“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right,” a song recorded by the late country legend Keith Whitley, captures the feeling of rediscovered love with warmth and authenticity that has resonated with listeners for decades. Growing up in the rural countryside, I remember hearing this song on the radio, its gentle melody blending with the sounds of nature and evoking a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Keith Whitley’s voice has a way of making you feel like he’s singing directly to you, drawing from personal experiences to deliver genuine emotion. This song, though a lesser-known track in his career, holds a special place in the hearts of country music fans, as it beautifully highlights Whitley’s incredible ability to express tenderness and passion in every note.
About The Composition
- Title: Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right
- Composer: Keith Whitley
- Premiere Date: 1992 (posthumously released after Whitley’s death in 1989)
- Album: Kentucky Bluebird
- Genre: Country
Background
“Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” was released in 1992 as part of Whitley’s posthumous album Kentucky Bluebird. Although Whitley tragically passed away in 1989, his legacy lived on through his music, which continued to influence the country genre profoundly. This song, in particular, showcased his tender, heartfelt approach to storytelling, highlighting his softer side and romantic sensibilities. It was warmly received by fans, as it provided one last look into Whitley’s vocal artistry and sincere delivery. “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” holds a special place in Whitley’s repertoire as a celebration of love, which perhaps reflects his own feelings during his marriage to country singer Lorrie Morgan.
Musical Style
The song is quintessentially country, featuring a smooth blend of guitar, subtle piano, and Whitley’s unmistakable, emotive vocals. The instrumentation is simple but effective, allowing Whitley’s voice to take center stage. Its gentle tempo and melody evoke a sense of relaxation and contentment, with each instrument working harmoniously to emphasize the tenderness of the lyrics. The song’s structure follows a traditional verse-chorus format, but it’s Whitley’s unique vocal inflections and expressive phrasing that bring it to life, making it feel like a deeply personal love letter.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” revolve around the theme of love and appreciation. In the song, Whitley sings about a love that makes everything in life feel better, as though someone is finally doing things “right.” The lyrics, though simple, are heartfelt and relatable, perfectly capturing the joy and comfort of being loved genuinely. The words flow seamlessly with the melody, creating a calming, almost lullaby-like effect that speaks to the warmth and security of a solid relationship.
Performance History
Since its release, “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” has been performed by various country artists who admire Whitley’s contributions to the genre. His widow, Lorrie Morgan, has also included this song in some of her performances, offering it as a tribute to his memory. While it may not have reached the iconic status of some of Whitley’s other hits, it remains beloved among fans as a testament to his talent and emotional depth. The song’s modest but steady place in country music history speaks to the lasting impact of Whitley’s work.
Cultural Impact
Though not as widely known as some of Whitley’s other hits, “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” has influenced a generation of country artists, inspiring them to prioritize emotion and sincerity in their music. The song encapsulates a gentler side of country music, diverging from the heartbreak themes often associated with the genre. Its influence extends beyond just country music; it’s a reminder of the importance of vocal storytelling and how music can offer comfort and nostalgia.
Legacy
“Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” continues to resonate with listeners, both old and new, due to its heartfelt lyrics and Whitley’s honest delivery. The song serves as a lasting tribute to Whitley’s artistry, showcasing his ability to bring sincerity and warmth to each performance. Today, the song endures as a reminder of Whitley’s incredible talent and his ability to make listeners feel seen and understood through music.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right,” I’m reminded of the importance of honest expression in music and the lasting impact it can have on listeners. Keith Whitley’s voice, with its gentle yet powerful delivery, has a way of making listeners feel as though they’re sharing a deeply personal moment with him. I encourage anyone unfamiliar with Whitley’s work to start with this song—it’s a beautiful gateway into his catalog and a testament to the timeless quality of country music at its finest. For a remarkable rendition, the recording on Kentucky Bluebird is a perfect choice to experience the full emotional depth of this beautiful song.
Video
Lyrics
Runnin’ around
I spend my whole life runnin’ around
Settlin’ down
I never dreamed I’d be settlin’ down
But something’s comin’ over me
Woman, you have got a hold on me
And the reason just might be
You’re so good to me, aww
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
It’s alright
Oh girl, It’s alright
Set in my ways
Thinkin’ that love would only get in my way
But now, I’m wanting to stay
I like this feeling of wanting to stay
Really, it’s no mystery
What brought on this change in me
You’re the one who made me see
How love was meant to be, aww
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
It’s alright, alright
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s doin’ me right