Neighborhood Girl
Statler Brothers · Bed of Roses [Mercury] [1970]
It started about the time she was born
Her risen' above the raisin' of corn
Her midwestern dream of winnin' the world
And she was always my neighborhood girl.
She made cheerleader and I made the team
I carried her books while she carried her dreams
Of magazine covers and Hollywood worlds
And she was always my neighborhood girl.
I went in the Navy when war came along
And cried every time I heard a love song
For as I was sailin' halfway around the world
I still loved my neighborhood girl.
--- Instrumental ---
I came home one Christmas on thirty days leave
The things that I heard I couldn't believe
She still had dreams that were out of this world
But she was now the neighborhood girl.
Two wars have come and gone in between
And all of my sons are now in their teens
I read in the paper she's now left this world
And I cried one last time for my neighborhood girl.
My neighborhood girl...
Neighborhood Girl
Recorded by the Statler Brothers on their 1970 Mercury album Bed of Roses, "Neighborhood Girl" exemplifies the duo's signature blend of gospel roots and country storytelling. The track features the brothers' characteristic harmonies and vocal interplay, delivering a narrative that resonates with themes of small-town life and enduring affection. As part of their extensive discography spanning the early 1970s, the song reflects the era's musical landscape where traditional gospel techniques were seamlessly integrated with country pop sensibilities. The recording stands as a testament to the Statler Brothers' ability to craft emotionally resonant ballads that bridged religious and secular audiences, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential vocal duos in American music history.