Introduction
A Taste of Country Wit: The Statler Brothers and “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too”
“You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” isn’t your typical heartbreak ballad. Released in 1967 by the Statler Brothers, this song injects a dose of humor into the classic country music theme of romantic indecisiveness.
The song’s title cleverly twists the well-known proverb “you can’t have your cake and eat it too.” Songwriters Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman replace “cake” with the names Kate and Edith, setting the stage for a lighthearted exploration of a man caught between two loves.
The Statler Brothers, known for their smooth harmonies and playful stage presence, were the perfect vessel for this playful tune. Though details about the song’s inspiration are scarce, it likely rode the wave of popularity of similar country songs that used wordplay and humor to explore relatable themes.
While the exact chart performance of “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” is unavailable, it found a place on the Statler Brothers’ compilation album “The Statler Brothers Sing the Big Hits” in 1967. The song’s legacy lives on as a testament to the Statler Brothers’ ability to blend catchy melodies with clever lyrics, offering a lighthearted take on the complexities of love.
So, before you hit play, prepare yourself for a song that’s equal parts country charm and witty wordplay. “You Can’t Have Your Kate and Edith Too” is a reminder that sometimes, even heartbreak can be delivered with a smile.