By the Book

Michael Peterson

About By the Book

"By the Book" is a song co-written and recorded by American country music artist Michael Peterson. It was released in September 1998 as the fifth and final single from the album Michael Peterson. The song reached #19 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. Peterson wrote the song with Robert Ellis Orrall.


Year:
1997
3:02
136 
#3

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As I slowly turn the pages and see all these smiling faces
It's hard to believe it was today, ten years ago
Here is the invitation to our wedding celebration
Just look at the promise these pictures show
Now I know

If I had loved her by the book
She would be right here by my side
But fool that I am, I overlooked
My promise to love her forever
For worse or for better
We'd still be together
If Id've loved her by the book

If I opened this book more often, then I wouldn't have forgotten
How much she cared and how much I meant my solemn vows
To honor to have and hold her, but as I read them over
I know it's too late to say I'm sorry now

If I had loved her by the book
She would be right here by my side
But fool that I am, I overlooked
My promise to love her forever
For worse or for better
We'd still be together
If Id've loved her by the book

If I had loved her by the book

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Michael Peterson

Michael James Peterson (born August 7, 1959) is an American country music artist. He made his debut on the country music scene in 1997 with his self-titled debut album, which produced five Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks (now Hot Country Songs) charts, including the Number One hit "From Here to Eternity". Peterson's second album, 1999's Being Human, produced two more chart singles, and a third album, 2004's Modern Man, was issued only in Europe. more »

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Written by: ROBERT ORRALL, ROBERT ELLIS ORRALL, MICHAEL JAMES PETERSON

Lyrics © Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Genre
"By the Book" is a song from the traditionally American genre of country music.
Artist
It was written and performed by Michael Peterson, an American country music artist.
Album
It is the third single from his self-titled debut album, "Michael Peterson."
Chart Performance
"By the Book" reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
Release Year
This song was released in 1997.
Song Duration
The runtime of "By the Book" is approximately three minutes and 42 seconds.
Inspiration
The song talks about a man's life from childhood to old age, reflecting on the stages he has passed through, making it a relatable track to many listeners.
Song Writing
Even though Peterson is a prolific songwriter and often writes his material, "By the Book" was actually written by Robert Ellis Orrall and Josh Leo.
Record Label
The song was published under the Warner Bros. record label.
Collaboration
The album "Michael Peterson," including the song "By the Book," was produced by renowned country music producer, Josh Leo.
Context
In the broader context of Peterson's career, "By the Book" helped establish him as a major new talent in the country music scene of the late '90s.
Song Style
This song is a perfect example of Peterson's narrative storytelling style, bringing a directness and authenticity to his lyricism.
Credits
Interestingly, Peterson plays the guitar himself on his tracks, including "By the Book", showcasing his versatility as a musician.
Recognition
The success of the song “By the Book” and others on his debut album led Michael Peterson to be recognized as the top new male vocalist by Billboard in 1997.
Album Success
Backed by the success of "By the Book" and other popular singles, the album "Michael Peterson" was certified Platinum by the RIAA.

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