“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something timeless about those songs that speak to life’s little moments of isolation, and Flowers on the Wall by The Statler Brothers is no exception. It’s the kind of song that can make you laugh and reflect all at once. The image of a man amusing himself by counting flowers on the wall captures both a sense of resignation and whimsical humor—qualities that many of us have felt in moments of solitude. In the 1960s, when pop music was dominated by big, sweeping statements, this song came along as a wry and down-to-earth reflection of a simpler reality.
About the Composition
- Title: Flowers on the Wall
- Composer: Lew DeWitt
- Premiere Date: November 1965
- Album: Flowers on the Wall
- Genre: Country, Country Pop
Background
The Statler Brothers, known for their smooth harmonies and humor-laced storytelling, hit the jackpot with Flowers on the Wall. Written by Lew DeWitt, one of the original members of the group, the song captures the feelings of loneliness and introspection in a way that’s both melancholy and charming. Released as the lead single from their 1966 album, Flowers on the Wall, the song quickly gained popularity, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even crossing over to the pop charts, peaking at number four. The song struck a chord in the mid-’60s, offering a lighthearted but poignant commentary on the mundane aspects of life that many could relate to.
Musical Style
Flowers on the Wall stands out for its catchy and simple arrangement, which complements its narrative lyrics perfectly. The song features a soft, rhythmic country sound infused with a gentle pop sensibility. Its use of acoustic guitars, bass, and understated percussion creates an easy-going, toe-tapping feel that makes the seemingly mundane activity of counting flowers on the wall sound like a whimsical pastime. The Statler Brothers’ tight vocal harmonies lend the song a rich texture, with their trademark baritone and tenor interplay making the tune instantly recognizable.
Lyrics
The lyrics of Flowers on the Wall tell the story of a man who seems to be occupying himself with trivial activities—counting flowers on the wall, playing solitaire with a deck of 51, smoking cigarettes, and watching Captain Kangaroo. These actions reflect a sense of aimless distraction, masking a deeper feeling of loneliness or perhaps a refusal to acknowledge it. There’s humor in the absurdity of these pastimes, but also a layer of melancholy, as the speaker attempts to convince himself that he’s doing just fine, when in fact, his situation is far from ideal.
Performance History
The Statler Brothers’ Flowers on the Wall became an instant classic upon its release in 1965. The group performed the song on several major platforms, including television shows like The Ed Sullivan Show, which helped introduce their distinctive sound to a broader audience. Over the years, the song has been covered by a variety of artists, from Eric Heatherly’s country-rock version to a rendition by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. in the soundtrack of Pulp Fiction. Each version highlights the song’s versatility and staying power.
Cultural Impact
Flowers on the Wall has transcended its original country music roots to become a cultural touchstone. Its appearance in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction (1994) gave the song a second life among a younger audience, demonstrating its timeless appeal. The song has also been referenced in numerous television shows and films over the years, its whimsical lyrics often used to evoke feelings of solitude or ironic contentment. The enduring humor and relatability of the song’s message have made it a lasting favorite across generations.
Legacy
Nearly six decades after its release, Flowers on the Wall continues to resonate with listeners. It’s one of those songs that people turn to when they’re feeling a little lost or bored, but also want to smile at life’s absurdities. For The Statler Brothers, the song cemented their place in music history and became a signature tune that defined their early career. Its simplicity and wit ensure that it will always have a place in the hearts of country music fans and casual listeners alike.
Conclusion
Flowers on the Wall is more than just a song about counting wallpaper patterns; it’s a reflection on how we cope with boredom, loneliness, and the passage of time. Whether you listen to it for its catchy tune or its deeper meaning, there’s something universally comforting about it. I encourage anyone who hasn’t given it a full listen recently to revisit this classic, and for those discovering it for the first time, you’re in for a delightful blend of humor and introspection. Check out The Statler Brothers’ original performance or explore some of the great covers that have kept this song alive over the years.
Video
Lyrics
I keep hearin’ you’re concerned about my happiness
But all that thought you’re givin’ me is conscience I guess
If I were walkin’ in your shoes, I wouldn’t worry none
While you and your friends are worried about me, I’m havin’ lots of fun
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Last night I dressed in tails, pretended I was on the town
As long as I can dream it’s hard to slow this swinger down
So please don’t give a thought to me, I’m really doin’ fine
You can always find me here, I’m havin’ quite a time
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
It’s good to see you, I must go, I know I look a fright
Anyway my eyes are not accustomed to this light
And my shoes are not accustomed to this hard concrete
So I must go back to my room and make my day complete
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do