Eddy Arnold – Make the World Go Away

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” 

Introduction

Imagine the solace of closing your eyes, leaning back, and letting a song carry you to a place of quietude, where worries simply fade. “Make the World Go Away,” a timeless melody sung by Eddy Arnold, captures this yearning for peace and simplicity in a complex world. This song, with its rich history and tender lyrics, has resonated with generations, offering a comforting escape from life’s troubles. Let’s delve into the roots and impact of this iconic song.

About The Composition

• Title: Make the World Go Away
• Composer: Hank Cochran
• Premiere Date: 1963 (originally recorded by Ray Price; Eddy Arnold’s hit version released in 1965)
• Album: My World (Eddy Arnold’s 1965 version)
• Genre: Country, Countrypolitan

Background

Written by Hank Cochran, “Make the World Go Away” became a breakout hit in 1963, originally recorded by Ray Price. The song’s haunting plea for respite from life’s struggles struck a universal chord. Eddy Arnold’s rendition in 1965 further propelled the song into legendary status, marking it as one of the great classics in country music. Arnold’s smoother, countrypolitan interpretation brought Cochran’s emotional lyrics into the hearts of a broader audience, becoming one of Arnold’s most successful recordings. It was also pivotal for the “Nashville Sound,” a style that blended traditional country with pop elements, helping country music reach a wider, mainstream audience.

Musical Style

Arnold’s version of “Make the World Go Away” is a masterpiece of countrypolitan style, characterized by lush orchestration, smooth vocals, and a touch of reverb. Unlike the raw, twangy instrumentation typical of early country music, this song features string arrangements and a slower, more reflective tempo that emphasizes the emotional depth of the lyrics. The use of orchestration creates a sense of melancholy yet hope, perfectly complementing the themes of regret and longing. Arnold’s gentle baritone vocal delivery allows listeners to feel every ounce of yearning in the song, inviting them into an intimate and contemplative listening experience.

Lyrics

The lyrics in “Make the World Go Away” explore themes of regret, forgiveness, and the human desire to escape the harshness of life, even for just a moment. Lines like, “Say the things you used to say, and make the world go away,” portray a longing to return to simpler, happier times. The song’s direct language and relatable themes make it timeless, resonating with anyone who’s ever needed a pause from the pressures of life.

Performance History

Arnold’s rendition of “Make the World Go Away” was met with tremendous acclaim, reaching No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even crossing over into the pop charts, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own unique touch to the piece, including Elvis Presley, Donny Osmond, and Martina McBride. Arnold’s version, however, remains iconic, largely thanks to its role in introducing a broader audience to country music’s evolving sound.

Cultural Impact

“Make the World Go Away” is more than just a song; it has become a cultural symbol of respite and introspection. Its memorable lyrics and poignant melody have been used in television shows, films, and commercials, often in scenes portraying nostalgia or a desire for inner peace. This song also played a key role in popularizing the countrypolitan sound, bridging the gap between traditional country music and mainstream pop, thereby shaping the direction of country music for years to come.

Legacy

Today, “Make the World Go Away” is a classic, continuing to touch listeners with its timeless themes and beautiful composition. The song’s legacy lies in its ability to provide a moment of escape, something as powerful and relevant today as it was decades ago. Arnold’s rendition, in particular, endures as a pinnacle of countrypolitan music, and its influence can still be felt in the works of contemporary country and pop artists alike.

Conclusion

“Make the World Go Away” is a song that invites us to pause, breathe, and find solace in music’s healing power. Eddy Arnold’s version captures the essence of its time while remaining relatable today, a testament to its universal message. If you haven’t heard this classic, take a few minutes to listen – let Arnold’s voice transport you, if only for a moment, to a place where the world’s troubles gently drift away.