About the song
“I’m No Stranger to the Rain” is a poignant and timeless piece by the renowned American country music artist Keith Whitley. Released in January 1989 as the fifth and final single from his acclaimed album “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” this song holds a special place in country music history as Whitley’s last single during his lifetime.
The song, penned by Sonny Curtis and Ron Hellard, is celebrated for its deep emotional resonance and moving lyrics, which explore themes of resilience and personal struggle. Its success was evident as it soared to the number-one spot on both the U.S. Hot Country Songs chart and the Canadian Country Tracks chart. In fact, “I’m No Stranger to the Rain” was so well received that it was honored with the Single of the Year award at the Country Music Association Awards in 1989, a recognition that came after Whitley’s untimely death.
The song’s impact has endured over the years, as reflected by its ranking at number 139 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time in 2024. The accompanying music video, filmed at the historic Douglas Corner Cafe in Nashville, features Whitley and his band, capturing the heartfelt essence of his performance.
Additionally, the song has been celebrated by fellow artists; Joe Diffie covered it in a tribute album released in 1995. Its enduring appeal is further highlighted by its certification of Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America, indicating significant sales and streaming success.
“I’m No Stranger to the Rain” stands as a testament to Keith Whitley’s remarkable talent and the lasting influence of his music on the country genre.
Video
Lyrics
I’m no stranger to the rain
I’m a friend of thunder
Friend, is it any wonder lightning strikes me?
I’ve fought with the devil
Got down on his level
But I never gave in, so he gave up on me
I’m no stranger to the rain
I can spot bad weather
And I’m good at finding shelter in a downpour
I’ve been sacrificed by brothers
Crucified by lovers
But through it all, I withstood the pain
I’m no stranger to the rain
When I get that foggy feeling
The one I’m feeling now
If I don’t keep my head up, I may drown
But it’s hard to keep believing
I’ll even come out even
While the rain beats a hole in the ground
And tonight, it’s really coming down
I’m no stranger to the rain
But there’ll always be tomorrow
And I’ll beg, steal, or borrow a little sunshine
And I’ll put this cloud behind me
That’s how the man designed me
To ride the wind and dance in a hurricane
I’m no stranger to the rain
Oh, no, I’m no stranger to the rain
I’m no stranger to the rain
I’m a friend of thunder
Friend, is it any wonder lightning strikes me?
But I’ll put this cloud behind me
That’s how the man designed me
To ride the wind and dance in a hurricane
I’m no stranger to the rain
Oh, no, I’m no stranger to the rain