About The Song
The Statler Brothers: “Susan When She Tried.” Released in 1975, this song offers a poignant and empathetic look at the complexities of life, failure, and the quiet dignity of resilience. It’s a departure from some of their more overtly patriotic or romantic ballads, delving into the personal struggles of an individual with a sensitivity that is both moving and thought-provoking. For those of us who appreciate narratives that explore the nuances of the human experience, this song offers a compelling and relatable portrait.
What makes “Susan When She Tried” so captivating is its understated yet powerful storytelling. The lyrics, primarily penned by Don Reid, paint a vivid picture of a woman facing adversity, grappling with life’s challenges, and ultimately, demonstrating a quiet strength in her attempts to overcome them. It’s not a story of grand triumphs, but rather a testament to the courage found in simply trying, even in the face of repeated setbacks. This resonates deeply with the realities many of us face, where progress isn’t always linear and resilience is often found in the quiet acts of perseverance.
The musical arrangement, while still bearing the hallmark harmonies of The Statler Brothers, carries a slightly more melancholic tone. The gentle melody and the unhurried pace of the song allow the listener to fully absorb the narrative and connect with Susan’s journey. The harmonies, while always beautiful, here serve to underscore the emotional weight of the story, adding a layer of empathy and understanding to her struggles.
Consider the context of the mid-1970s. While known for their more upbeat country hits, The Statler Brothers also demonstrated a keen ability to tackle more serious and introspective themes. “Susan When She Tried” showcases this versatility, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges. It’s a reminder that country music, at its heart, is often about telling stories – stories of love, loss, hardship, and hope.
The brilliance of the song lies in its compassionate and non-judgmental portrayal of Susan. The lyrics don’t offer easy answers or quick fixes; instead, they simply present her struggles with a sense of understanding and respect. Phrases like “Susan, when she tried, Lord, she tried” repeated throughout the song emphasize her effort and her determination, even when faced with what might seem like insurmountable odds. It’s an acknowledgment of the human spirit’s inherent desire to strive and to overcome.
The Statler Brothers were masters of character-driven songs, and “Susan When She Tried” is a prime example of this. They had a knack for creating relatable characters whose experiences resonated with their audience. Susan isn’t a larger-than-life figure; she’s an ordinary person facing ordinary (and perhaps not-so-ordinary) challenges. This relatability is what gives the song its enduring power. It reminds us that everyone faces difficulties, and that there is a quiet dignity in the effort to keep trying.
Furthermore, the song’s impact lies in its subtle message of hope. While Susan’s struggles are evident, the emphasis on her attempts suggests a belief in the possibility of eventual success or at least in the inherent worth of the effort itself. It’s a message that resonates with anyone who has faced setbacks and found the strength to keep going.
“Susan When She Tried” is a testament to The Statler Brothers‘ ability to craft nuanced and empathetic narratives. It’s a song that goes beyond simple entertainment, offering a thoughtful reflection on resilience, perseverance, and the quiet courage of the human spirit. Through their signature harmonies and heartfelt storytelling, they created a poignant portrait of a woman facing life’s challenges with determination. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the act of trying itself holds a certain kind of dignity and hope. This song remains a powerful and moving example of their storytelling prowess and their ability to connect with the deeper aspects of the human experience.
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Lyric
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I got over Charlotte Thompson, Goldie Johnson,Lord they done me wrongI took it hard with Peggy HarperShe hurt me bad, but not for longThere’s just one I rememberMakes me feel funny down insideI’d trade ’em all for just one hourOf Susan when she triedNo there’s never been a womanWho could make me weak insideAnd give me what I neededLike Susan when she triedIt gets worse in the summerWhen the nights are hot and longAnd it’s bad in DecemberWhen they play those Christmas songsSo if you ask me and I don’t tell youBet your sweet bottom dollar I liedCause there’s never been one betterThan Susan when she tried