Unveiling the Tale: “Seven Year Ache” by Rosanne Cash
When it comes to chasing dreams, life often takes unexpected turns. Rosanne Cash, renowned for her exceptional country music talent, had a different path in mind. Initially drawn to the allure of acting, she pursued a drama major at Nashville’s Vanderbilt University. However, fate had other plans in store for her.
Venturing to California to attend the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, Cash received a remarkable offer from Ariola Records in Germany to create an album. Little did she know, this opportunity would become an arduous and soul-searching journey.
Burdened by an overwhelming lack of confidence in her vocal abilities, Cash spiraled into a profound depression. The completion of her debut project took painstaking months, only to be met with disappointment when Ariola decided not to release the album. Despite this setback, fate intertwined with her family’s legacy as Columbia Records, the same label her father, Johnny Cash, was associated with, took notice of her work.
Although Columbia didn’t release the album either, they saw potential in Cash and invited her to record a new one. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Rodney Crowell, who would play a significant role in her musical journey. Their first encounter occurred at a party on October 16, 1976, and despite her mother’s reservations, Rosanne found herself captivated by Crowell. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage on April 7, 1979.
A turning point arrived when Rodney produced “No Memories Hangin’ ‘Round,” a heartfelt duet between Rosanne and Bobby Bare, at Emmylou Harris’ residence in Los Angeles. The single quickly climbed to #17 on Billboard’s country chart, marking Cash’s introduction to the music industry. With the momentum building, she embarked on her next project at Davien Sound Studio in North Hollywood, giving birth to her iconic album, “Seven Year Ache.”
The album’s eponymous track emerged from a deeply personal place within Cash’s heart. It was born from a heated argument she had with Rodney at a French restaurant on Ventura Boulevard, Los Angeles. Channeling her emotions into music, Cash poured her heart and soul into crafting “Seven Year Ache,” a process that consumed nearly six months of her life.
Inspiration for the song stemmed from Rickie Lee Jones’ self-titled debut album, which resonated deeply with Rosanne. She marveled at the rawness and honesty found in what she referred to as “street songs,” recognizing a void in country music where such themes were scarce. The restaurant dispute between Rosanne and Rodney served as a poignant catalyst, as they parted ways, leaving each other stranded on the streets. Moved by the experience, Cash transformed her emotions into a heartfelt poem, which ultimately evolved into the soul-stirring masterpiece that is “Seven Year Ache.”
On May 23, 1981, Rosanne Cash achieved a significant milestone as “Seven Year Ache” soared to the top of Billboard’s country singles chart. It became the first of her 11 number one hits, solidifying her position as a trailblazer in the realm of country music.
The story behind “Seven Year Ache” encompasses the trials and triumphs of an artist finding her voice amidst personal and professional challenges. It is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength of passion, and the indomitable spirit that fuels musical legacies.
Artist: Rosanne Cash
Album: Seven Year Ache
Released: 1981
Nominations: Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance
Lyrics
You act like you were just born tonight
Face down in a memory but feeling all right
So, who does your past belong to today?
Baby, you don’t say nothing when you’re feeling this way
Girls in the bars thinking who is this guy
But they don’t think nothing when they’re telling you lies
You look so careless when they’re shooting that bull
Don’t you know heartaches are heroes when their pockets are full
Tell me you’re trying to cure a seven-year ache
See what else your old heart can take
Boys say, “When is he gonna give us some room”
The girls say, “God, I hope he comes back soon”
And everybody’s talking but you don’t hear a thing
You’re still uptown on your downhill swing
The boulevard’s empty, why don’t you come around?
Baby, what is so great about sleeping downtown?
There’s plenty of dives to be someone you’re not
Just say you’re looking for something you might have forgot
Don’t bother calling to say you’re leaving alone
‘Cause there’s a fool on every corner when you’re trying to get home
Just tell ’em you’re trying to cure a seven-year ache
See what else your old heart can take
Boys say, “When is he gonna give us some room”
But the girls say, “God, I hope he comes back soon”
Tell me you’re trying to cure a seven-year ache
See what else your old heart can take
Boys say, “When is he gonna give us some room”
The girls say, “God, I hope he comes back soon”
