Introduction:
Released in 1970, “For The Good Times” became a defining song in country music history. The melancholic ballad, delivered by the smooth vocals of Ray Price, captured the bittersweet emotions of a relationship ending.
Price, a Texas native, was already a well-established country music star by the time “For The Good Times” hit the airwaves. Nicknamed “Cherokee Ray” for his dark hair and smooth baritone, Price had risen to fame in the 1950s with a signature honky-tonk sound. Throughout the 1960s, he experimented with incorporating elements of pop music into his country style. “For The Good Times” marked a return to his country roots, showcasing a more traditional country sound.
However, the credit for writing “For The Good Times” goes not to Ray Price, but to Kris Kristofferson, a rising songwriter at the time. Kristofferson, who would later become a country music legend himself, penned the song with songwriter Bobby Braddock. The pair were known for their introspective lyrics that explored themes of love, loss, and hard living. “For The Good Times” perfectly embodied this style, resonating with audiences who connected with the song’s portrayal of a love that has faded but left cherished memories.
Produced by Don Law, a longtime collaborator of Price’s, “For The Good Times” was released on Price’s album of the same name. The album itself was a commercial success, reaching number six on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. But it was the title track that became the album’s standout hit.
“For The Good Times” climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, reaching number one in 1970. The song’s emotional resonance transcended genre, finding appreciation beyond the country music audience. It reached number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing its broader appeal.
The song’s critical acclaim solidified its place in country music history. It won Song of the Year at the 1970 Country Music Association Awards and earned Kristofferson a Grammy Award nomination for Best Country Song.
But perhaps the most telling testament to “For The Good Times'” impact is its enduring popularity. The song has been covered by countless artists across various genres, including Elvis Presley, Tammy Wynette, and Kenny Rogers. Each rendition offers a unique take on the song’s themes, a demonstration of the song’s versatility and lasting influence.
Today, “For The Good Times” remains a staple of country radio and a go-to choice for karaoke singers everywhere. Its simple yet poignant lyrics continue to touch listeners, making it a timeless classic in the vast catalog of country music.