The Meaning Behind The Song: That’s How I Got To Memphis by Tom T. Hall
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| That’s How I Got To Memphis | Tom T. Hall | Tom T. Hall | Ballad Of Forty Dollars And His Other Great Songs (1969) |
Tom T. Hall’s “That’s How I Got To Memphis” is a heartfelt ballad that explores the lengths one would go to for love. The song, released in 1969 as part of Hall’s album “Ballad Of Forty Dollars And His Other Great Songs,” tells a story of a devoted lover who travels to Memphis in search of a lost love.
In the first verse, Hall introduces the idea that love can lead us to follow someone to any destination. He sings, “If you love somebody enough, you’ll follow wherever they go.” This simple line sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing the power of love and its ability to motivate actions.
The repetition of the chorus, “That’s how I got to Memphis,” reinforces the idea that love serves as a driving force. It becomes evident that the protagonist’s journey to Memphis is driven solely by his love for this person who has captured his heart. The second verse reaffirms this sentiment with the lyrics, “If you love somebody enough, you’ll go where your heart wants to go.”
The bridge of the song introduces the importance of friendship and the support system that can aid in one’s quest for love. Hall acknowledges the role of a friend who has potentially seen the lost love and implores them to reveal any information to help him find her. He sings, “I know if you’d seen her, you’d tell me ’cause you are my friend. I’ve got to find her and find out the trouble she’s in.”
The third verse further depicts the protagonist’s determination as he pledges to follow the trail of her tears if she is not present in Memphis. The emotional intensity continues to build, showcasing the depth of his feelings. The lyrics, “If you tell me that she’s not here, I’ll follow the trail of her tears,” highlight the protagonist’s unwavering commitment.
In the fourth verse, Hall adds another layer to the story. The lost love had mentioned returning to Memphis someday, which serves as the catalyst for the protagonist’s journey. He muses, “She would get mad, and she used to say that she’d come back to Memphis someday.” This line reveals that their connection is not entirely severed, giving the protagonist hope and purpose.
The fifth verse portrays the protagonist’s state of despair and dedication to his search. He confesses that he hasn’t eaten or slept for three days and nights, underscoring the intensity of his emotions. His hunger and sleeplessness further emphasize the depths to which he is willing to go for love.
The bridge resurfaces, emphasizing his need to find her and express his love. He sings, “I’ve got to find her and tell her that I love her so. I’ll never rest ’til I find out why she had to go.” These lines encapsulate the desperation and longing felt by the protagonist. The imagery of him searching relentlessly supports the theme of unconditional love.
As the song concludes, Hall expresses gratitude to the listener, acknowledging the vulnerability experienced when sharing personal emotions. He states, “Thank you for your precious time. Forgive me if I start to cryin’.” These final lines reveal the authenticity and emotional weight behind the lyrics.
Personally, “That’s How I Got To Memphis” holds a special place in my heart. The rawness of the lyrics and the soulful delivery by Tom T. Hall resonate deeply. Listening to this song reminds me of past experiences where I, too, have gone to great lengths to chase love.
There is something universally relatable about the lengths we will go to for love. Whether it’s physically following someone to a new city or emotionally committing ourselves to someone who is physically absent, the song captures the emotional essence of love. It serves as a reminder that love is not always logical or convenient, but it is something worth pursuing.
In conclusion, Tom T. Hall’s “That’s How I Got To Memphis” is a poignant ballad that delves into the depth of love and dedication. Through rich storytelling and emotionally charged lyrics, Hall captures the essence of love’s transformative power. We can all relate to the protagonist’s journey and the lengths we would go to for love.
