Introduction:
Fourteen Carat Mind is a quintessential country ballad by the legendary singer Gene Watson. Released in 1981 as part of his album Old Loves Never Die, the song quickly became a staple of country radio and a testament to Watson’s powerful vocal delivery and emotional depth.
Produced by Gene Watson himself alongside Russ Reeder, “Fourteen Carat Mind” is a masterclass in traditional country music. The song’s instrumentation is sparse, allowing Watson’s voice to take center stage. His rich baritone effortlessly conveys the heartache and longing of a man deeply affected by a lost love.
Penned by songwriting duo Dallas Frazier and Larry Lee, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man haunted by memories of a woman with a “fourteen carat mind.” The metaphor is striking, suggesting a woman of exceptional intelligence and wit, whose absence has left an irreplaceable void in the narrator’s life.
“Fourteen Carat Mind” resonated deeply with country music fans and critics alike. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Watson’s other hits, it solidified his reputation as one of the genre’s most respected and enduring vocalists. The song remains a beloved classic, often featured on country radio stations and included in countless “greatest hits” compilations.
Beyond its commercial impact, “Fourteen Carat Mind” is a testament to Watson’s ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless quality of the song and the artistry of its performers.
Video:
Lyrics:
Fourteen Carat Mind
I still recall the morning that I met youStanding out in front of Wilson’s five and dimeStaring through the window at the jewelryHungry for the things you couldn’t buyJust like a fool I thought that I could please youI saw you had an eye for things that shineI paid seven saw mill dollars for a braceletJust to satisfy your fourteen carat mindLayin’ by these railroad tracks in DenverWith a hurtin’ head and a half a pint of wineEverything except my soul has been surrenderedJust to satisfy your fourteen carat mindThe cabin that I built in West VirginiaWas not enough to keep you satisfied‘Cause a man that’s got a saw mill occupationCan’t afford to feed a rich girls’ appetiteI wonder if you’re still with Willie JacksonSometimes I wonder if he’s still aliveOl’ Willie he gave up his wife and childrenJust to satisfy your fourteen carat mindLayin’ by these railroad tracks in DenverWith a hurtin’ head and a half a pint of wineEverything except my soul has been surrenderedJust to satisfy your fourteen carat mindJust to satisfy your fourteen carat mind