Introduction:
Gene Watson and Rhonda Vincent‘s duet, “Sweet Thang”, is a prime example of classic country music, released in 2011 on the album Your Money and My Good Looks. While not released as a single, the song has become a beloved cut among fans of both artists and traditional country music for its heartwarming portrayal of a strong and enduring relationship.
Watson, a country music legend with a career spanning over six decades, is known for his smooth baritone vocals and his storytelling lyrics. Nicknamed the “Voice of Texas” for his signature sound, Watson has charted over 76 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, including five No. 1 hits. Some of his most well known songs include “Farewell Party” (1979), “Love in the Hot Afternoon” (1975), and “Fourteen Carat Mind” (1981).
Vincent, a bluegrass icon, is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist who has achieved equal success within her genre. Vincent’s powerful and versatile vocals have earned her the respect of her peers and a legion of fans. A staple in the bluegrass scene since her childhood, Vincent has released numerous solo albums and collaborated with countless bluegrass and country artists throughout her career.
The pairing of Watson and Vincent on “Sweet Thang” is a perfect blend of their respective styles. Watson’s smooth vocals weave seamlessly with Vincent’s powerful delivery, creating a beautiful harmony that carries the song’s message of love and commitment. The simple yet effective melody and sentimental lyrics paint a picture of a couple who have weathered life’s storms together and emerged stronger.
While “Sweet Thang” may not have garnered the chart success of some of Watson or Vincent’s other work, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of classic country music and the magic that can be created when two talented artists come together. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to resonate with listeners who appreciate the traditional country sound and the timeless themes of love and companionship.
Video:
Lyrics:
I slipped out of the house around sundown
While Mama was washing her hair
And you can bet your bottom dollar
She’ll come looking for me
When she finds that I’m not there
And if she catches her sweet thang running around
I know there’ll be the devil to pay
She’ll come blowing like a cyclone through that door
And I can hear exactly what she’ll say
Well, has anybody here seen sweet thang
I got a notion he’ll be headed this way
‘Cause when my sweet thang’s out tom-catting around
He finds a sandbox like this to play
I wanna tell all you barroom rosies
If my sweet thang does happen by
You’d better take my advice
‘Cause if you blink more than twice
You’d better have something in your eye
I give my baby all my money on payday
Except a little she don’t know that I got
‘Cause there’s a cute little waitress down at the corner cafe
And she seems to like me quite a lot
Well, we were sitting in this back booth having a talk
And she’s believing every word that I said
When the door blew open and mama walked in
Yelling loud enough to wake the dead
Well, has anybody here seen sweet thang
I got a notion he’ll be headed this way
‘Cause when my sweet thang’s out tom-catting around
He finds a sandbox like this to play
I wanna tell all you barroom rosies
If my sweet thang does happen by
You’d better take my advice
‘Cause if you blink more than twice
You’d better have something in your eye
You’d better take my advice
‘Cause if you blink more than twice
You’d better have something in your eye