About The Song
In the realm of country music, there are few names that resonate with the same power and recognition as Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn. Individually, they were icons, trailblazers, and legends who shaped the sound and soul of the genre. But when they came together, their voices intertwined to create a magic that transcended the boundaries of time and genre. “Back Street Affair” stands as a testament to their enduring legacy, a duet that has captivated audiences for generations with its poignant lyrics, heartfelt melodies, and the undeniable chemistry between the two vocal giants.
Released in 1972, “Back Street Affair” was the title track of Twitty and Lynn’s second collaborative album. The song, penned by Billy Wallace and Jimmy Rule, delves into the complexities of a forbidden love, a tale of two hearts drawn together despite the constraints of society and the disapproval of others. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their shared longing, the pain of secrecy, and the unwavering belief in the power of their love.
Twitty and Lynn’s voices intertwine like threads of a tapestry, each complementing and enhancing the other. Twitty’s rich, resonant baritone brings a depth of emotion to the narrative, while Lynn’s crystal-clear soprano adds a touch of vulnerability and yearning. Together, they weave a tapestry of sound that perfectly captures the essence of the song’s message.
“Back Street Affair” is more than just a duet; it’s a declaration of defiance, a testament to the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. The song’s message resonates with anyone who has ever experienced love that doesn’t fit neatly into societal norms, reminding us that love is a force to be reckoned with, a force that can transcend all boundaries and defy all odds.
The song’s impact on country music and popular culture is undeniable. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1972 and has since become a staple of country radio and a beloved classic among fans of all ages. “Back Street Affair” has been covered by numerous artists, including John Prine and Van Morrison, further solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece.
In a world that often tries to define and categorize love, “Back Street Affair” stands as a reminder that love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that defies easy labels. It’s a song that speaks to the heart, to the longing and desire that reside within each of us. It’s a song that celebrates the power of love to overcome obstacles and defy expectations. And it’s a song that has earned its place among the greatest country duets of all time.
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Lyric
You didn’t know I wasn’t free when you fell in love with meAnd with all your young heart you learned to careIt brought you shame and disgrace the world has tumbled in your placeFor they call our love a back street affairThey say you wrecked my home I’m a husband that’s gone wrongThey don’t know the sorrow that we have to bearFor the one that I’m tied to was the first to prove untrueYet they call our love a back street affair[ fiddle ]Sweetheart I always knew when I fell in love with youThe heartaches that we would have to bearI knew a call gets around and that all over townThey would call our love a back street affairThey say I wrecked your life and brought sorrow to your wifeThat I was just a girl who didn’t seem to careBut if they only knew how she slips around on youThey wouldn’t call our love a back street affairWhen the mist rolls away we’ll be free to love some dayAnd find happiness that we were made to shareWe’ll climb a mountain high and the world will hear us cryThat our love is not a back street affair