I don’t listen to current country radio anymore, because we have to wade thru hours of junk, just to hear one half-way decent song. This song is a diamond among the rhinestones….

I certainly wouldn’t call the second verse “weak” in any sort of general sense. There are some great details in that verse, and as a whole I think it’s very well-written – I just don’t think it’s quite as interesting or creative as verses one or three (which are exceptionally interesting and creative to me, so the bar is extremely high). That’s not really a big knock on the song, which I said earlier stands as one of the golden standards of the genre (in my mind).

Also, regarding this bit:
“I was disappointed to read some of the comments, and fail to understand why this glorious, beautifully written and heartfelt blog had to turn into some sort of critical one-upmanship.”

Honestly, I think the fact that the blog elicited so many impassioned responses (all arguing as to whether the song is one of the greatest ever or merely great – which is a pretty lofty place to be at, dont’cha think?) speaks to how well-written this entry is. No one would bother arguing on this thread if Kevin had written a crappy piece about the song. Plus, I don’t know about you, but I think songs like this one are strong enough to withstand a little scrutiny – that’s part of what carries on their legacy.

I was disappointed to read some of the comments, and fail to understand why this glorious, beautifully written and heartfelt blog had to turn into some sort of critical one-upmanship. Where are your Grammy awards?

I’ve been in many audiences when Kathy performed “Where’ve You Been,” usually after it has been requested, and the song never fails to evoke wild applause.

As for that second verse everyone proclaims as “weak” ~ the song tells a story. Is Verse 2 necessary? Perhaps not in your opinion, but it is telling the story. I’ve been hearing that song for many, many summers, and it hasn’t lost its power for me.

In any case, its continued demand in Kathy Mattea’s concerts by both old and new fans, and in Jon Vezner’s appearances, speaks with far more eloquence and effectiveness than any of these comments.

In addition to “Where’ve You Been” and “How Can I Help You Say Goodbye”, I really love “Somebody’s Hero”, “That’s My Job”, and “Don’t Blink.” I’m drawing a blank on other songs of that type, but I’m sure when reminded, they’ll be ones I like.

I tend to gravitate more to songs about life than love, anyway. Is it any wonder I ended up a philosophy major after three weeks of an intro class?