Lefty Frizzell – Look What Thoughts Will Do

About the song

A Country Music Classic: Lefty Frizzell’s “Look What Thoughts Will Do”

In the annals of country music, few names resonate with the enduring legacy of Lefty Frizzell. A true pioneer of the genre, Frizzell’s distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting captured the hearts of millions, earning him a place among the country music elite. Among his many enduring classics, “Look What Thoughts Will Do” stands out as a poignant ballad that explores the complexities of love, loss, and the power of memory.

Released in 1950, “Look What Thoughts Will Do” quickly ascended to the upper echelons of the country charts, cementing Frizzell’s status as a rising star. The song’s melancholic melody and Frizzell’s emotive vocals paint a vivid picture of a heartbroken soul grappling with the lingering pain of a lost love. The lyrics, penned by Frizzell himself, are a poignant tapestry of regret and longing, capturing the universal emotions that transcend time and place.

As the song unfolds, Frizzell’s protagonist laments the cruel twist of fate that has led his love away. He relives the shared moments of joy and tenderness, only to be met with the harsh reality of their separation. The chorus serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of unchecked thoughts, as Frizzell cautions against dwelling on the past:

“If within your future years, your love should bring you tears, then you’ll think of me I’m sure, but those thoughts won’t help you dear.”

Despite the heartache, Frizzell’s lyrics also hint at a glimmer of hope, suggesting that the memories they shared will forever hold a special place in their hearts. The song’s poignant conclusion underscores the enduring nature of love and the indelible mark it leaves on our souls:

“So we’ll just forget the deal, so goodbye and here’s to you, and I’m happy through and through, yes you thought that I’d be blue, but just look what thoughts will do.”

“Look What Thoughts Will Do” is more than just a country song; it’s a timeless testament to the enduring power of love and the profound impact it has on our lives. Frizzell’s masterful songwriting and heartfelt delivery have cemented the song’s place as a cherished classic, ensuring that its message of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit will continue to resonate with listeners for generations to come.

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Lyrics

“Look What Thoughts Will Do”

 

Once I thought I loved just you
And I thought you loved me too
But just look what thoughts will do
For today you say we’re through

Now another wears the crown
And you think that you have found
Just what makes your world go round
Watch those thoughts they’ll get you down

If within your future years
Your new love should bring you tears
Then you’ll think of me I’m sure
But those thoughts won’t help you, dear

Thought I’d build a home for two
Just a home for me and you
Thought we’d have some kiddies too
But just look what thoughts will do

Now I know just how you feel
That your love was never real
Guess to you I don’t appeal
So we’ll just forget the deal

So goodbye and here’s to you
And I’m happy through and through
Yes, you thought that I’d be blue
But just look what thoughts will do