Introduction:
“Blue Side of Town,” a staple in Patty Loveless’s repertoire, is more than just a catchy country tune; it’s a testament to her dedication to authentic, heartfelt music. Released in October 1988, it served as the lead single from her acclaimed album, “Honky Tonk Angel.” The song, penned by Paul Kennerley and Hank DeVito, captures the essence of traditional country music, weaving a narrative of heartbreak and the longing that accompanies it.
What’s particularly interesting about “Blue Side of Town” is its journey to Loveless’s recording. She had acquired the recording rights to the song back in 1985, demonstrating her early recognition of its power. However, it wasn’t until the “Honky Tonk Angel” album that she brought it to life, showcasing her patience and artistic vision.
The song’s success on the charts solidified Loveless’s rising prominence in the country music scene. It spent 22 weeks on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, peaking at number four in January 1989. This achievement highlighted her ability to connect with audiences through her raw and emotive vocal delivery.
Furthermore, the production of the “Honky Tonk Angel” album, and therefore “Blue Side of Town”, included some very well respected Nashville session players. Information from sources, give indication to the quality of the musicians, and the production that went into the recording. This adds to the songs overall quality.