About the song
Conway Twitty, a titan of country music, often delved into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. His 1970 hit, “That’s My Job,” stands as a poignant exploration of dedication, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment one can make to another.
The song, penned by Don Wayne Miller and Bill Mack, paints a vivid picture of a man whose life revolves around his love for a woman. He compares his role to that of a dedicated employee, implying that his primary duty is to serve her needs and ensure her happiness. The lyrics evoke a sense of both servitude and devotion, highlighting the lengths to which he is willing to go to maintain their relationship.
Twitty’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by its emotional depth and resonant tone, perfectly captures the song’s heartfelt message. His performance is marked by a sense of vulnerability and sincerity, as he conveys the character’s unwavering love and commitment. The melody, with its poignant and melancholic undertones, further enhances the emotional impact of the song.
“That’s My Job” resonated deeply with audiences upon its release, solidifying Twitty’s status as a leading figure in country music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the universal themes it explores. It continues to be a beloved classic, reminding listeners of the power of love, sacrifice, and the unwavering dedication one can make to another.
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Lyrics
I woke up crying late at night
When I was very young
I had dreamed my father
Had passed away and gone
My world revolved around him
I couldn’t lie there anymore
So I made my way down the mirrored hall
And tapped upon his door
And I said “Daddy, I’m so afraid
How will I go on with you gone that way?
Don’t want to cry anymore, so may I stay with you?”
And he said “That’s my job
That’s what I do
Everything I do is because of you
To keep you safe with me
That’s my job you see”
Later we barely got along
This teenage boy and he
Most of the fights it seems
Were over different dreams
We each held for me
He wanted knowledge and learning
I wanted to fly out west
Said, “I could make it out there
If I just had the fare
I got half, will you loan me the rest?”
And I said “Daddy, I’m so afraid
There’s no guarantee in the plans
I’ve made and if I should fail
Who will pay my way back home?”
And he said “That’s my job
That’s what I do
Everything I do is because of you
To keep you safe with me
That’s my job you see”
Every person carves his spot
And fills the hole with light
And I pray someday I might
Light as bright as he
Woke up early one bright fall day
To spread the tragic news
After all my travel, I settled down
Within a mile or two
I make my living with words and rhyme
And all this tragedy
Should go into my head and out instead
As bits of poetry
But I say “Daddy, I’m so afraid
How will I go on with you gone this way?
How can I come up with a song to say I love you?”
That’s my job, That’s what I do
Everything I do is because of you
To keep you safe with me
That’s my job you see
Everything I do is because of you
To keep you safe with me