Merle Travis – Divorce Me C.O.D: A Classic Hillbilly Hit
Are you a fan of hillbilly music? Then you’re probably familiar with Merle Travis, one of the most influential country musicians of all time. Today, we’re going to talk about one of his biggest hits, “Divorce Me C.O.D.” This song, recorded in 1946, was a chart-topping success, number one on the Folk Juke Box charts where it stayed for fourteen weeks and a total of twenty-three weeks on the chart.
Merle Travis and Cliffie Stone wrote “Divorce Me C.O.D.” and was produced by Lee Gillette. The song is a lighthearted take on a serious subject: divorce. It tells the story of a man who’s tired of his wife’s constant nagging and wants her to divorce him – but only if she pays him cash on delivery (C.O.D.).
This catchy tune features Travis’ signature thumb-picking style, which would go on to influence countless other country musicians. It’s no wonder that “Divorce Me C.O.D.” is considered a classic of the genre.
If you’re a fan of hillbilly music or just curious about Merle Travis, “Divorce Me C.O.D.” is definitely worth a listen. Its playful lyrics and upbeat tempo make it a fun addition to any country music playlist.
The Story Behind the Song
Travis wrote “Divorce Me C.O.D.” in 1945, inspired by a real-life conversation he had with a friend. The friend had recently gone through a divorce and joked that he wished his ex-wife had to pay him C.O.D. for it.
Travis took this idea and ran with it, crafting a catchy tune that would become one of his biggest hits. The song’s clever lyrics and infectious melody made it an instant classic.
Merle Travis: A Hillbilly Legend
Merle Travis was born in Kentucky in 1917 and began playing guitar at a young age. He developed his unique thumb-picking style as a teenager and went on to become one of the most respected musicians in country music history.
Travis’ innovative guitar technique, combined with his songwriting talent, helped him to forge a successful career in the music industry. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1977, cementing his place in music history.
Conclusion
“Divorce Me C.O.D.” is just one example of Merle Travis’ immense talent and influence on country music. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering his music for the first time, it’s clear that Travis’ contributions to the genre are not to be underestimated.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of Merle Travis and “Divorce Me C.O.D.” – a true classic of hillbilly music.
COUNTRYPEDIA
Merle Travis – Divorce Me C.O.D Lyrics
Just bought me a great long ticket
I’m gonna use it at 4 PM
So you can call your secret love
And tell the news to him
You thought your little romance
Was on the strict Q.T
So if you want your freedom P.D.Q
Divorce me C.O.D
I won’t be ’round to hear you cry
I’m Texas bound, and bye and bye
You can reach me down in Dallas
General delivery
So if you want your freedom P.D.Q
Divorce me C.O.D
There’s gonna come a day, gal
When you’ll be feelin’ blue
You’ll find that you can’t pay your bills
With a little ole’ I.O.U
That dynamite you’re messin’ with
May be T.N.T
So if you want your freedom P.D.Q
Divorce me C.O.D
No need to fall
Down on your knees
‘Cause I know all
My A.B.C.’s
I ain’t no college ‘fessor
I ain’t got no P.H.D
But if you want your freedom P.D.Q
Divorce me C.O.D
GENIUS
