“Tears for Two” by Dwight Yoakam

Those of you who know me or follow my blog know that I’ve never been the biggest fan of modern country music. Notice I said modern. I have a fondness for the older recordings of Jimmie Rodgers, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline etc. but aside from the lyrics (the genre is home to some of the finest lyrics ever), I find modern country music predictable, sterile, often lacking honesty or soul. 

One clear exception is Dwight Yoakam. My first real exposure to him wasn’t through his music, but as Doyle Hargraves, a heel of a character from the 1996 film Sling Blade. He was memorable in the role, sparked an interest, and I went back to see what all my modern country music loving friends were talking about. I was surprised to find an old school country artist being suffocated under all that sheen and slick production.
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“Tears for Two” is a song he co-wrote with Holly Lamar and is from the soundtrack to his 2001 film South of Heaven, West of Hell. Both the film and album were panned by critics, but this little number showcases his talents as a songwriter, musician, and vocalist. If you who hate modern country music this is a great introductory track, and if you always liked him this is one that flew under the radar.