Check Out Freddy Fender’s “You’ll Lose A Good Thing,” An Ultimatum With A Catchy Melody

In 1975, Freddy Fender released “You’ll Lose a Good Thing” off his album Rock’ n’ Country. 

The song was originally released by rhythm and blues artist Barbara Lynn in 1962. While fender made it into a country ballad, he made sure he kept those bluesy, soulful elements that made the song one of the beloved tunes of all time.

Freddy Fender‘s rendition reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. It also crossed over into the pop chart, peaking at No. 32 on Billboard Hot 100.

Here’s How An Ultimatum Turned Into A Catchy Melody

Written by Barbara Lynn, “You’ll Lose a Good Thing” is a grudge-bearing ballad. It tells the story of a man who does everything for his lover. Sadly, she often wanders, “parading every guy in town.” Still, he’s giving her another chance. He knows that if only she’d straighten up, they would surely have a good life. However, he told her he’s ready to walk out of her life if she chooses not to make things right.

After all, “if you lose me, oh yes, you’ll lose a good thing,” the man sings.

Lynn wrote the song after finding out her boyfriend was talking to another girl. Feeling devastated, she told him the infamous line, “if you lose me, you’ll lose a good thing,” and spent the whole night crying. She woke up the following day and turned her ultimatum into a catchy melody.

Over a decade later, Freddy Fender made it into one of the biggest hits in country music. He recorded the song when his career was at its peak, with Freddy Fender songs dominating the country chart. Since then, many other artists have recorded “You’ll Lose a Good Thing.” This includes Aretha Franklin, Dina Carroll, and Lucinda Williams.

Tune in below and listen to “You’ll Lose a Good Thing” by Freddy Fender.