About The Song
While Patsy Cline is universally celebrated for her iconic hits like “Crazy” and “I Fall to Pieces,” her discography offers a wealth of lesser-known gems that reveal the depth and breadth of her artistry. Among these hidden treasures lies “Hidin’ Out,” a track that, while not as commercially prominent, provides a fascinating glimpse into Cline’s vocal prowess and the evolving landscape of country music in the early 1960s.
Released during a period of significant transition in popular music, “Hidin’ Out” captures a distinct mood. It’s not the soaring heartbreak of her signature ballads, but rather a more subdued and introspective piece. The song’s narrative centers on themes of retreat and emotional withdrawal, resonating with anyone who has ever sought solace in solitude. This theme, while perhaps not as immediately striking as the dramatic narratives of her bigger hits, speaks to a universal human experience – the need to disconnect from the world and find refuge within oneself.
Musically, “Hidin’ Out” showcases Cline’s remarkable vocal control and phrasing. Her delivery is nuanced, conveying a sense of quiet desperation and resignation. Unlike the powerful, almost operatic delivery she employed in songs like “Sweet Dreams,” here her voice is more restrained, drawing the listener in with its intimacy. This subtle approach underscores the song’s theme of emotional hiding, mirroring the lyrical content with its delicate musicality. The instrumentation, typical of the Nashville Sound prevalent at the time, features smooth strings, gentle piano chords, and a subtle rhythm section. This arrangement creates a warm, almost comforting backdrop for Cline’s vocals, enhancing the song’s overall sense of introspection.
It’s important to place “Hidin’ Out” within the broader context of Patsy Cline‘s career. By the early 1960s, she had already established herself as a major force in country music, bridging the gap between traditional honky-tonk and the more polished sounds that were beginning to emerge. This song exemplifies that transition. While it retains some of the raw emotion of her earlier work, it also embraces the sophisticated production techniques that defined the Nashville Sound. This blend of traditional and contemporary elements is one of the hallmarks of Cline’s music, and it’s clearly evident in “Hidin’ Out.”
Moreover, “Hidin’ Out” offers valuable insight into the evolving role of women in country music. While many female artists of the era were often relegated to singing about domesticity and romantic longing, Cline’s music explored a wider range of emotions and experiences. “Hidin’ Out,” with its focus on emotional withdrawal, touches upon themes of vulnerability and inner strength, presenting a more complex and nuanced portrayal of female experience.
While “Hidin’ Out” may not be the first song that comes to mind when discussing Patsy Cline‘s legacy, it’s a worthy addition to her extensive catalog. It demonstrates her versatility as a vocalist and offers a poignant exploration of universal themes. For listeners seeking a deeper understanding of Patsy Cline‘s artistry beyond her greatest hits, “Hidin’ Out” is a rewarding discovery, offering a quiet yet powerful testament to her enduring talent. It is a reminder that even in her lesser-known works, Patsy Cline‘s voice continues to resonate with its timeless emotional depth.
Video
Lyric
People point us out and shake their heads in shame
In gossip circles we are talked about
Darlin’, on you I hold no legal claim
But here we are again, hidin’ outThe kisses that you give make our wrong seem so right
It’s too late to stop, there’s no doubt
We said we wouldn’t meet tonight, my dear
But here we are again, hidin’ outThe ones we’re tied to, we know we’ll hurt, my dear
Though we’re hoping they don’t find us out
Sooner or later, we know we’ll be caught
But here we are again, hidin’ out…