Roger Miller, Husbands and Wives | Throwback Vibez

In the 169^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Husbands and Wives” by legendary country singer/songwriter Roger Miller.

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 169^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Husbands and Wives” performed by Roger Miller.  

Noted, Roger Miller (1936 – 1992). If it is a bit hard to decipher what the 11-time Grammy-winning musician is insinuating, those lyrics speak volumes within the context of “Husbands and Wives”. Miller penned and performed many novel country gems during his career.  Furthermore, many of his songs have been covered by others, including the song at hand. “Husbands and Wives” is the second track from his 1966 album, Words and Music by Roger Miller. Written by Miller, “Wives” performed respectably on the pop charts, peaking at number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Miller is accompanied by a sweet instrumental on “Husband and Wives.” Fueling his fire is piano, bass, guitar, and light drums.  His vocal performance is warm and easygoing.  Even if Miller is chill, his performance is potent, bringing his tuneful melodies and thoughtful songwriting to life.  It begins in the verses, where there are “Two broken hearts lonely,” and “Two people each havin’ so much pride inside / Neither side forgives.” Oh, snap! Then, there’s the unforgettable chorus, where Miller never spoke truer words:

“The angry words spoken in haste

Such a waste of two lives

It’s my belief pride is the chief cause in the decline

In the number of husbands and wives.”

“Husbands and Wives” is an oldie – it hails from the 1960s.  But, is this song an anachronism thematically? Absolutely not.  Love and heartbreak are universal, and have been for a long, long time.  This country gem right here is timeless.

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Roger Miller » Words and Music by Roger Miller » UMG Recordings, Inc. » 1966

Roger Miller, Husbands and Wives: Throwback Vibez No. 169 (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; UMG Recordings, Inc.; AcatXlo, OpenClipart-Vectors, Speedy McVroom from Pixabay]

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