The Meaning Behind The Song: Heartaches by the Number by Guy Mitchell
Heartaches by the Number by Guy Mitchell is an incredibly popular country song that is loved around the world. But have you ever stopped to consider what the song is really about? In this article, we will dive deep into the meaning behind Heartaches by the Number and explore the emotions that the songwriter is trying to convey.
The Story Behind the Song
Heartaches by the Number was written by Harlan Howard in the late 1950s. At the time, Howard was working as a professional songwriter in Nashville, Tennessee. He wrote the song as a reflection on his own life experiences, and to highlight the universal struggles of love and heartbreak.
Howard was inspired to write Heartaches by the Number after listening to his son count aloud. He noticed that his son would often count up to nine or ten, then start back at one again. Howard thought that this was a brilliant metaphor for the endless cycle of heartbreak and emotional pain that we all go through in life.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics to Heartaches by the Number talk about a man who has experienced many heartaches in his life. He compares these heartaches to a collection of numbers, suggesting that they are just one of many experiences that make up the course of our lives.
The chorus of the song is particularly poignant. It talks about how the man has experienced “heartaches by the number, troubles by the score” but that he will keep moving forward regardless. This emphasises the idea that while heartbreak is difficult, it is also an important part of life. Without it, we would not grow and learn.
The song also touches on the idea of fate and destiny. Howard suggests that some things in life are simply meant to be, and that we cannot always control the outcome of our experiences. This adds a layer of complexity to the song, making it a powerful reflection on the human condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heartaches by the Number
1. Who originally wrote Heartaches by the Number?
Heartaches by the Number was written by Harlan Howard in the late 1950s.
2. What is the meaning behind the lyrics of Heartaches by the Number?
The lyrics to Heartaches by the Number talk about a man who has experienced many heartaches in his life. He compares these heartaches to a collection of numbers, suggesting that they are just one of many experiences that make up the course of our lives.
3. What inspired Harlan Howard to write Heartaches by the Number?
Harlan Howard was inspired to write Heartaches by the Number after listening to his son count aloud. He noticed that his son would often count up to nine or ten, then start back at one again. Howard thought that this was a brilliant metaphor for the endless cycle of heartbreak and emotional pain that we all go through in life.
4. What is the significance of the chorus in Heartaches by the Number?
The chorus of Heartaches by the Number talks about how the man has experienced “heartaches by the number, troubles by the score” but that he will keep moving forward regardless. This emphasises the idea that while heartbreak is difficult, it is also an important part of life. Without it, we would not grow and learn.
5. What is the message of Heartaches by the Number?
The message of Heartaches by the Number is that heartbreak is a universal experience that we all go through. However, this pain is what makes us stronger and helps us to grow as individuals.
6. Who has covered Heartaches by the Number?
Heartaches by the Number has been covered by many artists over the years, including Dwight Yoakam, Ray Price, and Johnny Tillotson.
7. Has Heartaches by the Number won any awards?
Heartaches by the Number has been nominated for several awards over the years, including the Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording in 1960.
8. How has Heartaches by the Number influenced other artists?
Heartaches by the Number is widely considered to be a classic country song and has had a significant influence on many other artists in the genre.
9. What is the significance of the metaphor of counting in Heartaches by the Number?
The metaphor of counting in Heartaches by the Number is meant to reflect the endless cycle of heartbreak and emotional pain that we all go through in life.
10. Is Heartaches by the Number a sad song?
Heartaches by the Number is certainly a song that deals with difficult, painful emotions. However, it is also a song that emphasises the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
11. What is the relationship between Heartaches by the Number and the country music genre?
Heartaches by the Number is widely considered to be a classic country song, and it has had a significant influence on the genre as a whole.
12. What can we learn from Heartaches by the Number?
Heartaches by the Number is a powerful reflection on the human condition and the difficult emotions that we all experience. By listening to and understanding this song, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of life and the importance of perseverance in the face of hardship.
