Teach 'em How To Swim
Hank Thompson · Hank Thompson & His Brazos Val [2003]
You told me lies you let me on then turned me down for him
You took my heart tore it all apart and then threw it away
And now that it's all over babe here's all I can say
Oh take my glass fill it up fill it to the brim
If I can't drown my troubles babe I'll teach 'em how to swim
If I can't teach 'em how to swim I'll teach 'em how to float
So please just pass one more glass to please my dusty throat
Grandpa's swallowed his first drink when he was only eight
The doctor warned him then and there to stop before it was too late
But grandpa was a real strong man he wouldn't heed the plea
Now he's done drink hisself to death he died at ninety-three
So since my grandpa lived so long I want to be like him
If I can't drown my troubles babe I'll teach 'em how to swim
So here I sit in this old bar my future's looking dim
If I can't drown my troubles babe I'll teach 'em how to swim
Oh take my glass fill it up...
Teach 'em How To Swim
Hank Thompson stands as a defining figure in Western swing, renowned for blending traditional country instrumentation with the energetic rhythms of jazz and swing. His extensive discography reflects a career built on lively danceable tracks and heartfelt ballads that resonated with audiences across generations. "Teach 'em How To Swim" serves as a vibrant example of his signature sound, showcasing the tight ensemble work of his backing group, the Brazos Valley Boys. The recording captures the spirited essence of Thompson's live performances, characterized by driving fiddle lines and a rhythmic pulse designed to get listeners moving. This track highlights his enduring ability to craft engaging music that bridges the gap between classic country traditions and the upbeat energy of swing, cementing his legacy as a master of the genre.