Introduction:
Bad Water, released in 1975, is a country song that launched singer-songwriter Gene Watson’s career to new heights. While the exact songwriter is undetermined, the song stands as a signature tune for Watson and a country music staple.
Produced by Billy Sherrill for MCA Records, Bad Water explores themes of hardship and perseverance. The song itself isn’t credited to a single songwriter, though rumours credit Eddy Raven with composing it. Regardless of its origin, Bad Water struck a chord with audiences, becoming a number one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1975.
Bad Water is a country ballad, a genre known for its storytelling elements and focus on everyday struggles. The song’s lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil of a character facing immense challenges. The use of the metaphor “bad water” represents a period of difficulty and uncertainty in the narrator’s life. The song explores feelings of isolation and the weight of burdens, themes that resonate with many country music listeners.
Bad Water’s success solidified Gene Watson’s place in country music. Watson, known for his smooth baritone voice and engaging stage presence, had been a recording artist for several years prior to the song’s release. However, Bad Water propelled him to national recognition. The song’s critical and commercial success established Watson as a country music artist to watch.
Bad Water’s enduring legacy is a testament to its relatable themes and Watson’s exceptional performance. The song has been covered by numerous country music artists, including George Strait, Alan Jackson, and Brad Paisley. These covers speak to the song’s universal appeal and its ability to connect with listeners across generations.
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Lyrics:
I got troubles, you got troublesAll God’s children got troublesLivin’ in bad water (Bad water)(Tryin’ to roll all over me)(Bad water, bad water, oh)(Tell me why won’t you set me free)
You know I’m tryin’ to make itBut it’s so hard to take itI don’t mind tellin’ youWell, I don’t mind tellin’ youTaxes are overatedMy money’s disintegratedAnd, right now, I’m just goin’ throughNothin’ but bad water, bad waterTryin’ to roll all over me, oh(Bad water, bad water, oh)Tell me why won’t you set me free
I need some consolationTo ease my situtationYou know, the confusion just won’t stopI find myself aloneWith the shoes that I have onI’m all wet, from bottom to topI’m walkin’ through bad water (Bad water)Tryin’ to roll all over meHelp me(Bad water, bad water, oh)Tell me why won’t you set me free
We started this decisionTo find a quick preventionWhy don’t y’all lend a helping handInstead of shoutin’ and screamin’?Let’s plan instead of dreamin’So the world will understandOh, stop with this bad water (Bad water)Tryin’ to roll all over meI’ll fix it(Bad water, bad water, oh)Tell me why won’t you set me freeOh, let’s stop and fish(Bad water, bad water)(Tryin’ to roll all over me)