About the song
“You Win Again” by Jerry Lee Lewis is a poignant and soulful rendition of a classic country ballad that highlights the emotional depth and versatility of this rock and roll pioneer. The song, originally written by the legendary Hank Williams, was covered by Jerry Lee Lewis and released in 1957 as a B-side to his hit single “Great Balls of Fire.” Despite being the flip side of a more upbeat track, “You Win Again” showcased a different, more reflective side of Lewis’s musical talents.
The song tells a story of heartache and betrayal, with lyrics that convey the pain of a man who has been wronged by a loved one but remains resigned to their enduring power over him. Lines like “But someday, you’ll be sorry” and “I’ll still love you, baby” capture the complexity of emotions involved in loving someone who repeatedly hurts you. This theme of unrequited love and sorrow struck a chord with many listeners, making “You Win Again” a memorable and relatable ballad.
Jerry Lee Lewis’s interpretation of “You Win Again” is marked by his distinctive vocal style, imbued with a blend of melancholy and resilience. His piano accompaniment, while more subdued than his usual fiery performances, adds a haunting quality to the song, enhancing its emotional impact. The stripped-down arrangement allows Lewis’s voice and the song’s poignant lyrics to take center stage, demonstrating his ability to convey deep emotion through music.
While “You Win Again” did not achieve the same commercial success as some of Jerry Lee Lewis’s more upbeat tracks, it remains a beloved piece in his repertoire. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Country Singles chart, showing its strong appeal among country music fans. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless nature of both Hank Williams’s songwriting and Jerry Lee Lewis’s heartfelt performance.
For older listeners, “You Win Again” may evoke memories of a time when country and rock and roll were intersecting, creating new musical landscapes. For newer audiences, it offers a glimpse into the breadth of Jerry Lee Lewis’s artistic range and his ability to interpret songs with profound emotional depth. “You Win Again” stands as a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted song and a heartfelt performance, reminding us of the universal themes of love, loss, and resilience.
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Lyrics
The news is out all over town
That you’ve been seen out runnin’ around
I know that I should leave, but then
I just can’t go
You win again
This heart of mine could never see
What everybody knows but me
Just trusting you was my great sin
What can I do?
You win again
Yes, this heart of mine could never see
What everybody knows but me
Just trusting you was my great sin
What can I do?
You win again