Introduction:
Randy Travis’ “On The Other Hand”. Now that’s a song that takes me back. Released in 1986, it marked a pivotal moment in country music. Here was a young artist, fresh out of the box with Warner Bros. Nashville, and his debut single, though good, hadn’t quite cracked the charts. But then came “On The Other Hand”, a tune that perfectly captured the essence of classic country songwriting and propelled Travis to superstardom.
This wasn’t your typical, foot-stomping honky-tonk number. Sure, it had that signature country twang in Travis’ unmistakable baritone, but the melody was smooth and introspective. The credit for that goes to the legendary songwriting duo of Paul Overstreet and Don Schlitz. These guys were Nashville royalty, having penned hits for artists like George Strait and Reba McEntire. For “On The Other Hand”, they crafted a narrative that resonated deeply with country music audiences.
The song explores the internal conflict of a man caught between desire and commitment. The lyrics paint a picture of a tempting encounter, a new flame that ignites a long-dormant passion. But the protagonist is also weighed down by a pre-existing relationship, symbolized by a golden band – a wedding ring, no doubt. This internal tug-of-war, this battle between temptation and responsibility, is a classic theme in country music, and “On The Other Hand” captures it beautifully.
It’s important to note the role of producer Kyle Lehning in shaping this song. Lehning, known for his work with artists like Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley, understood the power of simplicity. “On The Other Hand” features a stripped-down arrangement, with Travis’ vocals taking center stage. The clean picking on the acoustic guitar perfectly complements the melody, while the subtle touches of piano and steel guitar add depth and emotion without overwhelming the intimacy of the song.
“On The Other Hand” wasn’t an immediate success. Released in 1985, it didn’t quite catch fire. However, the tides turned when Travis’ follow-up single, the nostalgia-tinged “1982”, became a massive hit. Capitalizing on this newfound momentum, Warner Bros. re-released “On The Other Hand” in 1986. This time, it struck a chord. The song climbed the charts, eventually reaching number one on both the US and Canadian country charts. It became Travis’ signature tune, the song that launched a career that would see him win seven Grammy Awards and become a household name in country music.
“On The Other Hand” wasn’t just a chart-topper; it was a cultural touchstone. It resonated with listeners facing their own challenges of love and commitment. It showcased the power of strong songwriting, a captivating performance, and a production that allowed the music to breathe. So, when you hit play on “On The Other Hand”, you’re not just listening to a song; you’re experiencing a piece of country music history.