Introduction
In the summer of 2020, Thomas Rhett and Morgan Wallen found themselves in a virtual songwriting session, struggling to find inspiration for a new track. Then, an unexpected phone call from Wallen’s grandmother changed everything. That heartfelt conversation became the spark for “Mamaw’s House,” a deeply personal song celebrating the warmth, love, and cherished memories of a grandmother’s home.
About the Composition
Title: Mamaw’s House
Songwriters: Thomas Rhett & Morgan Wallen
Release Date: September 29, 2023
Album: 20 Number Ones
Genre: Country
Background
“Mamaw’s House” was conceived in August 2020, inspired by a phone call between Wallen and his grandmother during a Zoom songwriting session with Thomas Rhett. After sharing a snippet of the song on social media, it quickly gained attention from fans eagerly anticipating its release. However, it wasn’t until September 25, 2023, that Rhett officially announced the song, sharing a childhood photo in front of his own grandmother’s house.
The song was later included in 20 Number Ones, a compilation album by Rhett, which was released on September 29, 2023. This marked the third collaboration between Rhett and Wallen, following Whiskey’d My Way and Your Bartender from Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album.
Musical Style
“Mamaw’s House” is a heartfelt country ballad featuring a warm acoustic arrangement, complemented by the signature twang of steel guitar, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia. The song opens with an actual recording of Wallen’s phone call with his grandmother, adding an authentic and personal touch. The blend of Wallen’s deep, soulful vocals with Rhett’s smooth and melodic tone creates an emotionally rich listening experience, perfectly encapsulating the song’s message of love and family.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of childhood memories, bringing to life the scents, sights, and sounds of a grandmother’s home. The imagery of buttered biscuits baking in the oven, an old Lincoln parked in the driveway, and the comforting words of a grandmother all contribute to a deeply sentimental narrative.
The chorus emphasizes the idea that Mamaw’s House is more than just a physical place—it’s a sanctuary where life’s worries seem to fade away, and love remains constant.
Performance History
Before its official release, Rhett performed Mamaw’s House live in 2021 in Bristow, Virginia, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from the audience. Following its release, the song quickly climbed the Billboard Country Airplay chart, reaching No. 1 on March 23, 2024—marking Rhett’s 20th and Wallen’s 11th No. 1 hit on the chart.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its musical appeal, Mamaw’s House resonates deeply with listeners by reminding them of their own childhood experiences and family traditions. The song has sparked a wave of nostalgia, with fans sharing their personal stories about their grandmothers and the special places that shaped them. It has been widely shared across social media, reinforcing its cultural significance as a heartfelt tribute to family values and heritage.
Legacy
With its heartfelt lyrics and warm, evocative melodies, Mamaw’s House continues to be a fan favorite, often performed at concerts and celebrated in the country music community. It stands as a reminder of the enduring importance of family and tradition in an ever-changing world.
Conclusion
“Mamaw’s House” is more than just a song—it’s an emotional time capsule filled with love, warmth, and treasured memories. Whether you grew up visiting your grandmother’s house or simply long for the comfort of home, this song strikes a chord with anyone who values family and nostalgia.
Video
Lyrics
[Intro: Morgan Wallen]
Sorry, y’all, my mamaw called me, I’ll, I’ll be right back, hello?
[Verse 1: Morgan Wallen]
It was always hotter than the grease she used to fry that chicken
Smelled like Marlboro Reds and all the butter from her biscuits
And that Lincoln in the driveway, circa 1982
Was on the shiny side of rusty and on the paler side of blue
Cussin’ and complainin’ weren’t allowed at Mamaw’s house
[Chorus: Morgan Wallen]
If every nightstand had a Bible, every front porch had a swing
If every backyard had a garden, every front door had a screen
Well, maybe this crazy world would straighten up and slow on down
If every town had a Mamaw’s house
[Verse 2: Thomas Rhett]
She’d ask if I was hungry every thirty seconds
And say things like “hellfire,” “tarnation,” and “I reckon’s”
It’s where I spent my summers and she put me to work
Shellin’ peas and shuckin’ corn until my fingers hurt
No tellin’ who I’da been without Mamaw’s house
[Chorus: Thomas Rhett]
If every nightstand had a Bible, every front porch had a swing
If every backyard had a garden, every front door had a screen
Yeah, maybe this crazy world would straighten up and slow on down
If every town had a Mamaw’s house
[Bridge: Morgan Wallen]
Yeah, and if they did, when I punched the clock
Tonight, I know right where I’d be
I’d walk in and get a big old hug
And a bigger glass of tea
[Chorus: Thomas Rhett, Morgan Wallen]
If every nightstand had a Bible, every front porch had a swing
If every backyard had a garden, every front door had a screen
Yeah, maybe this crazy world would straighten up and slow on down
If every town had a Mamaw’s house
Yeah, maybe this crazy world would straighten up and slow on down
If every town had a mamaw’s house