Vern Gosdin – Chiseled In Stone

Introduction:

Released in 1988, “Chiseled in Stone” stands as a cornerstone of traditional country music. The song, written by Vern Gosdin himself alongside Max D. Barnes, not only became a hit for Gosdin, but also garnered him significant recognition within the country music scene.

Gosdin, a prolific singer-songwriter known for his smooth baritone and poignant lyrics, had already established himself as a respected figure in country music by the late 1980s. “Chiseled in Stone” served as the title track for his tenth studio album, released under Columbia Records. The album itself achieved critical acclaim, peaking at number 7 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.

“Chiseled in Stone” is a prime example of classic country storytelling. The song delves into the depths of loneliness and regret that follow a heated argument between lovers. The narrative unfolds from the perspective of a man who, in the throes of anger, retreats to a bar to drown his sorrows. There, he encounters a wise old man who imparts a powerful message about the true value of companionship. Through the old man’s words, the protagonist gains a newfound appreciation for his partner and the importance of reconciliation.

The song’s success transcended mere chart numbers. “Chiseled in Stone” resonated with listeners for its relatable portrayal of conflict and redemption within a romantic relationship. The raw emotions conveyed through Gosdin’s vocals, coupled with the poignant lyrics, struck a chord with audiences. This connection was further solidified by the song’s critical reception. In 1989, “Chiseled in Stone” earned Gosdin the prestigious Country Music Association’s Song of the Year award. This recognition cemented the song’s place as a significant entry in the country music canon.

“Chiseled in Stone” continues to be a beloved classic, cherished by both fans of Vern Gosdin and traditional country music in general. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the complexities of human relationships with honesty and emotional depth. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of communication, forgiveness, and cherishing the ones we love.

Video:

Lyrics:

You ran cryin’ to the bedroom
I ran off to the bar
Another piece of heaven gone to hell
The words we spoke in anger
Just tore my world apart
And I sat there feelin’ sorry for myself
Then an old man sat down beside me
And looked me in the eye
He said, “Son, I know what you’re goin’ through
You ought to get down on your knees
And thank your lucky stars
That you’ve got someone to go home to

You don’t know about lonely
Or how long nights can be
Till you’ve lived through the story
That’s still livin’ in me
You don’t know about sadness
Till you’ve faced life alone
You don’t know about lonely
Till it’s chiseled in stone”

So I brought these pretty flowers
Hoping you would understand
Sometimes a man is such a fool
Those golden words of wisdom
From the heart of that old man
Showed me I ain’t nothin’ without you

You don’t know about lonely
Or how long nights can be
Till you’ve lived through the story
That old man just told me
And you don’t know about sadness
Till you’ve faced life alone
You don’t know about lonely
Till it’s chiseled in stone
You don’t know about lonely
Till it’s chiseled in stone