Introduction
In the quiet corner of every town, there are stories whispered that resonate deeply with the fabric of our lives. “He Gets That from Me,” a tender ballad by Reba McEntire, unfolds one such tale. This song, featured on her 2003 album “Room to Breathe,” mirrors countless personal stories of love and legacy, serving as a bridge between the personal and the universal.
About The Composition
- Title: He Gets That from Me
- Composer: Written by Phillip White and Steven Dale Jones
- Premiere Date: 2004
- Album/Opus/Collection: Room to Breathe (2003)
- Genre: Country
Background
“He Gets That from Me” was penned by songwriters Phillip White and Steven Dale Jones and became a poignant track on Reba McEntire’s album “Room to Breathe.” The song reflects deeply personal narratives, making it relatable on a universal level. It was well-received upon its release, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and became a staple in McEntire’s discography. Its appeal lies in its honest portrayal of a mother’s reflections on her son, which listeners found both heartwarming and genuine.
Musical Style
The song features a classic country arrangement with a modern twist, marked by acoustic guitars, a soft piano, and McEntire’s expressive vocals. The arrangement supports the lyrical content beautifully, providing a soft backdrop that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics without overpowering them. This musical setup allows the narrative to take center stage, inviting listeners to reflect on their personal connections to the themes presented.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “He Gets That from Me” explore themes of familial resemblance and the small yet significant ways loved ones can remind us of each other. The song beautifully articulates how traits and habits are passed down through generations, creating an enduring bond. This lyrical exploration deepens the emotional impact of the song, as it touches on the universal experience of memory and inheritance in personal relationships.
Performance History
Since its release, “He Gets That from Me” has been a prominent part of Reba McEntire’s performances. Its resonance with audiences has only grown over the years, as its themes of family and memory continue to strike a chord with listeners. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its deep emotional and lyrical relevance.
Cultural Impact
The song’s portrayal of universal familial themes has allowed it to transcend the confines of country music, impacting broader cultural narratives about family, memory, and legacy. Its use in personal and public celebrations of family and remembrance showcases its wide-reaching influence.
Legacy
“He Gets That from Me” continues to be an essential part of Reba McEntire’s musical legacy and the country music genre. Its ability to connect on a deeply personal level has ensured its place as a timeless piece, continuing to affect new generations of listeners who find their stories reflected in its lyrics.
Conclusion
“He Gets That from Me” is more than just a song; it is a narrative woven into the lives of those who listen to it. Its ability to capture the essence of human connections through simple yet profound lyrics makes it a significant cultural artifact. I encourage all who resonate with tales of familial bonds and legacy to delve into this song, perhaps finding a piece of themselves within its melodies. For a truly moving experience, listen to Reba McEntire’s live renditions, which bring an additional layer of warmth and authenticity to this already powerful piece
Video
Lyrics
His early morning attitude,
You have to drag him outta bed,
Only frosted flakes will do,
He gets that from me
Yeah he gets that from me
His curly hair and his knobby knees,
The way the sun brings those freckles out,
Talkin’ talk never miss a beat,
Yeah he gets that from me,
He gets that from me
He looks at me with those big brown eyes,
He’s got me in the palm of his hands,
And I swear sometimes,
It’s just like you’re here again,
He smiles that little crooked smile,
There’s no denying he’s your child,
Without him I don’t know what I’d do,
He gets that from you,
Oh he gets that from you
How he loves your old guitar,
Yeah he’s taught himself today,
He melts my heart,
Tells me he loves me every day,
And cracks a joke at the perfect time,
Makes me laugh when I want to cry,
That boy is everything to me,
He gets that from you,
He gets that from you
Last night I heard him pray,
Lord help me and momma make it through,
And tell daddy we’ll be ok,
He said he sure misses you,
He sure misses you,
He really misses you,
He gets that from me