One of the things that sets the song apart from most other music is the composition of the song. With “Sunny’s” success, Colvin has tried to use that format even more. It was the first time she had played with that format. “Sunny Came Home” is one of several ‘story songs’ on A Few Small Repairs. Including trying to fix the relationship, “she opened a book and a box of tools.” The rest of the song would follow the end, including the fire that takes place in the middle of the song. In fact, many of them believe the song as a whole is a metaphor for the emotions of a breakup. Critics say those feelings shine through in the song. In her memoir, Diamond In The Rough, Colvin admitted to being depressed and anxious. As she wrote the song, Colvin began to tell a story about a woman who was left for another woman. Part of the inspiration for “Sunny Came Home” was the CD’s artwork, which was painted by Colvin’s friend Julie Speed. So she turned the project into a concept album. Divorce Thy Name Is SunnyĪs Colvin was writing songs for A Few Small Repairs, her marriage to Simon Tassano was coming to an end. Colvin had reached the kind of success most artists only dream of.Īnd she has a dark period in her life to thank. It won Grammy awards for Record and Song of the Year.

It peaked at #7 on the Billboard hot 100 charts.Īlong with being a commercial success, the song was also a critical smash. Executives watched as the song took off in popularity and reversed their decision. The record company didn’t think the song had commercial appeal. “Sunny Came Home” was not supposed to be released as a single though, it was just another track from A Few Small Repairs. June 24, 1997, saw the release of Shawn Colvin’s most popular single to date.

Lyrics sunny came home