Introduction:
Released in September 1991, Look At Us is a country music song written and recorded by American country music artist Vince Gill. The song became a popular track on Gill’s album, Pocket Full of Gold, which itself was a critical and commercial success.
“Look At Us” is a prime example of Gill’s songwriting strengths. Throughout his career, Gill has been known for his ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences on a personal level. “Look At Us” is no exception. The song explores themes of love, commitment, and the enduring strength of a relationship. The lyrics, while not explicitly mentioning marriage, paint a picture of a long-term romantic partnership that has weathered the tests of time.
The song’s emotional core is accentuated by the pedal steel guitar intro, played by session musician John Hughey. Hughey, known for his “crying steel” technique, coaxes a mournful beauty from the instrument, setting the stage for Gill’s introspective lyrics. Gill himself has acknowledged the importance of this intro, stating that it “makes that song recognizable by what happens before any words even get sung.”[4]
“Look At Us” was a success on the music charts. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, showcasing its popularity among country music listeners. While the song did not win any major awards itself, it was included on Gill’s 1992 album I Still Believe In You, which won the Grammy Award for Best Country Album. This recognition speaks to the overall quality of “Look At Us” and the other songs on the album.
More than just commercial success, “Look At Us” has achieved a special status as a fan favorite. The song continues to be a staple at Gill’s concerts, and it has been covered by other artists, a testament to its enduring appeal. “Look At Us” serves as a reminder of Vince Gill’s songwriting prowess and his ability to capture the universal emotions that come with long-lasting love.