Song Spotlight: “You’re The Reason Our Kids Are Ugly”

Country Duet genre
  • Mood: Comedic
  • Themes: Comedy, Duets
  • Tempo: Upbeat
  • Genre/Style: Country Duet

Early in the 1970s, Loretta Lynn decided to team up with fellow country star Conway Twitty. Loretta Lynn showed the country music world that she was not only a strong solo artist, but also a fabulous duet singer.

From 1971 to 1988, Lynn and Twitty released 11 studio albums and 12 singles. On stage, they displayed a strong musical connection that captivated audiences. Their famous performances of love songs even led others to assume they were married. Eventually they became the most awarded duo in country music.

In 1978, the pair released, “You’re The Reason Our Kids are Ugly” which proved they not only were masters of songs of breakup and love, but of comedy, too. This song is about a couple poking fun at each other, but always ending on an endearing and positive note. 

Here are some of the lyrics:

You’re the reason I’m ridin’ ’round on recapped tyres

An’ you’re the reason I’m hangin’ our clothes outside on walls

An’ you’re the reason our kids are ugly, little darling

Ah, but looks ain’t everything

And money ain’t everything

But, I love you just the same

 

You’re the reason I changed to beer from soda pop

An’ you’re the reason I never get to go to the beauty shop

You’re the reason our kids are ugly, little darling

Oh, but looks ain’t everything

And money ain’t everything

But, I love you just the same

Isn’t that great?

Of course, some of the most special relationships we have are a mix of ups and downs, with both serious and light hearted moments. This is a great song to bring up other humorous songs and memories and can be a great reminder to not take life too seriously. It can be used as a transition into reminiscence of funny family memories, jokes, or an opportunity for musical engagement on instruments, singing, and more! 

Try This:

Theme: Comedy, Duets – This song would fit well into a comedic or humorous program or featuring other famous music duos. It might fit in well with an April Fool’s Day set as well.

Reminisce: Encourage the group to reminisce by sharing their favorite humorous memories or invite the group to share their favorite jokes, or try pulling jokes from a hat and have group members read them. Other complementary songs may include “Witch Doctor,” “Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man,” and “I’ve Got You Babe.”

Musical Engagement: Divide the group into two with shakers and bells or two other instruments with distinctly different sounds. Have one side play when Conway Twitty sings and when Loretta Lynn sings, and play as a group when they sing together.

Movement: You can do rhythmic movement to this song, or give seated line dancing a try to this country tune.

What are some of your favorite duet songs ? What other Loretta Lynn or Conway Twitty songs do you enjoy? Please leave your comments below!

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