Multi-awarded country singer Ricky Skaggs sings an uplifting anthem for broken hearts with his single “You May See Me Walkin’.’” Written by Tom Uhr from the band Shady Grove Ramblers, the track was the second single from Skaggs’ album Waitin for the Sun to Shine. It sneaked as No. 9 into the Top 10 Billboard Hot Country Chart after its release in August 1981.
With “You May See Me Walkin’'” on the tracklist, Skaggs’ third studio album was later awarded the Album of the Year by the Country Music Association (CMA) in 1982.
He produced another song from the album called “Crying My Heart Over You,” which became his first chart-topper at the Billboard Hot Country Songs and was added to Skaggs’ greatest hits.
Meaning Behind the Song
Highlighting Ricky Skaggs’ journey to becoming a mainstream country star, “You May See Me Wakin’’ solidified his career in the music industry during the 80s. The rhythmic and vibrant song was accompanied by electric and steel guitars, a mix of piano, and resonant drum beats that demonstrate the positive energy of the lyrics in letting go of the post-breakup pain.
For You
Skaggs was able to combine his bluegrass style and traditional country sound while maintaining the delicate and playful instrumentals consistent throughout the classic record.
The song begins with the singer suggesting that he is finally getting over a relationship after being betrayed. To emphasize the idea of moving on, he sings the lines, “You may see me walkin’, you may hear me talkin’, but the words I speak won’t ever be about you.” After being hurt multiple times, he won’t allow himself to get wounded again, even after his ex insists on changing.
Skaggs’ delivery of the song was straightforward yet impactful as he declares his independence from a past relationship he will no longer be confined to.
Watch Ricky Skaggs’s lively performance of “You May See Me Walkin’” in the video below.
