About the song
Background
- Released in 1991 on Tim McGraw’s debut album “Tim McGraw” [Tim McGraw albums Wikipedia].
- The song became a breakout hit for McGraw, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart [Billboard Tim McGraw Chart History].
- “Real Good Man” helped establish McGraw’s image as a charismatic country singer with a rebellious streak.
Themes
- Confident Bad Boy with a Good Heart: The song portrays a man who acknowledges his flaws but emphasizes his capacity for genuine love and commitment.
- Living in the Moment: The lyrics celebrate enjoying life’s experiences without dwelling on the future.
- Challenge to Societal Expectations: The song playfully pushes back against societal norms of what a “good man” should be.
Lyrics
The lyrics create a charmingly rebellious persona:
- Opening Lines: “Girl you’ve never known no one like me / Up there in your high society” establish the contrast between the woman and the singer.
- Chorus: The central theme unfolds: “I may be a real bad boy / But baby I’m a real good man”
- Verses: The singer details his flaws (“I may drink too much and play too loud”) but assures his love and respect (“Yes sir, yes ma’am”).
- The bridge acknowledges his wild side (“I might have a reckless streak / At least a country mile wide”) but promises an exciting adventure.
McGraw’s Performance
McGraw’s vocals deliver a playful confidence that embodies the song’s character. The music itself has a driving beat and a touch of rock influence, reflecting the rebellious spirit alongside the country foundation.
Overall
“Real Good Man” is a fun and catchy song that helped launch Tim McGraw’s career. It established his signature blend of charm, rebelliousness, and a commitment to love, themes that would continue throughout his successful music career.
Video
Lyrics
Girl, you’ve never known no one like me
Up there in your high society
They might tell you I’m no good
Girl, they need to understand
Just who I am
I may be a real bad boy
But baby, I’m a real good man
I may drink too much and play too loud
Hang out with a rough and rowdy crowd
That don’t mean I don’t respect my mama or my Uncle Sam
Yes sir, yes ma’am
I may be a real bad boy
But baby, I’m a real good man
I might have a reckless streak
At least a country-mile wide
If you’re gonna run with me
It’s gonna be a wild ride
When it comes to loving you
I’ve got velvet hands
I’ll show you how a real bad boy
Can be a real good man
Here we go
I take all the good times I can get
I’m too young for growing up just yet
Ain’t much I can promise you
‘Cept to do the best I can
I’ll be damned
I may be a real bad boy
But baby, I’m a real good man
I may be a real bad boy
Oh, but baby, I’m a real good man
Yes, I am