Tale Behind Jhonny Duncan’s Hit Song: “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous“
Delving into the captivating narrative that unfolds behind the legendary country music track “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous,” penned by the talented Sonny Throckmorton and Bobby Braddock, we uncover a remarkable journey that led to its creation and chart-topping success.
In the annals of music history, Johnny Duncan‘s name stands strong, etched in time for his notable records under Columbia’s banner. But it wasn’t until 1976 that Duncan’s perseverance bore fruit, propelling him to the coveted number one spot. A decade-long odyssey paved the way, commencing with his debut appearance on Billboard’s country singles chart with “Hard Luck Joe” in 1967. While the initial attempt peaked at a modest #54, Duncan’s determination remained unshaken.
Throughout those years, he collaborated with Columbia’s renowned production duo, Don Law and Frank Jones, until the winter of 1973 when fate led him to cross paths with Billy Sherrill in the studio. Facing an impending contract renewal and a dearth of hits, Duncan’s strategic move was to align with Columbia’s powerhouse, Billy Sherrill, believing this partnership would catalyze his artistic breakthrough.
Under Sherrill’s guidance, Duncan’s journey witnessed a turning point. The first collaborative session yielded an instant triumph with the hit “Sweet Country Woman,” elevating him to the Top Ten. Yet, subsequent releases struggled to match that success, leaving Duncan disheartened, prompting a return to his Texan roots. A phone call from a friend would serve as a catalyst, luring Duncan back to Nashville and reigniting his studio endeavors.
During a pivotal phone conversation with Larry Gatlin, words of praise echoed – “John, your vocal prowess rivals the best in country music, why aren’t your records gracing the airwaves?” Gatlin’s offer to produce a session yielded “Jo And The Cowboy,” a track that, while not a chart-topping sensation, introduced the world to the talented Janie Fricke.
This collaboration marked a turning point, as Fricke became an integral part of Duncan’s subsequent records. Resuming collaboration with Sherrill, the release of Kris Kristofferson’s “Stranger” marked a notable comeback, climbing to the Top Five. Yet, Duncan’s aspiration for a number one hit remained insatiable.
The moment arrived swiftly with the follow-up release, “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous,” propelling Duncan to the apex of Billboard’s country singles chart on December 11, 1976. This achievement marked the first of three chart-topping moments for him.
Ironically, “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous” etched its place as Duncan’s inaugural chart-topper. Delving into history, we find that co-writer Sonny Throckmorton, years earlier, had recorded Duncan’s own composition in a New Mexico studio. With the creation of “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous,” roles were reversed, intertwining the destinies of two gifted musicians.
Thus, the resounding success of “Thinkin’ Of A Rendezvous” not only signifies a pivotal chapter in Johnny Duncan’s journey but also beautifully weaves the stories of artistic collaboration and determination that echo through the corridors of country music history.
Released: 1977
Artist: Johnny Duncan
Album: Johnny Duncan
Lyrics
I said, hello, my it’s been such a long time
You said, yes, it has, it’s been a year or more
Then you smiled and asked about my wife and family
I said, Johnny’s six and Judy’s almost four.
But I was thinking how I’d love to get you alone for one hour
Down at the Family Inn like we used to do
We kept talking like nothing ever happened
But I was making small talk, thinking of a rendezvous.
You said, are you still working down at the factory
I said, yes I am, guess I’ll be there til I die
You asked me if I still went down to Joe’s Place
I said, ya, I do, but it’s been a long, long time.
But I was thinking how I’d love to get you alone for one hour
Down at the Family Inn like we used to do
We kept talking like nothing ever happened
But I was making small talk, thinking of a rendezvous.
And you said, gotta go, sure been nice to see you
But I told Jack that I’d be home by nine
I said, by the way tell him I said, hello
And we’ll all have to get together sometime.
But I was thinking how I’d love to get you alone for one hour
Down at the Family Inn like we used to do
We kept talking like nothing ever happened
But I was making small talk, thinking of a rendezvous…
