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Introduction
When it comes to country music, few voices are as smooth, soulful, and instantly recognizable as Vince Gill’s. “What’s A Man To Do” is one of those songs that taps into the depths of human emotion, and it showcases Gill’s incredible ability to convey vulnerability and heartache with sincerity. Released in 2006 on his critically acclaimed These Days album, the track stands out as a poignant ballad where Gill grapples with the complexities of love, loss, and confusion.
At its core, “What’s A Man To Do” is about that universal feeling of helplessness when love starts to fade. Gill captures the raw emotion of a man who’s standing on the edge, uncertain of how to save a relationship slipping through his fingers. You can feel the weight of his indecision—should he fight to keep the love alive, or does he walk away? This conflict makes the song so relatable because we’ve all been there, in that moment of doubt, wondering what our next move should be.
Gill’s performance is nothing short of captivating. His voice, tender and aching, draws you in from the first note. It’s as if he’s sitting across from you, confessing his innermost thoughts. The slow, deliberate melody mirrors the introspection of the lyrics, allowing each word to sink in and resonate. The gentle guitar work and understated production create a sense of intimacy, making the listener feel like they’re part of the story.
One of the most compelling aspects of this song is its lyrical honesty. Gill doesn’t sugarcoat the pain—he lays it all out, raw and real. Lines like “I’ve tried everything I know / But still, it seems like we’re losing ground” hit hard because they reflect the frustration of trying to hold onto something that feels like it’s slipping away. It’s not just a song about heartache; it’s about the quiet desperation that comes with not knowing what to do next.
“What’s A Man To Do” is more than just a song about relationships—it’s a reflection on the human condition. It speaks to those moments when life throws you a curveball, and you’re left standing there, unsure of how to move forward. Vince Gill has always had a way of tapping into those deep, universal feelings, and this song is no exception.
There’s also a sense of maturity in the song. Gill, being an older artist by the time he released this track, brings a wisdom to the table that younger artists might not have. This isn’t a song about the fiery passion of young love—it’s about the challenges that come with years of commitment, when love becomes more complicated, and the stakes are higher. It’s about trying to make things work, even when it feels impossible, and that’s something that hits home for anyone who’s been through the ups and downs of long-term relationships.
In the grand scope of Vince Gill’s career, “What’s A Man To Do” is a gem that might not have had the commercial success of some of his bigger hits, but it holds a special place for those who appreciate the emotional depth and honesty he brings to his music. It’s a reminder that sometimes, life doesn’t offer easy answers, and we’re left to navigate the uncertainties the best we can.
Video
Lyrics
Before the tears I’ve cried
Have even dried
She’ll be with him
They’ll look in each other’s eyes
And with her lips still warm with lies
She’ll kiss him
And though she knows she’s wrong
She just keeps on
Keepin’ me hangin’ on
Tell me
What’s a man to do
When the one he’s promised to
Finds somebody new
Should I just stand by
Watch the love I’ve lived for die
Lord I wish I knew
Tell me what’s a man to do
Instrumental
Maybe I’ll make a stand
Or just wash my hands
Of her forever
But I’ve never been alone
Except for here at home
When they’re together
And though I know it’s wrong
I let her go on
Keepin’ me hangin’ on
Telll me, what’s a man to do
When the one he’s promised to
Finds somebody new
Should I just stand by
Watch the love I’ve lived for die
Lord I wish I knew
Tell me what’s a man to do
Tell me what’s a man to do