Big Ol' Empty House
Steve Wariner · Burnin' the Roadhouse Down [Capitol] [1998]
Of a mansion on the hill
Was a sign for sale by owner
Taped up on the windowsill
The man said let me tell you
A little about this place
And as he spoke she noticed
A tear roll down his face
It's a big ol' empty house
Where there used to be a home
There's a big ol' broken heart
That's been living there alone
If you fill it up with love
Oh, that's what it's all about
If you don't you'll wind up livin'
In a big ol' empty house
She pulled out a blank check
Took a pen and signed her name
She said both our situations
Seems like they're one and the same
She said all this money
Is just what I settled for
But what I really wanted
I guess we could not afford
There's a big ol' empty house
Where there used to be a home
There's a big ol' broken heart
That's been living in there alone
If you fill it up with love
Oh, that's what it's all about
If you don't you'll wind up livin'
In a big ol' empty house
If you don't you'll wind up livin'
In a big ol' empty house...
Big Ol' Empty House
Steve Wariner's 'Big Ol' Empty House' stands as a defining track from his 1998 album 'Burnin' the Roadhouse Down,' capturing the melancholic essence of the country-pop genre. The song features Wariner's signature smooth vocal delivery, blending heartfelt emotion with a polished production style that became a hallmark of his career during the late 1990s. Released during a period where he was solidifying his status as a leading figure in modern country music, the recording showcases his ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners while maintaining commercial appeal. The track reflects the broader trends of the era, where traditional country storytelling merged with pop sensibilities to create a sound that was both nostalgic and forward-looking. It remains a testament to Wariner's skill in crafting memorable melodies and evocative lyrics that explore themes of solitude and longing.