Tennessee Waltz
Cassandra Wilson Lyrics


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I was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz
When an old friend, I happened to see
I introduced him to my loved one and while they were dancing
My friend stole my sweetheart from me

I remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz
Only you know how much I have lost
Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing
That beautiful Tennessee Waltz





Overall Meaning

The song "Tennessee Waltz" is a mournful ballad about losing love to a friend, set against the backdrop of a beloved dance form. The lyrics describe the singer dancing with their lover to the gentle, flowing rhythm of the Tennessee Waltz when they spot an old friend. As they introduce the friend to their partner, the singer watches in horror as their friend steals their sweetheart away. The lyrics lament the loss of the singer's love, which they remember vividly every time they hear the Tennessee Waltz.


The song's lyrics capture the bittersweet nostalgia that can accompany cherished memories of places, people, and experiences. The Tennessee Waltz, a dance style that originated in the southern United States, takes center stage in the lyrics, serving as a poignant symbol of the singer's lost love. This juxtaposition of joyous dance and heartbreaking loss creates a powerful emotional effect, drawing the listener into the singer's raw, honest emotion.


Line by Line Meaning

I was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz
Amidst the melodies of the Tennessee Waltz, I was sharing an intimate dance with my beloved.


When an old friend, I happened to see
At that moment, an old acquaintance of mine caught my attention.


I introduced him to my loved one and while they were dancing
Out of courtesy, I presented my friend to my dear one and they began to dance together.


My friend stole my sweetheart from me
To my dismay, my companion betrayed me and eloped with my beloved.


I remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz
Ever so vividly, the night of the Tennessee Waltz remains etched in my memory.


Only you know how much I have lost
This heartbreak is one that only you, the song, can understand, for it is immeasurable.


Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing
Alas, the night of the Tennessee Waltz was the very one on which I lost the love of my life.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Redd Stewart, Pee Wee King

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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