About the Song
“Every Time It Rains (Lord, Don’t It Pour)”, released in 1999, is a deeply emotional ballad by George Strait that captures the raw pain of loss and the overwhelming feeling of longing for a loved one who is no longer present. Written by Bill Anderson and Dean Dillon, the song uses the metaphor of rain to convey the sorrow and emotional downpour that the narrator experiences when thinking about their lost love.
In “Every Time It Rains (Lord, Don’t It Pour)”, the narrator compares the heavy rain to the sadness that fills their heart whenever they’re reminded of their lost love. The lyrics express the emotional weight of the relationship’s end, with each raindrop symbolizing the pain and longing they feel. The narrator’s desire for relief from the emotional storm is clear, yet there’s also an acceptance of the grief that follows the loss. The repeated refrain “Lord, don’t it pour” intensifies the feeling of being overwhelmed, amplifying the sense of helplessness and emotional flooding.
Musically, “Every Time It Rains (Lord, Don’t It Pour)” features George Strait’s signature smooth, baritone voice paired with a gentle, country arrangement. The song’s soft instrumentation, including a subtle steel guitar and piano, creates a reflective atmosphere, allowing the song’s message to resonate deeply. Strait’s voice is calm but filled with the emotion of the lyrics, capturing the vulnerability and sorrow of the narrator. His delivery brings a sense of intimacy, making the listener feel the weight of his emotional experience.
Released as part of Strait’s “Always Never the Same” album, “Every Time It Rains (Lord, Don’t It Pour)” became a fan favorite, praised for its heartfelt lyrics and George Strait’s ability to convey deep emotion with simplicity. While it may not have been one of his more commercially successful hits, the song stands out for its emotional honesty and its universal themes of love, loss, and longing. “Every Time It Rains (Lord, Don’t It Pour)” remains a poignant reminder of the healing process and the emotional storms we weather after a heartache.