Introduction
Heartaches by the Number: Ray Price Counts His Country Blues
Ray Price’s “Heartaches by the Number” isn’t your typical tear-jerker ballad. Released in 1959, the song tackles heartbreak with a surprising dose of humor and a jaunty melody, becoming a signature tune for the country legend.
While the exact origins remain unclear, some credit goes to songwriter Harlan Howard, known for crafting country classics like “I Fall to Pieces” and “Why Not Me.” Howard’s witty lyrics perfectly capture the song’s lighthearted cynicism. Price, known for his smooth baritone and ability to deliver a song with both sincerity and a wink, became the perfect vessel for this unique brand of heartache.
The song opens with a relatable line: “Thank you, heartache number one, for letting me know I could hurt this way.” The narrator then proceeds to catalog his collection of heartbreaks, each one assigned a number and a brief explanation. From a first love leaving to a rebound gone wrong, the song chronicles a series of romantic mishaps with a touch of dark humor.
Despite the lighthearted tone, “Heartaches by the Number” doesn’t shy away from the sting of rejection. The underlying message acknowledges the universality of heartbreak while offering a sense of resilience. The narrator may be down on his luck, but he’s not out for the count. He’ll pick himself up, dust himself off, and keep on searching for love, ready to add another number to his collection if necessary.
“Heartaches by the Number” became a country standard. It reached number two on the Billboard Hot C&W Sides chart in 1959 and has been covered by numerous artists, from George Jones to Kitty Wells. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its unique blend of humor and pathos, a reminder that even the deepest heartaches can be overcome with a touch of self-deprecating wit and a hopeful outlook.
So, if you’re feeling a little brokenhearted, put on “Heartaches by the Number” and join Ray Price on a journey through his collection of romantic woes. You might just find yourself laughing through the tears.