Gene Watson – Nothing Sure Looked Good On You

Introduction:

“Nothing Sure Looked Good On You”, a poignant country ballad about love lost and the allure of material wealth, was released in December 1979 by American country music singer Gene Watson. The song found a home on Watson’s studio album Should I Come Home, produced by industry veteran Russ Reeder. While the album itself wasn’t a breakout success, “Nothing Sure Looked Good On You” struck a chord with audiences, propelling itself to #4 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. This accomplishment not only marked the highest-charting single of Watson’s career at that point, but also significantly bolstered his reputation as a rising star in country music.

“Nothing Sure Looked Good On You” explores the complexities of love and the challenges couples face, particularly when financial security is strained. The narrator reflects on a past relationship, recalling a time when he and his partner faced hardship together. Despite their lack of material possessions, their love remained strong. The song takes a turn when the narrator learns that his former lover has moved on to a wealthier partner, enjoying a life of luxury. A deep sense of loss and betrayal colors the lyrics, as the narrator confronts the idea that his love wasn’t enough to sustain the relationship.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes. “Nothing Sure Looked Good On You” taps into the universal human experience of grappling with love, loss, and the desire for a better life. It resonates with those who have struggled financially or faced heartbreak, particularly when intertwined. Gene Watson’s distinctive baritone vocals deliver the lyrics with a sincerity that evokes emotions of nostalgia, regret, and acceptance.

“Nothing Sure Looked Good On You” became a cornerstone of Gene Watson’s career. The song’s success opened doors for Watson, allowing him to secure a wider audience and solidifying his place within the country music landscape. It also became a staple of his live performances, frequently requested by fans. Even today, “Nothing Sure Looked Good On You” remains a cherished classic of country music, a testament to Watson’s songwriting talent and his ability to connect with listeners through his music.

Video:

Lyrics:

You found your greener pastures in a mansion on the hill
With a flashy foreign car to drive and lots of time to kill
Now my mind keeps on remembering the days of me and you
But when we were down to nothing, nothin’ sure looked good on you.
You said you needed simple things that I had plenty of
And through the days of dark and rain we could always live on love
With his style in life he lured you and you could not refuse
But when we were down to nothin’, nothin’ sure looked so good on you.
When you honeymooned in Paris it was carried on the news
And I heard you laughed your cares away on a Caribbean cruise
You were always one for dreamin’, now your dreams can all come true
But when we were down to nothin’, nothin’ sure looked good on you

You said you needed simple things that I had plenty of
And through the days of dark and rain we could always live on love
With his style in life he lured you and you could not refuse
But when we were down to nothin’, nothin’ sure looked so good on you