“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Waylon Jennings’ “Good Hearted Woman” isn’t just a song; it’s a heartfelt homage to loyalty and resilience. Inspired by Jennings’ experiences and friendships, it echoes the universal story of love, dedication, and the strength of character often found in “good-hearted” women. Jennings, known for his role in the Outlaw Country movement, captures this sentiment with genuine warmth and grit, making it one of his most beloved tracks.
About The Composition
- Title: Good Hearted Woman
- Composer: Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson
- Premiere Date: Released as a single in 1971, with a popular duet version in 1975
- Album: Good Hearted Woman
- Genre: Country (Outlaw Country)
Background
“Good Hearted Woman” was born from an idea Jennings had while on tour with Willie Nelson. The two legends crafted the song after seeing a newspaper article about a woman’s unconditional love for her wayward partner, which resonated deeply with both. Jennings and Nelson channeled the song’s inspiration to capture the struggle and joy of enduring relationships, especially those that thrive despite challenges. Upon release, it resonated with listeners, quickly cementing itself as a classic and embodying the spirit of the burgeoning Outlaw Country movement—a subgenre characterized by raw, unfiltered lyrics and a break from traditional Nashville conventions.
Musical Style
The musical arrangement of “Good Hearted Woman” perfectly complements its heartfelt lyrics. Jennings and Nelson’s distinct voices blend over a solid rhythm section, with guitars, bass, and drums delivering a straightforward, almost conversational quality to the music. This simplicity adds to the song’s warmth, making it feel intimate and genuine. Jennings’ baritone and Nelson’s gentle phrasing lend authenticity, enhancing the song’s impact.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Good Hearted Woman” revolve around themes of loyalty, love, and forgiveness. They celebrate the unwavering patience and understanding of a woman who loves a man despite his flaws and rebellious ways. Lines like “A good-hearted woman in love with a good-timin’ man” embody the paradox of challenging yet deeply connected relationships. This storytelling quality is quintessentially country, resonating with fans who see themselves reflected in the song’s honesty.
Performance History
The song’s popularity only grew over time, with notable performances across country music stages worldwide. Its 1975 duet version with Willie Nelson became a hit, reinforcing the partnership between these two Outlaw Country icons. Since then, it’s been covered by various artists and remains a staple in Jennings’ discography, often featured in tributes to him and the Outlaw Country movement.
Cultural Impact
“Good Hearted Woman” is more than a song; it’s a cultural symbol of loyalty and resilience. Its themes have found resonance beyond the country music world, as it represents timeless values celebrated in other media forms, including film, television, and literature. Its portrayal of a complicated, deeply human relationship has made it a relatable anthem, extending its influence well beyond Jennings’ original intent.
Legacy
To this day, “Good Hearted Woman” continues to touch audiences, with its timeless message about love, loyalty, and resilience in relationships. It’s a song that speaks to the heart, transcending its genre and era. For many, it’s not just a classic—it’s a reminder of the strength it takes to love unconditionally, making it as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.
Conclusion
“Good Hearted Woman” is a testament to Jennings’ talent and ability to touch the heart with his music. For those new to the song, exploring the original recording or the duet version with Nelson offers a glimpse into the depth of the Outlaw Country genre. This piece stands as a reminder that the best music often comes from a place of truth, and “Good Hearted Woman” is a perfect example of this timeless power.
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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