About the song
“For the Good Times” stands as a timeless classic in the annals of country and popular music, crafted by the esteemed songwriter Kris Kristofferson. Originally written in 1968 during a reflective road trip from Nashville to the Gulf of Mexico, the song captures the poignant essence of love lost and the bittersweet memories that linger.
The song made its first appearance through singer Bill Nash’s recording in 1968 on Smash Records, setting the stage for Kristofferson’s own rendition on his debut album released in April 1970. However, it was Ray Price’s rendition of “For the Good Times” that catapulted the song to widespread acclaim, securing a #1 hit on the country charts in June 1970. This achievement not only established Kristofferson as a premier songwriter in both country and popular music but also marked a significant comeback for Ray Price, who hadn’t topped the charts in over a decade.
Following its initial success, “For the Good Times” continued to resonate across genres and generations. Soul icon Al Green notably incorporated the song into his live performances during the 1970s, and it appeared on his 1972 album *I’m Still in Love with You*, showcasing its enduring appeal beyond its country roots.
The song’s evocative lyrics, penned by Kristofferson from personal experience, convey a profound sense of melancholy, acceptance, and longing. Popular music scholar Steve Sullivan aptly describes how the song captures these emotions with poignant clarity.
Recognized for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance, “For the Good Times” received accolades at the 1971 Academy of Country Music Awards, where it won “Song of the Year” for Kristofferson and “Single of the Year” for Ray Price. Its enduring popularity was further underscored by Perry Como’s rendition, which achieved significant chart success in the UK and Ireland in 1973.
Beyond its chart achievements and critical acclaim, “For the Good Times” has also transcended into popular culture, being featured in television commercials and continuing to be cherished by audiences worldwide. Kris Kristofferson’s ability to craft a song that touches the soul, coupled with its interpretation by iconic artists, ensures that “For the Good Times” remains a poignant reflection on love and loss, enduring as a timeless masterpiece in music history.
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Lyrics
Don’t look so sad
I know it’s over
But life goes on
And this old world will keep on turning
Let’s just be glad
We had some time to spend together
There’s no need to watch the bridges
That were burningLay your head upon my pillow
Hold your warm and tender body
Close to mine
Hear the whisper of the rain drops
Blowing soft against the window
And make believe you love me
One more time
For the good timesI’ll get along
You’ll find another
And I’ll be here
If you should find you ever need me
Don’t say a word about tomorrow
Or forever
There’ll be time enough for sadness
When you leave meLay your head upon my pillow
Hold your warm and tender body
Close to mine
Hear the whisper of the rain drops
Blowing soft against the window
And make believe you love me
One more time