About The Song

In the tapestry of American music, few voices resonate with the timeless quality of Patsy Cline. Her distinctive contralto, imbued with both vulnerability and strength, continues to captivate listeners decades after her untimely passing. While hits like “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” and “Walkin’ After Midnight” remain staples of classic country radio, delving into her deeper cuts reveals hidden gems that showcase the breadth of her artistry. One such gem is “When I Get Through With You,” a track that offers a fascinating glimpse into the less-explored facets of Cline’s musical persona.

Released during her brief but impactful career, “When I Get Through With You” isn’t a song of heartbreak or longing, the emotions so often associated with Cline. Instead, it presents a more assertive, almost playful side. The song’s narrative centers on a woman who has been wronged and is now determined to turn the tables. It’s not a vengeful anthem, but rather a declaration of self-assuredness and resilience. The lyrics, while straightforward, possess a subtle wit that allows listeners to connect with the narrator’s sense of empowerment. It’s a “take no prisoners” attitude wrapped in a catchy, toe-tapping melody.

Musically, “When I Get Through With You” embodies the classic Nashville sound of the late 1950s and early 1960s. The instrumentation is traditional, featuring prominent steel guitar, honky-tonk piano, and a steady rhythm section that provides a solid foundation for Cline’s vocals. The arrangement is clean and uncluttered, allowing her voice to take center stage. This was a hallmark of the “Nashville Sound,” a production style that aimed to broaden the appeal of country music by incorporating smoother arrangements and pop sensibilities.

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What makes “When I Get Through With You” particularly interesting within Patsy Cline’s discography is its departure from the more melancholic themes that often defined her biggest hits. While she was undoubtedly a master of conveying heartbreak and vulnerability, this song demonstrates her ability to inhabit a different emotional space. It reveals a more confident, even sassy side to her artistic persona. This versatility is a testament to her talent as an interpreter of song. She didn’t just sing the notes; she embodied the characters and emotions within the lyrics.

For listeners familiar with Cline’s more famous ballads, “When I Get Through With You” offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a reminder that her musical range extended beyond the realm of tearful laments. This song is a testament to her ability to deliver a performance with both charm and conviction. It’s a fun, upbeat track that showcases her versatility and her ability to connect with listeners on a more playful level. This is why it remains a cherished track for die-hard fans and a worthwhile discovery for those looking to delve deeper into the rich catalog of Patsy Cline. It’s a small but significant piece of the puzzle that helps us understand the full scope of her talent and enduring legacy. While not as widely recognized as some of her other work, “When I Get Through With You” is a valuable addition to the collection of any true country music aficionado.

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Lyric

You think you love SueBut when I get through with youYou won’t ever look at Sue again
I’m gonna be so good to youI’m gonna love you my whole life throughPretty soon you’ll feel the sameYou won’t even know her nameI’ll give ya kisses that she can’t beatI’ll treat you so nice and sweetWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me too, not SueWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me too
I’m gonna treat you so sweet and kindI’ll drive her right outta your mindAnd you won’t know her if you meetWalk right by her on the streetBecause I want you and need you soPoor Susie will have to goWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me too, not SueWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me too
I’m gonna be so good to youI’ll love you my whole life throughPretty soon you’ll feel the sameYou won’t even know her nameI’ll give you kisses that she can’t beatI’ll treat you so nice and sweetWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me true, not SueWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me true, not SueWhen I get through with youYou’ll love me true, not SueWhen I get through with you