This 1999 country classic is a prime example of Strait’s enduring appeal. Released as the second single from his album Always Never the Same, it became a chart-topping success, solidifying his place as a giant of the genre.
Background
The song’s brilliance lies in its unhurried tempo and stripped-down instrumentation. A gentle acoustic guitar sets the stage, punctuated by subtle percussion and touches of piano. This allows Strait’s voice to take center stage, conveying a quiet urgency as he pleads with his lover to “Write This Down”.
The lyrics themselves are deceptively simple. Lines like “So you’ll remember what I forgot to say” and “Tell yourself I love you and I don’t want you to go” speak volumes.
They capture the vulnerability and fear of loss that can simmer beneath the surface of even the most secure relationships.
Strait, a master storyteller, doesn’t dwell on grand gestures or dramatic declarations. Instead, he focuses on the everyday moments, the things left unsaid in the hustle and bustle of life.
He reminds us that the most precious words – “I love you” – can easily go unspoken. The song is a gentle nudge, a heartfelt plea to cherish our loved ones and express our affection openly.
“Write This Down” also carries a touch of wistfulness. The line “Folks will be reading these words long after we’re gone, baby” hints at a timeless quality of love. It suggests that the act of expressing our feelings can transcend the limitations of time.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I never saw the end in sightFools are kind of blindThought everything was going alrightBut I was running out of time‘Cause you had one foot out the doorI swear I didn’t seeBut if you’re really going awayHere’s some final words from meBaby, write this downTake a little note to remind you in case you didn’t knowTell yourself I love you and I don’t want you to goWrite this downTake my words and read ’em every day, keep ’em close byDon’t you let ’em fade awaySo you’ll remember what I forgot to sayWrite this downI’ll sign it at the bottom of the pageI’ll swear under oath‘Cause every single word is trueAnd I think you need to knowSo use it as a bookmark, stick it on your ‘frigerator doorHang it in a picture frame up above the mantelWhere you’ll see it for sure
Harley