I know that he was drownin’ once, but for the last time he’s come up
He said “One is one too many and a thousand’s not enough”
Yes, he said “One is one too many and a thousand’s not enough”