“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a night in 1983, where the gentle strumming of a guitar fills the air, accompanied by the warm, unmistakable voice of Merle Haggard. The room quiets as the melody of “That’s The Way Love Goes” begins to play—a song that would soon become a timeless classic. This song, like many of Haggard’s works, speaks to the heart of life’s simple truths and the complexities of love.
About The Composition
Title: That’s The Way Love Goes
Composer: Lefty Frizzell, Sanger D. Shafer
Premiere Date: August 1983
Album/Opus/Collection: That’s The Way Love Goes (Album)
Genre: Country
Background
The song “That’s The Way Love Goes” has an interesting history. Originally penned by Lefty Frizzell and Sanger D. Shafer in the early 1970s, the song was initially recorded by Johnny Rodriguez in 1973, where it achieved considerable success. However, it was Merle Haggard’s rendition a decade later that cemented the song’s place in country music history. Haggard, known for his ability to interpret songs with deep emotion, took this simple love song and turned it into an anthem of the bittersweet nature of love. The song became the title track of his 1983 album, which won him a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance.
Musical Style
Musically, “That’s The Way Love Goes” is a quintessential country ballad. The song is structured around a simple chord progression, allowing Haggard’s voice and the lyrics to take center stage. The instrumentation is classic country—soft guitar strumming, subtle piano accents, and a gentle rhythm section that supports but never overshadows the vocal performance. Haggard’s rendition is marked by its relaxed tempo and the way he effortlessly conveys the song’s message, as if he’s lived every word.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “That’s The Way Love Goes” are deceptively simple, yet they carry a profound truth about the nature of love. The song speaks to the inevitable ups and downs of relationships, with a resigned yet accepting tone. Lines like “That’s the way love goes, babe / That’s the music God made” encapsulate the idea that love, like life, is full of both joy and sorrow, and we must take the good with the bad.
Performance History
Merle Haggard’s version of “That’s The Way Love Goes” became one of his most successful singles, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1983. It was also a staple in his live performances, where it was often met with enthusiastic applause from audiences who connected deeply with its message. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, but Haggard’s version remains the definitive rendition.
Cultural Impact
“That’s The Way Love Goes” has had a lasting impact on country music, influencing both artists and songwriters alike. Its universal theme of love’s unpredictability has resonated with listeners for decades, and it continues to be a favorite in country music circles. The song has also appeared in various media, further solidifying its place in the cultural landscape.
Legacy
Even today, “That’s The Way Love Goes” remains a beloved classic. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Merle Haggard’s artistry and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The song’s message, that love is both beautiful and challenging, is as relevant today as it was when it was first recorded. It’s a reminder that love, in all its forms, is worth celebrating.
Conclusion
“That’s The Way Love Goes” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection on the complexities of love and life. Merle Haggard’s interpretation of this classic tune has touched the hearts of millions, and its message continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. If you haven’t yet experienced this timeless piece, I highly recommend giving it a listen. It’s a song that speaks to the soul and reminds us that, indeed, that’s just the way love goes.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been throwing horseshoes
Over my left shoulder
I’ve spent most all my life
Searching for that four-leaf clover
Yet you ran with me
Chasing my rainbows
Honey, I love you too
That’s the way love goes
That’s the way love goes, babe
That’s the music God made
For all the world to sing
It’s never old, it grows
Losing makes me sorry
You say, “Honey, now don’t worry
Don’t you know I love you too?”
And that’s the way love goes
That’s the way love goes, babe
That’s the music God made
For all the world to sing
It’s never old, it grows
Losing makes me sorry
And you say, “Honey, don’t worry
Don’t you know I love you too?”
And that’s the way love goes