About the song
Background
- “Amanda” was written by Bob McDill and released in 1973.
- Don Williams recorded it as the B-side to his song “Come Early Morning.” While “Come Early Morning” reached No. 12 on the country charts, “Amanda” only reached No. 33.
- Country singer Waylon Jennings also covered the song in 1974, and his version became a much bigger hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for three weeks.
Themes
- The song explores the themes of lost love, regret, and nostalgia.
- The narrator reflects on a past relationship with Amanda, remembering her beauty and the joy they shared.
- There’s a sense of longing for what could have been, but also an acceptance that the relationship is over.
Lyrics
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Amanda and the narrator’s time together. Here are some key lines:
- “Amanda, they say you married young” – This line establishes that the relationship is in the past.
- “Summer nights, we’d walk by the water, hand in hand” – This creates a nostalgic image of their youthful happiness.
- “I wonder if you ever think about me” – This expresses the narrator’s longing for Amanda.
- “Maybe it’s better this way” – This suggests a bittersweet acceptance of the situation.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve held it all inwardLord knows I’ve triedIt’s an awful awakenin’In a country boy’s lifeWhen you look in the mirrorIn total surpriseAt the hair on your shouldersAnd the age in your eyes.
Amanda light of my lifeFate should have made you a gentle man’s wifeAmanda light of my lifeFate should have made you a gentle man’s wife.
Well the measure of peopleDon’t understandThe pleasures of lifeIn a hillbilly bandI got my first guitarWhen I was fourteenNow I’m crowding thirtyAnd still wearin’ jeans.
Amanda light of my lifeFate should have made you a gentle man’s wifeAmanda light of my lifeFate should have made you a gentle man’s wife.