About The Song
“The golden age of American popular music boasts a constellation of unforgettable voices, and among them, the luminous presence of Patsy Cline shines with a unique brilliance. While often celebrated for her countrypolitan hits that blurred genre lines, exploring her earlier work reveals a fascinating evolution in her sound. One such example is “That Wonderful Someone,” a song that offers a glimpse into the formative stages of her career and showcases her remarkable ability to infuse even the simplest melodies with profound emotion.
Released in 1957, “That Wonderful Someone” stands apart from Cline’s later, more polished recordings. It’s a simpler production, more in line with the traditional country and gospel influences of the time. This stripped-down arrangement, however, allows Cline’s vocal delivery to take center stage, highlighting the raw power and sincerity that would become her trademarks. The song, written by Gertrude Burg, presents a message of hope and faith, praising a divine figure—”that wonderful someone”—who provides comfort and guidance.
The lyrics of “That Wonderful Someone” are straightforward yet evocative. They paint a picture of a benevolent presence who is responsible for the beauty of the natural world, from the shining stars to the blooming flowers. The song speaks of this “someone” as a source of solace in times of trouble, a constant companion who hears every prayer. Lines like “That wonderful Someone / Who makes the stars all shine / Who fashioned the mountains / To reach to the sky” evoke a sense of awe and reverence, celebrating the power and majesty of the divine.
While the lyrics are overtly religious, the song’s message of hope and comfort transcends specific religious doctrines. It speaks to a universal human desire for connection and meaning, a longing for something greater than oneself. This universality is perhaps one of the reasons why “That Wonderful Someone” continues to resonate with listeners today.
Patsy Cline‘s interpretation of “That Wonderful Someone” is what truly elevates the song. Even in these early recordings, her distinctive vocal style is evident. She delivers the lyrics with a heartfelt sincerity, imbuing each word with a palpable sense of faith and conviction. Her phrasing is impeccable, and her tone is warm and inviting, drawing the listener into the song’s message of hope. There’s a gentle quality to her performance, a quiet reverence that perfectly complements the song’s spiritual themes.
It’s important to consider the context in which “That Wonderful Someone” was released. The late 1950s was a time of both prosperity and anxiety in America. The post-war boom was underway, but the Cold War loomed, and social tensions were simmering. In this climate, songs that offered spiritual comfort and reassurance held a particular appeal. “That Wonderful Someone” provided a sense of solace and hope, reminding listeners that they were not alone.
While “That Wonderful Someone” may not be as widely known as Cline’s later crossover hits like “Crazy” or “I Fall to Pieces,” it offers a valuable insight into her artistic development. It showcases her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level, even with relatively simple material. It also demonstrates the breadth of her musical influences, drawing from both country and gospel traditions.
“That Wonderful Someone” is more than just a forgotten track in Patsy Cline‘s discography. It’s a testament to her enduring talent, a reminder of the power of music to provide comfort and inspiration. It’s a song that speaks to the human spirit’s innate yearning for connection and meaning, delivered with the unmistakable warmth and sincerity of Patsy Cline‘s unforgettable voice.
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Lyric
That wonderful SomeoneWho makes the stars all shineWho fashioned the mountainsTo reach to the skyWho brings each tomorrowWho hears every prayerIn sunshine or sorrowIf you call He’ll be thereThat wonderful SomeoneWho makes the flowers growWho paints ev’ry sunsetWith colors that glowLook all around youAnd these wonders you’ll seeDesigned by that SomeoneFor you and for meThat wonderful SomeoneWho makes the flowers growWho paints every sunsetWith colors that glowLook all around youAnd these wonders you’ll seeDesigned by that SomeoneFor you and for me…