About the song
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” is a significant album in the illustrious career of American country music icon Tammy Wynette. Released in July 1968 under Epic Records, this album not only highlights Wynette’s extraordinary vocal prowess but also cements her status as one of the leading voices in country music. The album comprises 11 tracks, including both new compositions and cover tunes, demonstrating Wynette’s versatility as an artist.
The title track, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, was brought to Wynette’s attention by her producer, Billy Sherrill. Wynette, who deeply resonated with the song, once remarked, “I hated myself for not writing that song. It fit my life completely.” This single became her fourth number one song on the North American country charts in 1968, solidifying her growing popularity and success. The album itself also reached the top of the American country LP’s chart in 1968, marking a milestone in Wynette’s career.
The album was recorded over a span of three days, from March 22 to March 25, 1968, at the Columbia Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. All sessions were meticulously produced by Billy Sherrill, a key figure in Wynette’s career. Alongside the title track, the album features five new recordings, including “All Night Long,” “Come on Home,” “When There’s a Fire in Your Heart,” and an answer song to Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey.” The remaining tracks are cover tunes, showcasing Wynette’s ability to reinterpret popular hits with her unique style. These covers include The Beatles’ “Yesterday,” Ronnie Dove’s “Kiss Away,” Patsy Cline’s “Sweet Dreams,” Glen Campbell’s “Gentle on My Mind,” and Andy Williams’ “Lonely Street.”
Upon its release, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” received critical acclaim. Billboard magazine praised Wynette’s vocal delivery, stating, “Tammy Wynette sings with feeling and power like no other, and this latest LP offering is sure to be much in demand by her numerous fans.” Years later, Greg Adams of AllMusic awarded the album a 4.5-star rating, noting, “The vocal performances are excellent even on the more disposable material, and although nothing here approaches the level of the title track, the album is ultimately rewarding for those whose interest in Wynette extends beyond her greatest hits.”
The album’s success was not limited to critical acclaim. Three months after its release, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” reached the number one spot on the American Billboard Country LP’s chart, becoming Wynette’s first album to top the chart. The title track, released as a single in April 1968, topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart two months later and also reached number 63 on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, it topped Canada’s RPM Country chart, further showcasing Wynette’s international appeal.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” remains a landmark album in Tammy Wynette’s career, reflecting her emotional depth, vocal talent, and ability to connect with her audience. It is a testament to her enduring legacy in the world of country music.
Video
Lyrics
Our little boy is four years old and quite a little man
So we spell out the words we don’t want him to understand
Like T-O-Y or maybe S-U-R-P-R-I-S-E
But the words we’re hiding from him now
Tear the heart right out of me
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be going away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E-double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E
Watch him smile, he thinks it’s Christmas or his fifth birthday
And he thinks C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurting words
And turn my head when I speak
‘Cause I can’t spell away this hurt that’s drippin’ down my cheek
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be going away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E-double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E