About the Song
George Strait, the undisputed “King of Country,” has a knack for capturing the complexities of love and longing in his music. In “We Really Shouldn’t Be Doing This,” he delivers a classic Strait ballad that explores the forbidden fruit theme with his signature blend of honesty, restraint, and emotional depth. This song, from his 1999 album Always Never the Same, isn’t about teenage rebellion or fleeting infatuation. Instead, it delves into the mature territory of a love that’s both irresistible and undeniably wrong.
The song opens with a gentle, almost hesitant acoustic guitar, setting the stage for a tale of illicit romance. Strait’s voice, rich and weathered like well-worn leather, immediately draws you into the narrative. He paints a picture of a clandestine encounter, fueled by undeniable chemistry and a shared awareness of its transgression. Lines like “We oughta say no, but it’s way too late for that” and “It’s a matter of conscience, I know we both agree” perfectly encapsulate the inner turmoil of two people caught in the throes of a forbidden love.
What makes “We Really Shouldn’t Be Doing This” so compelling is its lack of judgment. Strait doesn’t condemn the characters; he simply presents their story with understanding and empathy. He acknowledges the pull of desire, the struggle between head and heart, and the bittersweet knowledge that this love is ultimately unsustainable. The song’s beauty lies in its subtlety and nuance. It’s a quiet storm of emotions, conveyed through Strait’s masterful vocal delivery and the song’s understated arrangement.
As the song progresses, the listener is drawn deeper into the emotional landscape. The melody builds gradually, mirroring the escalating passion, while steel guitar accents add a touch of melancholy, hinting at the inevitable heartbreak. Strait’s vocals remain restrained, never veering into melodrama, which only serves to heighten the song’s impact. He masterfully conveys the characters’ vulnerability and their quiet desperation, leaving the listener to ponder the consequences of their actions.
“We Really Shouldn’t Be Doing This” is a testament to George Strait’s enduring appeal. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the allure of the forbidden, the thrill of the clandestine, and the bittersweet ache of a love that cannot be. With its timeless theme and Strait’s impeccable artistry, this song remains a standout in his impressive catalog, a reminder that even the most seasoned storyteller can find fresh perspectives on the age-old complexities of love and desire.