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Introduction:

“A Good Year For The Roses” is a poignant country ballad that showcases the unparalleled vocal talents of two legendary artists, George Jones and Alan Jackson. Released in 1995, the song became an instant classic, solidifying its place in the hearts of country music fans worldwide.

The collaboration between these two country titans was a match made in musical heaven. George Jones, often referred to as the “Possum,” was already a revered figure in country music, known for his raw emotion and soulful delivery. His voice, filled with both pain and longing, became synonymous with heartbreak ballads. Alan Jackson, a rising star in the 1990s, brought a fresh, traditional sound to the genre. His rich baritone voice complemented Jones’s style perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of old and new country.

“A Good Year For The Roses” is a masterclass in storytelling. The lyrics, penned by Harlan Howard and Hugh Moffitt, paint a vivid picture of a man haunted by the memory of a lost love. The song’s melancholic melody, combined with the heartfelt vocals, creates a powerful emotional impact. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken heart.

The production of “A Good Year For The Roses” is simple yet effective, allowing the vocal performances to take center stage. The track’s understated instrumentation creates a nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s lyrical content.

The song’s success was undeniable. It topped the Billboard Country Singles chart and earned numerous accolades, including the Country Music Association’s Vocal Event of the Year award. “A Good Year For The Roses” became one of the most beloved duets in country music history, showcasing the enduring power of the genre to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.

Beyond its commercial success, the song has become a timeless piece of country music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the exceptional talents of George Jones and Alan Jackson, as well as the universal themes explored in the lyrics. “A Good Year For The Roses” continues to touch the hearts of listeners, proving that great music knows no boundaries of time or genre.

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Lyrics:

“A Good Year For The Roses”
I can hardly bear the sight of lipstick
On the cigarettes there in the ashtray
Lyin’ cold the way you left them
At least your lips caressed them
While you packedAnd a lip print on a half filled cup of coffee
That you poured and didn’t drink
But at least you thought you wanted it
That’s so much more than I can say for me

But what a good year for the roses
Many blooms still linger there
The lawn could stand another mowin’
It’s funny, I don’t even care
And when you turned and walked away
And as the door behind you closes
The only thing I know to say
It’s been a good year for the roses

After three full years of marriage
It’s the first time that you
Haven’t made the bed
I guess the reason we’re not talkin’
There’s so little left to say
We haven’t said
While a million thoughts
Go runnin’ through my mind
I find I haven’t spoke a word
And from the bedroom those familiar sounds of our one baby’s cryin’
Goes unheard

But what a good year for the roses
Many blooms still linger there
The lawn could stand another mowin’
It’s funny, I don’t even care
And when you turned and walked away
And as the door behind you closes
The only thing I know to say
It’s been a good year for the roses