About the song
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with country music’s golden era, has gifted us with countless timeless classics. Among his most cherished compositions is the poignant ballad, “For the Good Times”. This song, with its simple yet profound lyrics and Kristofferson’s signature soulful vocals, has resonated with listeners for generations.
Released in 1968, “For the Good Times” captures the bittersweet ache of lost love. It’s a song that speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever experienced the pain of saying goodbye. Kristofferson’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music is evident in every verse. The song paints a vivid picture of a love that has faded, leaving behind cherished memories.
The melody of “For the Good Times” is both haunting and beautiful. It’s a gentle, melancholic tune that perfectly complements the lyrics. The arrangement, with its understated instrumentation, creates a sense of intimacy, as if Kristofferson is sharing a deeply personal story with the listener.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its universality. While it’s a love song at its core, it can also be interpreted as a reflection on life, loss, and the passage of time. The phrase “for the good times” is a bittersweet reminder that even the most painful experiences can teach us valuable lessons and help us to appreciate the beauty of life.
Over the years, “For the Good Times” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the song. However, it’s Kristofferson’s original version that remains the definitive recording. His heartfelt delivery and the song’s timeless quality have ensured its place in the country music canon.
In conclusion, “For the Good Times” is a masterpiece of songwriting that continues to touch the hearts of listeners of all ages. Kristofferson’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion is on full display in this song, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates great country music. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kristofferson or new to his music, “For the Good Times” is a song that will stay with you long after the final note fades.
Video
Lyrics
Don’t look so sad
I know it’s over
But life goes on
And this world keeps on turning, yeah
Let’s just be glad
We have this time to spend together
There is no need
To watch the bridges that we’re burning
Lay your head (lay your head)
On my pillow, sweet baby
Hold your warm (and tender body) and tender body
Close to mine
Hear the whisper of the raindrops
Blowin’ softly against my window
Oh, late at night
(Make believe) make believe you love me
(Make believe) one more time
For the good times
For the good times
I’ll get along
And I’m sure you’ll find another
But baby, please remember
I’ll be here (I’ll be here)
I’m gonna stay right here
And if you should ever find you need me, yeah
Don’t say a word about tomorrow
Ahh, forever and ever and ever and ever
There’ll be time enough for severance, when you leave me
Ehehehehe
For the good times, oh yeah
For the good times
Lay your head (lay your head)
On my pillow
Oh, this is one time girl (one time)
Hold your warm (and tender body) and tender body
Close to mine ehehehehe
Oh baby, won’t you
Hear that whisper, hear that whisper
Of the raindrops, of the raindrops
Blowin’ softly, softly
Against my window
All ya gotta do is (make believe), all ya gotta do is
Make believe you love me (make believe)
One more time, for me baby
For the good times (hey baby)
For the good times
And here’s what you ought to do
Lay your head on my pillow
I just wanna
(Hold your warm) hold your warm, hold your warm
(And tender body) and tender body
(Close to mine) close to mine