About the song
Bobbie Gentry’s “He Made a Woman Out of Me”: A Southern Soul Classic
Bobbie Gentry, the enigmatic singer-songwriter who burst onto the music scene in the late 1960s, crafted a unique blend of country, folk, and pop that resonated with audiences far and wide. Among her most enduring hits is “He Made a Woman Out of Me,” a poignant ballad released in 1970 as part of her album Fancy.
The song is a masterclass in storytelling, painting a vivid picture of a young woman’s coming of age in the rural South. Gentry’s rich, soulful vocals and the sparse, yet evocative instrumentation create an intimate atmosphere that draws listeners into the narrative. The lyrics, co-written by Gentry with Donald Hill and Fred Burch, explore themes of love, loss, and personal transformation in a way that is both universal and deeply personal.
“He Made a Woman Out of Me” is more than just a love song. It’s a coming-of-age tale that delves into the complexities of female identity and the transformative power of relationships. The narrator, having grown up with little formal education, finds herself deeply changed by the love she experiences. The song’s title is both literal and figurative, suggesting that her lover has not only awakened her sexuality but has also helped her to discover a new sense of self.
Musically, the track is grounded in the country and folk traditions that Gentry was so drawn to. The gentle acoustic guitar and subtle pedal steel create a warm, inviting soundscape, while the sparse drums provide a steady pulse. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Gentry’s vocals to take center stage.
“He Made a Woman Out of Me” was a commercial success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1970. The song has since become a staple of classic country radio and has been covered by numerous artists. Despite its age, the song remains as fresh and relevant today as it was when it was first released.
Gentry’s ability to connect with her audience on a deeply emotional level is one of the reasons why her music continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. “He Made a Woman Out of Me” is a timeless masterpiece that showcases her talent as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller.
Key elements to consider when listening to this song:
- Storytelling: Pay attention to the narrative and how Gentry uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of her life.
- Vocals: Listen to the emotion and nuance in Gentry’s vocals.
- Instrumentation: Notice how the simple yet effective instrumentation contributes to the overall mood of the song.
- Lyrics: Analyze the lyrics for deeper meanings and symbolism.
Video
Lyrics
I was born on a levee
A little bit south of Montgom’ry
Mama worked in the big house
And Daddy he worked for the county
I never had no learnin’ until I turned 16
When Joe Henry come up the river, y’all
Lord, made a woman outta me (Yes, he did)
Lord, he made a woman outta me (yeah)
I used to tease Joe Henry
I guess it served me right
Wasn’t long ’til he left me
Cryin’ out in the night
Joe Henry had his say
He went and set me free
I need tell everybody
That the man made a woman outta me
Lord, he made a woman outta me (yeah)
When I think back to that day so long ago
III get a little feelin’ on my mind
Although it hurt me there’s one thing I know
When he left, he left him a woman behind
(Behind)
When I meet another young man
Wantin’ to love and run (yeah)
My mind goes back to Joe Henry James
And the heck of a job he done (Uh, huh)
Ain’t no other man let me down
You see I’ve been set free
Ever since way back yonder
When Joe made a woman outta me (Yes, he did)
Lord, he made a woman outta me
(He made a woman)
Made a woman outta me (yeah)
Joe made a woman outta me (Uh huh huh)
Lord, he made a woman outta me (Yes, he did)
Joe made a woman outta me (He made a woman)
Lord, he made a woman outta me
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