Album Review: World Of My Own by Mickey Gilley
Alright, let’s talk about Mickey Gilley’s World Of My Own, a country gem that dropped way back in 1962. This album’s got that old-school charm, with its roots deep in folk, world, and country vibes. It’s like stepping into a time machine where life was simpler, but heartbreak still stung just as bad. Released in Canada and the US under Maverick Records Inc. and Princess Records, it’s got Huey P. Meaux in the producer’s chair, which kinda explains the smooth yet raw feel of the whole thing.
Now, this record has some solid tracks, but I wanna zoom in on two that really stuck with me: “She’s Still Got A Hold On You” and “World Of My Own.”
First off, “She’s Still Got A Hold On You” hits different. Like, you know when you’re tryin’ to move on from someone, but no matter what, they’re still all up in your head? That’s this song. Gilley’s voice feels like he’s sittin’ right there with you, nursing a beer, saying, “Yeah, buddy, I get it.” The melody’s simple but effective, kinda like a warm hug that also makes you wanna cry.
Then there’s the title track, “World Of My Own.” Man, this one’s a vibe. It’s slower, more introspective, and it’s like Gilley’s inviting you into his little universe. The lyrics make you think about how we all build these emotional worlds inside ourselves, ya know? It’s not flashy or over-the-top, but that’s the beauty of it—it’s real. Feels like late-night thoughts put to music.
The rest of the album keeps the same tone—tracks like “I Still Care” and “Without You” keep things heartfelt and honest. Even the slightly upbeat ones, like “Night After Night (Love After Love),” have this bittersweet edge that just sticks with you.
What’s wild is how this album came out in ’62, but it still feels relevant today. Heartbreak doesn’t really go out of style, does it? Listening to it now, I can’t help but think about how people back then were dealing with the same stuff we are now—love, loss, doubt, all that jazz.
So yeah, World Of My Own isn’t perfect, but maybe that’s why I dig it. It’s got flaws, sure, but so do we all. And honestly? That’s kinda beautiful.
Oh, and here’s a random thought to leave you with: If this album was a person, it’d probably be that quiet guy at the bar who looks like he’s got a thousand stories but only tells you one. And man, that one story’s enough to stay with you for days.
