Are the Good Times Really Over
Merle Haggard
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I wish a buck was still silver It was back when the country was strong Back before Elvis, before Vietnam war came along Before the Beatles and yesterday When a man could still work and still would Is the best of the free life behind us now And are the good times really over for good? And are we rolling downhill like a snowball headed for hell With no kinda chance for the flag or the liberty bell? Wish a Ford and a Chevy Would still last ten years like they should Is the best of the free life behind us now And are the good times really over for good? I wish coke was still cola And a joint was a bad place to be It was back before Nixon lied to us all on T.V Before microwave ovens when a girl could still cook, and still would Is the best of the free life behind us now Are the good times really over for good? Are we rolling downhill like a snowball headed for hell With no kinda chance for the flag or the liberty bell Wish a Ford and a Chevy Would still last ten years like they should Is the best of the free life behind us now And are the good times really over for good? Stop rolling downhill like a snowball headed for hell Stand up for the flag and let's all ring the liberty bell Let's make a Ford and a Chevy That would still last ten years like they should 'Cause the best of the free life is still yet to come And the good times ain't over for good
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Written by: MERLE HAGGARD
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
11 facts about this song
Composer Details"Are the Good Times Really Over" was written by Merle Haggard himself, proving his prowess as a talented songwriter, not just a performer.
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Release YearThe song was released in May 1982 as part of the album "Big City". This was near the peak of Haggard's musical career.
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Performance ChartOn the U.S Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, the song peaked at the #2 spot.
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Social MessageThe song’s lyrics regret the passing of 'the good old days', and ponder if "the good times" have ended. It shows Haggard's concern about the changing social and political landscape in America.
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Title InspirationThe song's full title "Are the Good Times Really Over (I Wish a Buck Was Still Silver)" reflects Haggard's longing for the past, a time when money had more value, and society was perceived as more stable and secure.
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Iconic LineThe line "I wish a Ford and Chevrolet would still last 10 years, like they should" has been heavily noted by fans and critics as capturing the essence of Haggard's views on the loss of quality and authenticity over progress and modernization.
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Enduring PopularityMany years after its release, the song continues to be popular especially among fans of traditional country music, a testament to Haggard's enduring appeal.
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Music VideoIn the official music video of "Are the Good Times Really Over", Merle Haggard is seen in a nostalgic setting, singing and playing his guitar.
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Cover VersionsThe song has been covered by several artists over the years, a testament to its lasting impact on the genre. Notable cover versions include those by Randy Travis and Cody Jinks.
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High Radio AirplayAt its peak, the song was heavily played on country radio stations across the United States, highlighting its popularity and commercial success.
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Long lasting ImpactThe song has remained relevant as it has been used in various forms of media over the years. Most notably, it was included in the soundtrack of the 2013 film "Nebraska."
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Citation
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"Are the Good Times Really Over Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 29 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/17363959/Merle+Haggard/Are+the+Good+Times+Really+Over>.
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