About the Song
“I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes” by Ronnie Dunn, from his 2016 album Peace, Love, and Country Music, is a reflective and deeply nostalgic track that blends humor with heartfelt emotion. The song is a tribute to the past, a look back at simpler times, and a reflection on life’s changes. It’s a classic example of Dunn’s ability to balance personal storytelling with universal themes, capturing the bittersweet nature of growing up and moving forward.
Lyrically, “I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes” explores the narrator’s yearning for the carefree days of youth, where smoking cigarettes was part of the rituals of socializing and escaping life’s worries. The song is both humorous and melancholic, with the narrator looking back at his younger years with a sense of nostalgia and longing for a time when life felt more spontaneous. The line “I wish I still smoked cigarettes / So I could sit back, think of you, and have a little time to forget” speaks to the comforting escape that those habits used to offer. At its core, the song isn’t just about smoking; it’s about missing the simpler, more carefree moments of life.
Ronnie Dunn’s vocal delivery in this track is full of warmth and genuine emotion, with his signature deep baritone bringing a sense of honesty and vulnerability to the lyrics. Dunn’s ability to convey both humor and heartbreak is on full display here, making the song relatable to anyone who has ever looked back on their life and wished they could relive certain moments. His gravelly voice adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling, making it feel as if he’s speaking directly to the listener.
Musically, the arrangement of “I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes” is a blend of classic country and modern influences, with a laid-back rhythm, acoustic guitar, and light percussion providing a relaxed backdrop for Dunn’s voice. The gentle guitar work and subtle instrumentation give the song a timeless, easygoing feel, perfectly matching the nostalgic tone of the lyrics. The melodic simplicity of the track allows the emotional depth of the song to shine through without overwhelming the listener with complex arrangements.
In the context of Ronnie Dunn’s solo career, “I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes” stands out as a track that showcases his gift for blending storytelling with real, personal reflection. While Dunn is best known for his work with Brooks & Dunn, his solo work, especially on Peace, Love, and Country Music, reveals a deeper, more introspective side of the artist. The song highlights his ability to write relatable lyrics that resonate with listeners while still maintaining the authenticity and rootsy feel that are staples of his country music style.
In short, “I Wish I Still Smoked Cigarettes” is a witty yet poignant ballad that blends nostalgia, humor, and regret. With Ronnie Dunn’s heartfelt vocals, a simple but effective arrangement, and a deeply relatable message, the song resonates with anyone who has ever looked back at their past and wished for a simpler time. It is a testament to Dunn’s ability to craft songs that are both emotionally rich and universally appealing.