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Hank Williams – Your Cheatin’ Heart – 1953

About The Song

“Your Cheatin’ Heart” is a classic country song by Hank Williams, released in 1953. It is one of Williams’ most well-known and enduring compositions. Here are five facts about “Your Cheatin’ Heart”:

  1. Release and Success: “Your Cheatin’ Heart” was released posthumously in January 1953, shortly after Hank Williams passed away on January 1, 1953. Despite his untimely death, the song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the country charts.
  2. Songwriting Credits: Hank Williams wrote “Your Cheatin’ Heart” in 1952, drawing inspiration from his tumultuous relationship with his first wife, Audrey Williams. The song reflects the pain and heartbreak of infidelity.
  3. Musical Style: The song is a classic example of honky-tonk country, featuring twangy guitars, a steady rhythm, and Williams’ distinctive vocal delivery. It has become an archetype of traditional country music.
  4. Legacy: “Your Cheatin’ Heart” is considered one of Hank Williams’ signature songs and is a country music standard. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Ray Charles, Patsy Cline, and Elvis Presley.
  5. Posthumous Album: The song was part of the posthumous album “Hank Williams as Luke the Drifter,” released in 1953. The album featured a collection of songs that showcased a more philosophical and storytelling side of Williams, as opposed to his more upbeat honky-tonk numbers.

Video

Lyrics

Your cheatin’ heart will make you weep
You’ll cry and cry and try to sleep
But sleep won’t come the whole night through
Your cheatin’ heart will tell on you

When tears come down like fallin’ rain
You’ll toss around and call my name
You’ll walk the floor the way I do
Your cheatin’ heart will tell on you

Your cheatin’ heart will pine someday
And crave the love you threw away
The time will come when you’ll be blue
Your cheatin’ heart will tell on you

When tears come down like fallin’ rain
You’ll toss around and call my name
You’ll walk the floor the way I do
Your cheatin’ heart will tell on you