Introduction
“The Best Thing Goin’” is a track from Ricky Van Shelton’s 1998 album Making Plans. The album, Shelton’s eighth studio release, came at a time when he was transitioning from his previous success under major labels to an independent release through Vanguard Records. Uniquely, Making Plans was distributed exclusively through Wal-Mart, limiting its broader commercial reach and preventing the album from charting, but it remains a notable entry in Shelton’s catalog.
“The Best Thing Goin’,” written by Mike Geiger, Michael Huffman, and Woody Mullis, is a heartfelt country ballad that showcases Shelton’s deep, soulful voice, which had become his signature over the years. The song reflects themes of love, appreciation, and recognizing the value of someone special in one’s life. Its lyrics resonate with the traditional country storytelling style, featuring a blend of tenderness and emotional vulnerability that Shelton excelled at throughout his career.
During the late 1990s, Shelton was at a crossroads in his career. After achieving massive success in the late 80s and early 90s with chart-topping hits like “I’ll Leave This World Loving You” and “From a Jack to a King,” Shelton shifted his focus toward projects that allowed him more creative control. Making Plans marked a departure from his usual mainstream releases, but it remained true to the classic country sound that fans had come to love.
Though Making Plans didn’t generate major hits due to its limited distribution, songs like “The Best Thing Goin’” are a testament to Shelton’s continued passion for music and storytelling. His ability to convey deep emotions through his music made him a beloved figure in country music, and this track is a reflection of that enduring legacy.
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