Introduction:
Released in 1975, Green, Green Grass of Home is a melancholic country ballad that stands out in the vast catalog of the iconic singer Elvis Presley. While Presley is primarily known for his rock and roll revolution in the 1950s, Green, Green Grass of Home showcases his enduring connection to the country music genre that heavily influenced his early career.
The song was produced by RCA Victor, Presley’s longtime record label, but the songwriting credits lie with Curly Putman and Billy Edd Wheeler. Putman was a significant figure in country music, having penned hits for artists like Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. Wheeler, on the other hand, was an established songwriter known for his collaborations with Dolly Parton. This creative pairing resulted in a song that resonated deeply with Presley, allowing him to deliver a heartfelt performance imbued with nostalgia and longing.
Green, Green Grass of Home became a success on the country music charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also achieved a respectable position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number fifteen. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable lyrics that paint a vivid picture of yearning for home. The ballad tells the story of a man stationed far away, presumably a soldier, who dreams of returning to the familiar comfort of his hometown. The imagery of the “green, green grass of home” serves as a powerful symbol of solace and stability, a stark contrast to the narrator’s current environment.
Green, Green Grass of Home holds a special place in Presley’s career. Released later in his life, the song showcased his artistic growth and his ability to deliver a poignant country ballad. The song’s critical and commercial success further solidified Presley’s status as a versatile musician who could excel in multiple genres. Moreover, Green, Green Grass of Home transcended generations, becoming a beloved classic and a staple in country music playlists. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Tom Jones, Kenny Rogers, and Willie Nelson, a testament to the song’s timeless themes and Presley’s enduring impact on popular music.
Video:
Lyrics:
The old home town looks the sameAs I step down from the trainAnd there to meet me is my mama and papa
Down the road, I look and there runs MaryHair of gold and lips like cherriesIt’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, they’ll all come to meet meArms a’reaching, smiling sweetlyIt’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
The old house is still standingThough the paint is cracked and dryAnd there’s that old oak tree that I used to play on
Down the lane I walk and with my sweet MaryHair of gold and lips like cherriesIt’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Then I awake and look around meAt four gray walls that surround meAnd I realize that I was only dreaming
For there’s a guard and there’s a sad old padreArm and arm, we’ll walk at daybreakAgain I’ll touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, they’ll all come to see meIn the shade of that old oak treeAs they lay me ‘neath the green, green grass of home