Introduction:
A Double Date Disaster: The Story Behind “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too”
The Statler Brothers’ catchy tune, “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too,” isn’t just a toe-tapping country classic, it’s a hilarious cautionary tale (sung with a wink and a smile, of course) about the pitfalls of indecisiveness in love. But where did this story of a double date gone wrong come from?
The songwriting duo behind the song, Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, were known for their knack for crafting relatable stories through country music. “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” is no exception. While the exact inspiration for the song remains unknown, it cleverly plays on the classic proverb “you can’t have your cake and eat it too.”
The song itself, released in 1970, tells the story of a double date gone south. The narrator sets the scene, going out with his girlfriend, Kate, and their friends on a double date with Edith. However, things take a turn when the narrator catches his date’s partner flirting with Edith. Jealousy and confusion ensue, with the narrator himself getting a little too friendly with Edith.
The song’s humor comes from its relatable portrayal of a situation many might have experienced – the temptation that arises when someone seems interested despite being on a date with someone else. But the lyrics also warn of the consequences of such indecisiveness, with the narrator left single at the end, presumably because of his inability to choose.
“You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” became a signature song for the Statler Brothers, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1970. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its lighthearted take on a relatable situation, reminding listeners with a chuckle that sometimes, you just gotta pick a lane.
So, before you find yourself caught between two sweethearts, put on “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” – a reminder that a little honesty and commitment can go a long way in the world of love.