Introduction:
Released in 1974, “Talk About the Good Times” by Elvis Presley is a melancholic ballad that dwells on themes of community, friendship, and a longing for a bygone era. The song marked a shift in Presley’s career, moving away from the rock and roll sound of his early years and towards a more country-tinged style. This change reflected not only Presley’s own musical evolution but also the broader trends in American popular music during the 1970s.
“Talk About the Good Times” was written by songwriter Jerry Reed Hubbard. Hubbard, a country musician himself, crafted a song that resonated with Presley, who was reportedly nearing the end of a long and tumultuous relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. The song’s producer, Felton Jarvis, was a longtime collaborator with Presley and helped shape the track’s mellow and introspective mood.
Despite its somber themes, “Talk About the Good Times” achieved considerable commercial success. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of Presley’s highest-ranking singles in the latter part of his career. It also topped the Billboard Easy Listening chart, further solidifying its crossover appeal.
“Talk About the Good Times” endured as a fan favorite. Presley regularly performed the song during his concerts in the 1970s, and it remains a popular choice for tribute artists and Elvis compilations. The song’s simple yet powerful message of nostalgia and a yearning for connection continues to resonate with listeners today.
“Talk About the Good Times” can also be seen as a reflection of the social and cultural climate of the mid-1970s. The United States was grappling with economic recession, the aftermath of the Vietnam War, and the Watergate scandal. In this context, the song’s sentimentality offered a sense of comfort and a reminder of simpler times.
While not one of Presley’s most rock and roll songs, “Talk About the Good Times” stands as a testament to his versatility as a singer and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to the universal human desire for connection, community, and a sense of belonging.
Video:
Lyrics:
Well i remember when i was as children
The time the people used to treat the neighbor like a fellow man
And all their singin’ and big prayer meetin’s
When a man was proud to walk up and shake his neighbors handOh you talk about the good times,
Talk about the good times
Oh if you ever needed help a friend was there
Some good neighbor
Help lift your burden
Mmm, and the simple joys of life a friend would shareTimes are harder and the people are changin’
Now most folks couldn’t tell you who their neighbors are
All their guns are loaded, the front doors are bolted
Ain’t this ol’ world takin’ hate and fear just a little too farOh you talk about the good times,
Talk about the good times
I wish i could go back to the days i’m speakin of
When a friend would meet you
And a smile would greet you
What this ol’ world needs now is a little old fashioned loveMy granddaddy god rest his soul now
Well we had a big long talk together the day he died
Said son this world is full of hate and venom
An’ i can’t wait to leave this ol’ place and rest on the other sideOh you talk about the good times, talk about the good times
Talk about the good times
I’m gonna see all the friends i knew in the good ol’ days
We’ll have a big hand shakin’
An’ sit and talk together
Sit down by the river jordan and sing our blues awayOh you talk about the good times, talk about the good times
Talk about the good times
I’m gonna see all the friends i knew in the good ol’ days
We’ll have a big hand shakin’
An’ sit and talk together
Sit down by the river jordan and sing our blues awayOh you talk about the good times, talk about the good times
Talk about the good times
I’m gonna see all the friends i knew in the good ol’ days
We’ll have a big hand shakin’
An’ sit and talk together
Sit down by the river jordan and sing our blues away