“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something profoundly moving about a song that captures the raw emotions of saying goodbye to a loved one. Joey+Rory’s To Say Goodbye is one such song that resonates deeply with listeners, offering a tender reflection on love, loss, and the moments we wish we could relive. Inspired by the duo’s genuine storytelling and personal connection to their music, this song stands as a powerful testament to their artistry.
About The Composition
- Title: To Say Goodbye
- Composer: Rory Feek and Jamie Teachenor
- Premiere Date: 2009 (album release date)
- Album/Collection: Album Number Two
- Genre: Country
Background:
Released on Joey+Rory’s sophomore album Album Number Two, To Say Goodbye tells the poignant stories of individuals grappling with grief and the longing to bid farewell to their loved ones. The song draws from deeply personal experiences and universal themes, making it both intimate and widely relatable. Its simple yet evocative storytelling reflects the duo’s ability to connect with their audience through authenticity and heart.
The song was warmly received by fans and critics alike for its emotional depth and lyrical precision, cementing Joey+Rory’s place in the country music landscape as artists who prioritize heartfelt narratives over mainstream trends.
Musical Style
To Say Goodbye exemplifies Joey+Rory’s signature blend of traditional country sounds and heartfelt lyrics. The song is built around gentle acoustic instrumentation, allowing Joey Feek’s tender, emotive voice to shine. The subtle use of steel guitars and soft harmonies enhances the song’s nostalgic and reflective tone. The pacing is deliberately slow, mirroring the heavy emotions conveyed in the lyrics, and each note seems to linger as if offering listeners time to process their own feelings of loss.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of To Say Goodbye weave stories of regret and yearning. From a widow wishing she could have one more moment with her husband lost in the 9/11 tragedy, to a man reflecting on the unanswered questions left behind after his wife’s passing, the song delves into the universal struggle of unfinished goodbyes. The themes of love, memory, and longing are intricately tied to the music, creating a poignant connection that leaves a lasting impact.
Performance History
Joey+Rory performed To Say Goodbye as part of their live shows, often leaving audiences visibly moved by its sincerity. While not a mainstream hit, the song has gained a loyal following among fans of authentic country music. Its intimate nature often resonates more profoundly in smaller, heartfelt settings rather than large commercial stages.
Cultural Impact
While To Say Goodbye might not have achieved widespread radio play, its cultural significance lies in its ability to comfort those dealing with loss. The song has been used in memorial services and shared among fans as a source of solace during difficult times. It remains a powerful example of how music can provide emotional healing and serve as a bridge to shared human experiences.
Legacy
The legacy of To Say Goodbye is intertwined with Joey+Rory’s broader contribution to country music: their authenticity, simplicity, and commitment to telling real stories. This song is a shining example of their ability to turn personal and collective grief into art that continues to touch hearts long after its release. It stands as a reminder of Joey Feek’s enduring impact on country music and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Conclusion
Listening to To Say Goodbye feels like a gentle embrace—a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. Whether you’re discovering this song for the first time or revisiting it, it’s a piece that encourages reflection and healing. For a truly heartfelt experience, I recommend the version on Album Number Two—Joey’s voice, combined with Rory’s songwriting, is sure to leave you deeply moved.
Video
Lyrics
He said I’ll call you hun when I get there
Ten minutes later he was in the air
She dropped the kids at school and headed home
Walked in and turned the front room TV on
She could tell that there was something wrong
Every channel had the same thing on
Now seven years have come and gone away
But she’s still hurtin’ like it’s yesterday
Cause she wants to put her arms around his neck
And look in his eyes so blue
And say honey I don’t regret
A single day I spent with you
She wants to tell him that she loves him so
And will until the day she dies
It ain’t that she can’t let him go
She just wants to say goodbye
He sits beside her in the nursing home
Through her silver hair he runs a comb
He hangs their wedding picture on the wall
She don’t remember who he is at all
He tells her stories bout the life they’ve lived
From their first kiss to their last grandkids
For seven months now she just sits and stares
But if she wakes up he’s gonna be right there
Cause he wants to put his arms around her neck
And look in her eyes so blue
And say honey I won’t forget
A single day I spent with you
He wants to tell her that he loves her so
And will until the day he dies
It ain’t that he can’t let her go
He just wants to say goodbye
No it ain’t that we can’t let ‘em go
We just want to say goodbye