Introduction
Imagine being pulled into a tale of a drifter, a fast car, and a tempting yet dangerous love. Ricky Van Shelton’s 1987 hit, “Crime of Passion,” dives into the thrill of romance intertwined with betrayal.
About The Composition
- Title: Crime of Passion
- Composers: Walt Aldridge, Mac McAnally
- Premiere Date: April 18, 1987
- Album: Wild-Eyed Dream
- Genre: Country
Background
This song, crafted by seasoned songwriters, takes listeners through a gripping narrative of trust broken and innocence lost, painting vivid scenes with Shelton’s powerful vocals. The song became a notable entry on Shelton’s debut album, resonating with audiences and reaching impressive chart positions.
Musical Style
“Crime of Passion” showcases a classic country style with Shelton’s rich, emotive voice supported by traditional instrumentation that emphasizes the story’s tension and unfolding drama.
Lyrics
The lyrics delve into a tale of a drifter led astray by a mysterious woman, portraying both desperation and betrayal in a vividly cinematic way. This is Shelton’s storytelling at its best, bringing a classic country trope to life.
Performance History
Upon release, the song held strong on the charts, reaching #7 on the U.S. Hot Country Songs, demonstrating Shelton’s rising influence in country music.
Cultural Impact
“Crime of Passion” remains a staple in classic country, admired for its blend of storytelling and Shelton’s compelling delivery. The song has since inspired numerous covers and retains its place as a quintessential 80s country ballad.
Legacy
With Shelton’s voice embodying heartbreak and caution, “Crime of Passion” continues to resonate with listeners, preserving its legacy in country music as a timeless tale of love gone wrong
Video
Lyrics
She had a rag-top Eldorado, “tuck-in-row pleat”.
She picked me up in Colorado…and put me right in the drivers seat.
I said “I got no money…you know I got no job”.
She said “I tell you what honey…let’s find a place to rob”.
Now the man at the station’s name was Jim…I saw it sewed on his shirt.
I told him “do what I say…you’ll live another day…nobody’s gotta get
hurt”.
It was a crime of passion.
She took me by the heart when she took me by the hand.
Crime of passion.
A beautiful woman and a desperate man.
Well I thought the thing was over…she was countin’ the cash.
When an unmarked Chevy Nova, made the blue lights flash.
She said “officer? Would you help me please?”
I looked at her…and she was pointin’ at me.
You see Jim at the station played his part…he talked a little perjury.
He went to great pains…to leave out a name…he was a future ex-husband
…can’t you see?
It was a crime of passion.
She took me by the heart when she took me by the hand.
Crime of passion.
A beautiful woman and a desperate man.
Now the cop at the station’s name was Joe…saw it on his badge on his shirt.
He said “you’ll never get away…just do what we say…nobody’s gotta get
hurt.”
It was a crime of passion.
She took me by the heart when she took me by the hand.
Crime of passion.
A beautiful woman and a desperate man.
Crime of passion…
It was a crime of passion…