56 Years Ago: “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” Becomes Tammy Wynette’s 4th #1 Song

Tammy Wynette’s 1968 classic, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” stands as a timeless testament to the emotional intricacies of family life and marital strife.

Released as a single in April of that year, the song became an immediate hit, topping the Billboard Country chart and even crossing over into the pop charts, reaching number 63. Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, the song became one of Wynette’s signature pieces, cementing her status as the “First Lady of Country Music.”

“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” tells the heart-wrenching story of a woman trying to protect her young child from the pain and turmoil of her crumbling marriage.

By spelling out words like “divorce” and “custody,” she attempts to shield her son from the harsh realities that are about to change their lives forever. This poignant narrative resonated deeply with many listeners, particularly during a time when divorce was a stigmatized and often unspoken subject.

Tammy Wynette’s delivery is a masterclass in conveying raw emotion. Her voice, with its unique blend of vulnerability and strength, captures the essence of a mother’s love and the pain of an impending separation. Wynette’s ability to articulate such profound feelings helped the song connect with a wide audience, making it more than just a piece of music, but a mirror reflecting the struggles faced by many families.

“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” was a bold move in country music at the time, tackling a subject that many felt was too sensitive and controversial.

Yet, it was this bravery that made the song so significant. It spoke directly to the lived experiences of many listeners, particularly women, and opened up a conversation about the realities of domestic life and the impact of divorce on families. Wynette knew about this impact all too well. It had already affected her once, and would again with George Jones.

The song’s success was a milestone in Wynette’s career, earning her widespread acclaim and further establishing her reputation as an artist unafraid to address difficult subjects through her music. Its impact can still be felt today, as “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” remains a poignant reminder of the power of music to articulate the deepest human emotions and to give voice to experiences that might otherwise remain unspoken.

Watch Wynette perform “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” below.