About the Song
In the realm of country music, heartache and longing are often the cornerstones of poignant ballads. Vern Gosdin’s “That Just About Does It” stands as a prime example of this sentiment, capturing the essence of a love that has run its course, leaving behind a trail of raw emotions.
Released in 1989, “That Just About Does It” is a song that resonates deeply with listeners, particularly those who have experienced the pain of a love gone wrong. The lyrics, penned by Max Barnes and Vern Gosdin himself, paint a vivid picture of a relationship that has reached its breaking point. The opening lines, “Maybe we should call a truce / We could but what’s the use,” set the tone for the song’s melancholic atmosphere.
Gosdin’s voice, characterized by its rich, emotive quality, perfectly conveys the anguish and resignation embedded in the lyrics. Each note carries the weight of a love that has been lost, yet still holds a lingering presence. The melody, simple yet effective, complements the lyrics, creating a sense of longing and despair that lingers long after the song has ended.
As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the depths of the narrator’s pain. Lines like “I’ve tried to be patient, I’ve tried to be strong / But I can’t take it anymore, it’s just too much too long” lay bare the emotional toll that the relationship has taken. The repeated phrase “That just about does it” serves as a powerful refrain, emphasizing the finality of the situation.
“That Just About Does It” is a timeless country ballad that speaks to the universal human experience of heartbreak. Gosdin’s heartfelt performance and the song’s poignant lyrics make it a must-listen for anyone who has ever experienced the pain of a lost love.