About the song
Good evening, my friends, and welcome back to our shared exploration of the enduring classics that truly define the heart of country music. Tonight, we’re going to celebrate a song that, while perhaps not as overtly mournful as some of his most famous ballads, showcases the sheer joy and sincerity that Keith Whitley could bring to a performance. We’re talking about his wonderfully optimistic track, “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right”.
For anyone who appreciates the pure, unadulterated sound of traditional country music, Keith Whitley remains a benchmark. His voice, as we’ve discussed before, was a gift – smooth yet powerful, imbued with an authenticity that made every lyric believable. He had that rare ability to connect directly with the listener’s emotions, whether he was singing about heartbreak or, as in this case, about the simple, profound pleasure of being loved well.
“Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” was released in 1988, a key track from his seminal album Don’t Close Your Eyes. Coming near the end of his tragically short career, it stands as a bright, optimistic counterpoint to some of his more melancholic hits. The song is a straightforward declaration of contentment, a joyful acknowledgment of a relationship that is bringing profound happiness and a sense of being truly cherished. It’s the kind of tune that makes you smile, perhaps even tap your foot, and reminds you of the quiet strength found in a loving partnership.
What makes this song particularly appealing for an audience of our experience is its mature perspective on love. It’s not about grand gestures or fleeting passion, but about the steady, consistent effort of a partner who truly cares. The lyrics speak to the comfort and security found in a relationship where one feels truly seen and valued – “They’re callin’ me up when I’m feelin’ down / They’re always around to turn my world around.” This isn’t just puppy love; it’s the kind of deep affection that builds over time and truly anchors a person.
Keith Whitley’s delivery on “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” is, as always, impeccable. There’s a genuine warmth and a palpable sense of gratitude in his voice. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies the feeling of quiet joy and profound appreciation. The instrumentation is classic country – steady, melodic, and supportive of his magnificent voice, allowing it to shine through with all its nuanced purity. It’s a testament to his versatility that he could convey such deep sorrow in one song and such heartfelt contentment in another, all with the same disarming honesty. For those of us who value genuine emotion and a timeless sound, “Somebody’s Doin’ Me Right” remains a beautiful, uplifting example of Keith Whitley at his absolute best.
Video
Lyrics
Runnin’ around
I’ve spent my whole life runnin’ around
Settlin’ down
I never dreamed I’d be settlin’ down
But something’s comin’ over me
Woman, you have got a hold on me
And the reason just might be
You’re so good to me, yeah
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
It’s alright
Oh yeah, it’s alright
Set in my ways
Thinkin’ that love would only get in my way
But now I’m wantin’ to stay
I like this feelin’ of wantin’ to stay
Really it’s no mystery
What brought all this change in me
You’re the one who made me see
How love was meant to be, yeah
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
It’s alright
Alright
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s holdin’ me tight
Sharin’ my days and my nights
Somebody I really like
Just took a hold of my hand
You make me feel like a man
There’s been a change in my life
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Whoa, whoa
Somebody’s doin’ me right
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa
Somebody’s doin’ me right
