“One’s on the Way” by Loretta Lynn is a classic country song that captures the everyday struggles and joys of a housewife and mother in the early 1970s. Released in 1971 as the lead single from her album of the same name, this track quickly became one of Lynn’s most beloved hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s success is a testament to Lynn’s ability to connect with her audience through her authentic storytelling, humor, and sharp social commentary.
Written by the legendary songwriter Shel Silverstein, “One’s on the Way” is a witty and insightful portrayal of the life of a housewife who is overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood and domestic responsibilities. The song’s narrator humorously recounts the challenges of raising a family, all while expecting yet another child—hence the title, “One’s on the Way.” Through its clever lyrics and catchy melody, the song offers a relatable and lighthearted look at the realities of domestic life, resonating with countless women across America.
Loretta Lynn‘s vocal performance on “One’s on the Way” is both charming and full of personality. Known for her strong, clear voice and down-to-earth delivery, Lynn brings a sense of warmth and authenticity to the song. Her interpretation of the lyrics is playful yet sincere, capturing the mix of exasperation and affection that defines the narrator’s experience. Lynn’s ability to infuse humor into her performance, without losing the underlying sense of truth, is what makes the song so memorable.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator’s chaotic life, filled with children, household chores, and the challenges of pregnancy. The opening lines set the tone with a humorous contrast: “They say to have her hair done Liz flies all the way to France / And Jackie’s seen in a discotheque doing a brand new dance.” These references to glamorous celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis highlight the stark difference between their lives and that of the narrator, who is too busy dealing with kids and housework to indulge in such luxuries.
As the song progresses, the narrator lists the various demands placed on her, from changing diapers to dealing with the antics of her children. The chorus, “And the white line’s gettin’ longer and the saddle’s gettin’ cold / I’m much too young to feel this damn old,” humorously sums up the exhaustion and resignation she feels as she faces the prospect of another child on the way.
Despite the lighthearted tone, “One’s on the Way” also touches on more serious themes, such as the societal expectations placed on women, particularly in rural America. The song subtly critiques the traditional gender roles that confine women to the domestic sphere, while also acknowledging the strength and resilience of women who manage to navigate these challenges with grace and humor. Loretta Lynn herself was a pioneer in addressing such issues in her music, often drawing from her own experiences as a mother and wife to create songs that spoke to the realities of women’s lives.
Musically, “One’s on the Way” is a straightforward country song with a catchy, upbeat melody that complements its humorous lyrics. The arrangement is simple, featuring a twangy guitar, a steady rhythm, and subtle backing vocals that enhance the song’s playful tone. The production allows Lynn’s voice to shine, ensuring that the lyrics remain the focal point of the track. The song’s upbeat tempo and sing-along quality make it an instant favorite, and it’s easy to see why it became such a hit.
The success of “One’s on the Way” was another milestone in Loretta Lynn‘s illustrious career, further establishing her as one of the most important voices in country music. Known for her no-nonsense attitude and willingness to tackle controversial topics, Lynn brought a new level of honesty and authenticity to the genre. This song, like many of her others, resonated with women who saw their own lives reflected in her music.
In addition to its commercial success, “One’s on the Way” has also had a lasting impact on country music, influencing countless female artists who followed in Lynn’s footsteps. The song’s combination of humor, social commentary, and relatable storytelling set a new standard for what country music could be, proving that it could be both entertaining and meaningful.
Loretta Lynn‘s ability to capture the essence of everyday life in her songs is what has made her a beloved figure in country music. “One’s on the Way” is a perfect example of her talent for turning ordinary experiences into something extraordinary, using her voice to give a platform to the stories of women who were often overlooked in mainstream music.
In conclusion, “One’s on the Way” by Loretta Lynn is a timeless country classic that brilliantly combines humor, social commentary, and heartfelt storytelling. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics, delivered with Lynn’s signature warmth and authenticity, make it a standout track in her impressive catalog. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Loretta Lynn or new to her music, “One’s on the Way” is a song that captures the joys and challenges of motherhood with a unique blend of humor and honesty, making it a beloved favorite that continues to resonate with audiences today.
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
They say to have her hair done, Liz flies all the way to France
And Jackie’s seen in a Discotecque doin’ a brand new dance
And the White House social season should be glitterin’ an’ gay
But here in Topeka the rain is a fallin’
The faucet is a drippin’ and the kids are a bawlin’
One of them a toddlin’ and one is a crawlin’
And one’s on the way
I’m glad that Raquel Welch just signed a million dollar pact
And Debbie’s out in Vegas workin’ up a brand new act
While the TV’s showin’ newlyweds, a real fun game to play
But here in Topeka, the screen door’s a bangin’
The coffee’s boilin’ over and the wash needs a hangin’
One wants a cookie and one wants a changin’
And one’s on the way
Now what was I doin’, Jimmy get away from there
Darn, there goes the phone
Hello honey, what’s that you say
You’re bringin’ a few old army buddies home
You’re callin’ from a bar
Get away from there, no, not you honey
I was talkin’ to the baby
Wait a minute, honey, the door bell
Honey, could you stop at the market and hello, hello
Well, I’ll be
The girls in New York City, they all march for women’s lib
And better homes and garden shows the modern way to live
And the pill may change the world tomorrow, but meanwhile, today
Here in Topeka, the flies are a buzzin’
The dog is a barkin’ and the floor needs a scrubbin’
One needs a spankin’ and one needs a huggin’
Lord, one’s on the way
Oh gee, I hope it ain’t twins, again