About the song
Alabama’s “Old Flame” is a classic country ballad that has stood the test of time. Penned by Donny Lowery and Mac McAnally, this heartfelt song offers a poignant reflection on a past love that continues to linger in the heart. Released in 1981 as the lead single from their album “Feels So Right,” “Old Flame” quickly climbed the charts, becoming the group’s third number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable lyrics and the band’s emotive delivery. “Old Flame” paints a vivid picture of a lost love, exploring the bittersweet memories and lingering emotions that accompany such a relationship. The song’s protagonist grapples with the desire to hold onto the past while recognizing the inevitability of moving forward.
Alabama’s harmonies and instrumentation perfectly complement the song’s reflective tone. The acoustic guitar provides a gentle backdrop, while the band’s vocals convey a sense of longing and nostalgia. The song’s bridge, with its poignant lyrics about “watching the seasons change,” further emphasizes the passage of time and the enduring nature of love.
“Old Flame” has not only resonated with country music fans but has also found a place in popular culture. The song is featured in the FX series “The Americans,” where it serves as a powerful backdrop to a tender moment between the main characters. This inclusion has helped to introduce the song to a wider audience and solidify its status as a timeless classic.
In conclusion, “Old Flame” is a captivating country ballad that continues to touch the hearts of listeners. With its relatable lyrics, heartfelt vocals, and timeless melody, this song has earned its place in the country music canon. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Alabama or simply appreciate great songwriting, “Old Flame” is a song that deserves a place in your music collection.
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Lyrics
I saw you starin’ at each other
I saw your eyes begin to glow
And I could tell you once were lovers
But you ain’t hidin’ nothin’ that I don’t know.There’s an old flame burnin’ in your eyes
That tears can’t drown and make-up can’t disguise
Now that old flame might not be stronger
But it’s been burnin’ longer
Than any spark I might have started in your eyes.You said it ended when he left you
You say your love for me is strong
But those old memories still upset you
Well, I might be a memory before too long.‘Cause there’s an old flame burnin’ in your eyes
That tears can’t drown and make-up can’t disguise
Now that old flame might not be stronger
But it’s been burnin’ longer
Than any spark I might have started in your eyes.There’s an old flame burnin’ in your eyes
That tears can’t drown and make-up can’t disguise
Now that old flame might not be stronger
But it’s been burnin’ longer…