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Third Rate Romance

"Third Rate Romance" is a song written by Russell Smith, first recorded in Montreal in 1974 by Jesse Winchester and his band the Rhythm Aces, assisted by Smith. It became a hit the following year by the newly re-formed Amazing Rhythm Aces on its 1975 album Stacked Deck. It was the band's debut single, reaching No.11 on the U.S. country singles chart and No.14 on the Billboard Hot 100,[2] as well as No.1 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks and Top Singles charts.

"Third Rate Romance"

"Mystery Train"

June 23, 1975

3:17

Barry Burton

Content[edit]

The third-person lyrics tell the story of a man and woman who meet at a restaurant and depart together for what presumably will prove to be a one-night stand at a motel (the "Family Inn"). At the door of the room, she nervously says, "I've never really done this kind of thing before—have you?" He admits that he has, "but only a time or two."

"Third Rate Romance"

"Paradise from Nine to One"

August 30, 1994

3:21

- on his 1974 album Learn to Love It.

Jesse Winchester

recorded a more funky take on their 1975 album Low Rent Rendezvous.

Ace Spectrum

- as a demo in 1975 on the album known as the "Flip City Demos"

Elvis Costello

recorded it in 1976.

Tom Jones

- on her 1982 album Somewhere in the Stars.

Rosanne Cash

- on their 1978 album Unsuitable.

Fabulous Poodles

Another version was performed on The Review Anniversary Special (1975).

Earl Scruggs