Lynn was born in Butcher Hollow, Van Lear, Kentucky in 1932. According to Songfacts, Loretta Lynn's superstar Country career started in 1960 when she recorded " I'm a Honky Tonk Girl " as her debut single. The song was a minor hit, climbing to #14 on Billboard's C&W Chart. By the late 1960s she had begun picking up various Female Vocalist of the Year trophies and in 1972 the singer became the first woman in history to win the Country Music Association's Entertainer of the Year trophy. Lynn dominated the Country charts throughout the rest of the decade and has continued to record hit records through the ensuing years. Her 50th anniversary year began with the award of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement on January 31, 2010.
Lynn released over 70 albums. She is the sister of country singer Crystal Gayle (born in Paintsville, Kentucky) and Peggy Sue, and is a cousin of Patty Loveless. Her father was a coal miner in Van Lear. Her biography was made into the 1980 film, Coal Miner's Daughter.
Why Me
Loretta Lynn Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
To deserve even one
Of the pleasures I've known
Tell me Lord, what did I ever do
That was worth loving you
Or the kindness you've shown.
Lord help me Jesus, I've wasted it so
Now that I know that I've need you so
Help me Jesus, my soul's in your hand.
Tell me Lord, if you think there's a way
I can try to repay
All I've taken from you
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else
What I've been through myself
On my way back to you.
Lord help me Jesus, I've wasted it so
Help me Jesus I know what I am
Now that I know that I've need you so
Help me Jesus, my soul's in your hand.
Loretta Lynn's song "Why Me" is a poignant and introspective track that wrestles with the question of why the singer has been blessed with so much in life, despite her own shortcomings. The lyrics begin with a humble plea to God, asking why the singer has been so fortunate and undeserving of such blessings. She goes on to question if there was anything that she had ever done that would merit such great kindness from God.
The second verse speaks of the singer's guilt and regret for squandering the gifts God has given her. The lyrics then transition into a prayer of repentance, where the singer implores Jesus to help her find her way back to Him. She acknowledges that her soul is in His hands and that she needs His help to set things right.
Overall, the song is a tender and moving conversation between the singer and her God, asking for guidance and forgiveness. It's a beautiful expression of human frailty and the struggle for redemption.
Line by Line Meaning
Why me Lord, what have I ever done
Lord, why have you blessed me with so much, when I may not have done anything to truly deserve it?
To deserve even one
To deserve even a single one of the many pleasures I have experienced.
Of the pleasures I've known
Of the many blessings and joys I have been fortunate enough to experience in my life.
Tell me Lord, what did I ever do
Please tell me, Lord, what actions or qualities of mine led to your love and kindness towards me.
That was worth loving you
That made me worthy of your love and the many ways you have shown your goodness to me.
Or the kindness you've shown.
Or the many acts of kindness and mercy you have bestowed upon me.
Lord help me Jesus, I've wasted it so
Lord, please help me, for I have not always made good use of the many blessings you have given me.
Help me Jesus I know what I am
I recognize my own weaknesses and failings, and know that I am not perfect but in need of your guidance.
Now that I know that I've need you so
After realizing my own weaknesses and shortcomings, I have come to understand how much I need you in my life, Lord.
Help me Jesus, my soul's in your hand.
Lord, I entrust my very soul to your care, asking for your help and guidance as I navigate life's challenges and opportunities.
Tell me Lord, if you think there's a way
Lord, please tell me if there is anything I can do to repay you for all the blessings you have given me.
I can try to repay
I would be willing to do whatever I can to show my gratitude for your goodness and provision.
All I've taken from you
All the many blessings and joys you have given me over the course of my life.
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else
Perhaps I can use my own experiences to encourage and help others facing similar challenges or struggles.
What I've been through myself
The difficulties and hardships I have faced, as well as the joys and blessings I have experienced, as evidence of your faithfulness and goodness.
On my way back to you.
As I journey through life, Lord, guide me always toward you and help me to remain faithful and grateful.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: KRIS KRISTOFFERSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Phyllis Ariail
I heard this for song for first time why me Lord about a week ago it helps with my depression o I listen to it at least once a day I believe I was meant to find it just when I needed it
Brenda Johnson
I know you replied two years ago but I just saw it. I hope you're doing better. 🙏
Joseph Patero
Loretta is perfect for this song Thank you Joe
SuzDramaQueen1
One of Kris' most moving songs and Loretta did an amazing job on this song! Thanks for sharing.
Leeroy Ittu
One of my favorite all time classic songs by Loretta Lynn.
Melody Waterman
Loretta sings this hymn so beautifully. Thank you for sharing this with me Jamie.
vincent maldon
Absolutely beautiful rendition. Thanks for uploading.
deocomaur latchman
I love ALL her songs, mostly the gospels.
Colin Date
I heard this when I was very little and was so sad, but know it's brings me a lot of comfort. The you Lord
Patsy Monzello
This is a very special song to me! Praise God!