“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
As a child, I remember hearing my father play “Good Hearted Woman” on his old vinyl records. The lively tune and heartfelt lyrics seemed to fill our home with warmth and nostalgia, capturing a sense of timeless country charm.
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
“Good Hearted Woman” was co-written by two country music legends, Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. The inspiration for the song came from a newspaper advertisement Jennings saw about Tina Turner being a “good-hearted woman loving a two-timing man.” The song was a significant hit in the early 1970s and became a staple in both Jennings’ and Nelson’s repertoires. Initially, the song’s warm reception was amplified by the growing popularity of the outlaw country movement, which both artists were central to.
Musical Style
The song is characterized by its straightforward structure, typical of country music, with a blend of honky-tonk piano, steady rhythm guitar, and Jennings’ deep, resonant voice. The instrumentation includes acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, and piano, creating a rich, full sound that supports the song’s storytelling nature. Jennings’ and Nelson’s harmonies are a standout feature, adding depth and emotion to the piece.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Good Hearted Woman” tell the story of a patient and understanding woman who remains devoted to her man despite his flaws and mistakes. This narrative reflects a common theme in country music, celebrating loyalty and resilience in the face of personal struggles.
Performance History
Over the years, “Good Hearted Woman” has been performed by numerous artists, but the most notable performances remain those by Jennings and Nelson. The song’s popularity was further solidified when it was included in the duo’s critically acclaimed 1976 album, “Wanted! The Outlaws,” which was the first country album to be certified platinum.
Cultural Impact
“Good Hearted Woman” has left a lasting impact on country music and has been featured in various media, including films and television shows. Its influence extends beyond music, symbolizing the themes of loyalty and perseverance that resonate with a wide audience.
Legacy
The enduring appeal of “Good Hearted Woman” lies in its heartfelt lyrics and relatable themes. The song continues to be a favorite among country music fans and is often covered by artists new and old, highlighting its timeless relevance.
Conclusion
“Good Hearted Woman” remains a testament to the songwriting prowess of Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. Its enduring charm and emotional depth make it a must-listen for anyone interested in country music. I encourage you to explore this classic, perhaps starting with the iconic performances by Jennings and Nelson.
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