About the song
“Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” is a poignant and haunting country ballad written by Mel Tillis and Johnny Burnett, and made famous by the legendary Kenny Rogers in 1979. This song has become an iconic classic in the country music genre, resonating with listeners across generations. The song’s narrative is a powerful exploration of the devastating consequences of war, love, and loss, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War era.
The song tells the story of a young soldier, Billy, who is stationed in Vietnam and is deeply in love with his girlfriend, Ruby. Despite the distance and danger, Billy and Ruby’s love remains strong, and they make plans for a future together. However, tragedy strikes when Billy is severely injured in combat, and Ruby is left to pick up the pieces of their shattered dreams.
The song’s lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling, painting a vivid picture of the emotional toll of war on those left behind. Kenny Rogers’ smooth, velvety vocals bring the characters to life, imbuing the song with a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song’s chorus, with its soaring melody and poignant lyrics, is particularly memorable, as Rogers’ voice cracks with emotion as he implores Ruby not to take her love to town.
“Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” is more than just a country song – it’s a powerful commentary on the human cost of war, the fragility of love, and the resilience of the human spirit. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Kenny Rogers’ version remains the most iconic and enduring. This song is a testament to the enduring power of music to capture the essence of the human experience, and its impact continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
In this essay, we will delve deeper into the song’s themes, lyrics, and musical composition, exploring why “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love to Town” remains a beloved classic in the country music canon. We will also examine the song’s cultural significance, its impact on the country music genre, and its enduring appeal to listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
You’ve painted up your lips and rolled and curled your tinted hair
Ruby, are you contemplating going out somewhere?
The shadow on the wall tells me the sun is going down
Oh, Ruby
Don’t take your love to town
It wasn’t me that started that old crazy Asian war
But I was proud to go and do my patriotic chore
And yes, it’s true that I’m not the man I used to be
Oh, Ruby
I still need some company
It’s hard to love a man whose legs are bent and paralyzed
And the wants and the needs of a woman of your age, Ruby, I realize
But it won’t be long I’ve heard them say until I’m not around
Oh, Ruby
Don’t take your love to town
She’s leaving now ’cause I just heard the slamming of the door
The way I know I’ve heard it slam one hundred times before
And if I could move I’d get my gun and put her in the ground
Oh, Ruby
Don’t take your love to town
Oh, Ruby
For God’s sakes turn around