Released August 9, 1999 Length 4:18 | Genre Country Label MCA Nashville | |
B-side "Right Where I Need to Be" Writer(s) Rivers Rutherford
Houston Robert | ||
"Smoke Rings in the Dark" is a song written by Rivers Rutherford and Houston Robert, and recorded by American country music artist Gary Allan. It was released in August 1999 as the first single and title track from the album of the same name. The song peaked at number 12 on the U.S. country chart in February 2000 and at number 5 in Canada. It also peaked at number 76 on the Hot 100. It is Allan's highest peaking single in Canada.
Contents
Content
The song deals with the pain of unrequited love. The narrator states that all he will leave his significant other like "smoke rings in the dark."
Critical reception
Chuck Taylor, of Billboard magazine reviewed the song favorably saying that "the production, songwriting, and performance combine to create a record that leaves a stunning impression." Taylor calls Allan's performance "wonderfully nuanced" and saying that the production has a "decidedly retro feel."
Music video
The music video was directed by Chris Rogers.
Chart positions
"Smoke Rings in the Dark" debuted at number 71 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks for the chart week of August 14, 1999.