We have all seen it. The drama at table 9. The guest, or bridesmaid, or member of the wedding party possibly surrounded by several friends all trying desperately to provide comfort and/or emotional support.
Part of the grand guignol that is a big wedding reception.
Back in the day it would have been the scenario heard round the water cooler. Actually, I never worked at a place that had a water cooler, but certainly a juicy meltdown story livens up the breakroom like a mouse darting out of the cupboard beneath the sink when someone goes looking for the dish soap bottle.
Suffice to say that this spectacle can be avoided or at least postponed if the DJ will exercise a little care in selecting their tunes to spin. Yes, just as there are tunes that can cause a rush of bridesmaids all shouting "woo!!!" to commandeer the dancefloor, while other songs can trigger a spate of vertical makeout sessions, certain songs WILL cause at least one lucky soul to cry. Hysterically.
One song I would never play is Ray Price's classic recording of "For the Good Times." Fun fact: "For the Good Times" was written by Kris Kristofferson, and first recorded by singer Bill Nash in 1968 before it appeared on Kristofferson's own debut album in April 1970. In fact, For the Good Times was a huge crossover hit, easily making the transition from country to pop music where it was a staple in "easy listening" land.
Let's face it, the lyrics are heartbreaking. A couple are sharing their last intimate hours together, both knowing that their relationship will be over when the Sun rises. I think that is the power of the song, the paradox that these two people still very much love each other, but can't find a way to make it work. NOTE: This is so sad my eyes are misting up as I type this.
Hear the whisper of the raindrops
Blowin' soft against my window
Make believe you love me
one more time...
For the good times.
I promise you, someone in that room is going to lose it. Someone whose heart hasn't quite moved on from that last passionate relationship. The one that was supposed to be the "forever" relationship. This is an emotional powder keg that just needs a little help to set it off. Add Ray Price's profoundly heartfelt vocal to a beautiful, haunting arrangement (from the first bar where the strings grab your attention) add alcohol, and stir.
Let's just be glad we have this time to spend together
There's no need to watch the bridges that we're burning
Lay your head
Upon my pillow
Hold your warm and tender body
Close to mine...
The mascara has not been formulated that can withstand the impassioned waterworks this song unleashes.
So DJs, don't do it. Play the "Chicken Dance" if you must (no, don't really) but avoid this tune. Your karma will thank you.
Hear the entire tune on Youtube by clicking HERE
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