“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
My first encounter with “Flowers on the Wall” was during a long road trip with my family. We had an old cassette tape of The Statler Brothers, and this song stood out with its quirky, upbeat rhythm and humorous lyrics. Little did I know that it was a Grammy-winning piece with a rich history and significant impact.
About The Composition
- Title: Flowers on the Wall
- Composer: Lew DeWitt
- Premiere Date: 1965
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Flowers on the Wall” (1966)
- Genre: Country
Background
“Flowers on the Wall” was written by Lew DeWitt, a member of The Statler Brothers. Released in 1965, the song quickly became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s humorous take on loneliness and boredom struck a chord with audiences, making it an instant classic. It was the title track of The Statler Brothers’ debut album in 1966, showcasing their unique blend of country and pop influences. The song’s success helped establish The Statler Brothers as a prominent group in the country music scene.
Musical Style
The song features a catchy, upbeat melody with a distinctive bass line and rhythm guitar accompaniment. The Statler Brothers’ harmonies add richness and depth to the piece, while the lyrics’ playful and ironic tone contrasts with the cheerful music. The structure is straightforward, with verses and a memorable chorus that sticks with listeners long after the song ends. This juxtaposition of light-hearted music and reflective lyrics is a hallmark of the group’s style.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Flowers on the Wall” describe a man’s attempt to cope with loneliness and boredom by engaging in trivial activities, such as counting flowers on the wall, playing solitaire, and smoking cigarettes. The humor in the lyrics lies in the mundane nature of these activities, which starkly contrasts with the lively tune. This contrast creates a unique charm, making the song both amusing and poignant.
Performance History
“Flowers on the Wall” has been performed by The Statler Brothers countless times and remains one of their most beloved songs. The group performed it at various award shows and concerts, solidifying its place in their repertoire. Notably, the song won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary (R&R) Performance – Group (Vocal or Instrumental) in 1966, cementing its status as a significant work in country music history.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extends beyond the realm of country music. It has been covered by various artists across different genres, including Eric Heatherly and Nancy Sinatra. “Flowers on the Wall” also made an appearance in the 1994 film “Pulp Fiction,” introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Its inclusion in the film’s soundtrack helped revive interest in the song and The Statler Brothers.
Legacy
“Flowers on the Wall” remains an enduring classic in the country music genre. Its clever lyrics, catchy melody, and The Statler Brothers’ harmonious performance continue to resonate with audiences. The song’s ability to blend humor with a deeper commentary on loneliness ensures its relevance even today. It stands as a testament to The Statler Brothers’ talent and their contribution to country music.
Conclusion
“Flowers on the Wall” is a timeless piece that captures the essence of The Statler Brothers’ music. Its blend of humor, catchy tunes, and poignant lyrics make it a must-listen for any music enthusiast. I highly recommend exploring the song further, especially the original recording by The Statler Brothers, to fully appreciate its charm and significance.
Video
Lyrics
I keep hearin’ you’re concerned about my happiness
But all that thought you’re givin’ me is conscience I guess
If I were walkin’ in your shoes, I wouldn’t worry none
While you and your friends are worried about me, I’m havin’ lots of fun
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Last night I dressed in tails, pretended I was on the town
As long as I can dream it’s hard to slow this swinger down
So please don’t give a thought to me, I’m really doin’ fine
You can always find me here, I’m havin’ quite a time
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
It’s good to see you, I must go, I know I look a fright
Anyway my eyes are not accustomed to this light
And my shoes are not accustomed to this hard concrete
So I must go back to my room and make my day complete
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do