Introduction:
Everything I Used To Do is a timeless country ballad performed by the legendary Gene Watson. Released in 1986 as part of his album Starting New Memories, the song quickly resonated with audiences and cemented Watson’s status as a leading figure in traditional country music.
Penned by Edwin Rowell, the song explores themes of heartbreak, longing, and the cyclical nature of life. Watson’s rich, emotive vocals perfectly capture the raw pain of a man who is going through the motions of his daily life but is unable to escape the shadow of a lost love. The track’s poignant lyrics and Watson’s heartfelt delivery have made it a beloved standard in the country music canon.
Produced by Larry Booth, Everything I Used To Do showcases a classic country sound, featuring steel guitar, fiddle, and acoustic guitar. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Watson’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s popularity led to significant chart success, climbing high on the Billboard Country Singles chart and solidifying Watson’s position as a country music superstar.
While not garnering specific awards for this particular song, Everything I Used To Do contributed significantly to Gene Watson’s overall career achievements, including multiple Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association awards. The song remains a staple in Watson’s live performances and continues to be cherished by fans as a quintessential example of traditional country music at its finest.