Introduction:
Released in 2012 on Alan Jackson’s album Thirty Miles West, “Talk Is Cheap” stands as a notable country song that highlights themes of urgency, action, and the value of experiences over empty words. The album was Jackson’s first with ACR (Alan’s Country Records), marking a new chapter in his career after departing from Arista Nashville. Known for his traditional country style, Jackson infused this song with lyrical reflections on life and choices, encouraging listeners to seize opportunities rather than spend time discussing plans that may never materialize.
“Talk Is Cheap” was written by Chris Stapleton, Morgane Stapleton, and Guy Clark, adding an extra layer of significance due to Stapleton’s reputation as a country and Americana songwriter. The lyrics drive home the message that action holds more value than words, embodying a “live in the moment” philosophy. Lines like “Talk is cheap and times are wasting” suggest that simply talking about dreams and intentions isn’t enough; taking steps to fulfill them is what brings meaning to life. The chorus reinforces this message, using metaphors of wine tasting and road-taking to represent experiences that should be fully embraced.
As part of Thirty Miles West, the song contributes to an album that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and further cemented Jackson’s legacy in the genre. “Talk Is Cheap” aligns with Jackson’s neotraditional country sound, which honors classic country roots while incorporating contemporary themes and insights. Through this piece, Jackson and his collaborators echo the sentiment that while conversation has its place, real fulfillment comes from living boldly and purposefully.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Talk Is Cheap”
Talk about life, talk about death
Talk about catching every breath
Talk about when, and talk about why!
Talk about do, and talk about don’t
Talk about will and talk about won’t
Talk about the sweet [?][Chorus:]
Well, talk is cheap and times are wasting
Get busy living or at least die trying
Wine is for tasting, roads for taking
Talk is cheap and times are wasting!Talk about right, and talk about wrong
Talk about trying to get along
Talk about the way it all would be.
Talk about now, and talk about then
Talk about everywhere you’ve been
Talk about being free.[Chorus: (x2)]
Well, talk is cheap and times are wasting
Get busy living or at least die trying
Wine is for tasting, roads for taking
Talk is cheap and times are wasting!