Heartaches by the Number

Dottie West · A Legend in My Time/The Sound of Country Music [Co [2004]

(Harlan Howard)



Heartache number one was when you left me

I never knew that I could hurt this way

And heartache number two was when you come back again

You came back but never meant to stay.



Now I've got heartaches by the number

Troubles by the score

Every day you love me less

Each day I love you more.



Yes, I've got heartaches by the number

A love that I can't win

But the day that I stop counting

That's the day my world will end.



--- Instrumental ---



Heartache number three was when you called me

And said that you were coming back to stay

With hopeful heart I waited for your knock on the door

I waited but you must have lost your way.



Now I've got heartaches by the number

Troubles by the score

Every day you love me less

Each day I love you more.



Yes, I've got heartaches by the number

A love that I can't win

But the day that I stop counting

That's the day my world will end...

Heartaches by the Number

Dottie West's rendition of "Heartaches by the Number" stands as a testament to her enduring presence in the country music landscape. Known for her distinctive vocal style and emotional delivery, West navigated the genre with a blend of traditional country roots and contemporary polish. This recording captures her ability to convey deep sentiment, a hallmark of her extensive discography that includes numerous chart-topping hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The song reflects the classic themes of love and loss that defined her career, showcasing her skill in interpreting material that resonated with audiences across generations. As part of her broader body of work, this track highlights West's contribution to the evolution of country music, cementing her legacy as a significant artist who influenced the sound of her era.