“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
I first encountered “Good Hearted Woman” during a road trip with friends, where it played on repeat, becoming the anthem of our journey. The song’s catchy rhythm and poignant story made our travels even more memorable.
About The Composition
- Title: Good Hearted Woman
- Composer: Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson
- Premiere Date: 1971
- Album/Opus/Collection: Good Hearted Woman
- Genre: Country
Background
The creation of “Good Hearted Woman” stemmed from a casual conversation between Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson about Tina Turner’s relationship with Ike Turner. Inspired by the idea of a woman standing by her man despite his flaws, the song was born. It debuted in 1971 and quickly became a hit, epitomizing the outlaw country movement that both Jennings and Nelson championed. The song’s initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying its place in country music history.
Musical Style
“Good Hearted Woman” is a classic country song with a simple yet effective structure. The music features a blend of honky-tonk piano, twangy guitars, and a steady rhythm section, providing a perfect backdrop for the story told through the lyrics. The vocal harmonies between Jennings and Nelson are particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the song.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics portray a narrative of a devoted woman who loves her partner unconditionally, despite his shortcomings. This theme of unwavering loyalty is a hallmark of country music, resonating deeply with listeners who appreciate stories of enduring love and commitment.
Performance History
“Good Hearted Woman” has been performed countless times by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, both individually and as a duo. Their joint performances, especially during the 1976 “Wanted! The Outlaws” tour, are legendary and helped cement the song’s status as a country classic. The song’s inclusion in the platinum-certified album “Wanted! The Outlaws” further enhanced its popularity.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its success in the country music scene, “Good Hearted Woman” has made its mark in popular culture. It has been featured in various films and television series, often used to underscore themes of loyalty and resilience. The song’s influence is evident in the numerous covers and adaptations by artists across different genres.
Legacy
The legacy of “Good Hearted Woman” is evident in its continued popularity and relevance. The song’s heartfelt message and classic country sound ensure that it remains a favorite among both old and new generations of listeners. Its place in the pantheon of country music is well-deserved, reflecting the timeless appeal of its themes and melodies.
Conclusion
“Good Hearted Woman” by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson is more than just a song; it’s a narrative of enduring love and resilience that continues to touch hearts. I highly recommend listening to the original recordings by Jennings and Nelson to fully appreciate the depth and beauty of this country music masterpiece.
Video
Lyrics
A long time forgotten the dreams that just fell by the way
The good life he promised, ain’t what she’s living today
(Willie)
But she never complains of the bad times
Or the bad things he’s done ,Lord (yeah)
She just talks about the good times they’ve had
And all the good times to come
She’s a good hearted woman in love with a good timin’ man
She loves him in spite of his ways she don’t understand
Through teardrops and laughter
They’ll pass through this world hand in hand
A good hearted woman lovin’ a good timin’ man
He likes the bright lights and night life and good timin’ friends
And when the party’s all over, she’ll welcome him back home again
Lord knows she don’t understand him but she does the best that she can
This good hearted woman lovin’ a good timin’ man (yeah)
She’s a good hearted woman in love with a good timin’ man (woo, yeah)
She loves me in spite of my wicked ways that she don’t understand
Through teardrops and laughter
They’ll pass through this world hand in hand, Lord
A good hearted woman lovin’ a good timin’ man
She’s a good hearted woman in love with a good timin’ man
She loves me in spite of my wicked mouthed ways
But then she don’t understand