Chris Chitsey’s new single, “Chasing Taillights,” is a poignant reminder of the heartbreak that comes with the end of a relationship. A veteran of the Texas honky-tonk scene and one of the few artists who’s managed to chart #1 singles across four decades, Chitsey has carved a lasting legacy with his evocative voice and authentic country sound. With “Chasing Taillights,” he offers a deep, emotional dive into the slow and bittersweet process of realizing that love, no matter how hard you try, can sometimes fade away.
Written by Rob Martin and Frank Maroney, the song takes on the complexity of a love that’s no longer enough. From the opening lines, it’s clear this isn’t a song of bitterness or anger. Instead, the lyrics speak to the painful understanding that sometimes, despite the best efforts, a relationship simply runs its course. “It ain’t your fault girl / And it ain’t mine,” Chitsey sings with a quiet wisdom, acknowledging that no one is to blame—sometimes, love just isn’t enough anymore. It’s a gentle, almost resigned acceptance of the end of a romantic chapter.
The chorus, with its haunting refrain of “We’re just chasing taillights,” captures the feeling of trying to hold on to something that’s slipping through your fingers. It’s not a dramatic, fiery breakup, but rather a realization that the relationship is fading, and all they’re left with are the memories, like taillights disappearing into the night. The metaphor is powerful, and it perfectly encapsulates the emotional tug-of-war of staying in something that no longer brings joy. “Yeah all that’s left to do is say goodbye / We’re just chasing taillights,” Chitsey sings with quiet finality.
This song stands out because it’s not just about the sorrow of a breakup, but also about the hard decisions that come with it. “Let’s be honest now / This ain’t what it was,” Chitsey acknowledges. And that’s the truth—sometimes, you have to make the tough choice to walk away from something you once cherished, even if there’s still love there. It’s a bittersweet, adult realization that sometimes letting go is the right thing to do, even if it’s painful.
Chitsey’s voice is the perfect vehicle for this kind of emotional storytelling. Deep, confident, and always with a touch of vulnerability, his voice gives life to the complex emotions these lyrics express. There’s a strength in his delivery, but it’s not brash—it’s heartfelt and thoughtful, a voice that feels like an old friend you can rely on to speak the truth. He’s always had one of the most commanding voices in country music, and with “Chasing Taillights,” it’s clear why he continues to resonate with listeners across generations.
Musically, the track is as smooth and reflective as Chitsey’s vocal delivery. Produced by Chitsey himself along with Stanley and Jo Anne Izard, the arrangement feels both timeless and fresh. The standout instrumentation comes from the legendary fiddle player Jenee Fleenor, whose emotive playing adds a layer of melancholy to the song. Fleenor’s contribution, paired with the impeccable production, elevates the song’s emotional impact.
The music video, shot in Los Trece, Texas—Chitsey’s own Old Western Town and live music venue—sets the perfect backdrop for the song’s themes. With elements like a 1958 Oldsmobile 88, a country-western tavern, and an outdoor bonfire at night, the video captures the nostalgic, heart-wrenching mood of the song. It’s a visual representation of a love that’s slipping away, and it perfectly complements the song’s lyrical journey.
Overall, “Chasing Taillights” is a beautifully crafted reflection on the end of a relationship—a song that’s as much about making difficult, grown-up decisions as it is about the sorrow of letting go. Chris Chitsey’s deep, soulful voice delivers these emotions with authenticity and grace, and the song stands as a testament to why he remains one of the most respected voices in country music today. With “Chasing Taillights,” he proves once again that his talent for telling stories about love, loss, and life’s complexities is second to none.
Mindy McCall
