A quintessential country ballad, released in July of 1997, that beautifully encapsulates the bittersweet ache of a love lost. Jackson, a towering figure in the genre, has always excelled at weaving relatable narratives through his poignant lyrics and smooth vocals, and There Goes is a prime example.
Background
This song arrived at the tail end of Jackson’s golden era, a period between the late 80s and late 90s that saw him churn out one country classic after another. There Goes came from his critically acclaimed album, Everything I Love, which also produced mega-hits like “Little Man” and “Country Boy.” Interestingly, There Goes wasn’t initially intended to be a single. But after radio stations began playing it heavily due to audience demand, it skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, solidifying its place as a modern country staple.
Now, let’s delve into the song itself. The melancholic melody, driven by a gentle acoustic guitar and punctuated by weeping steel guitar, sets the stage for Jackson’s signature baritone. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love story gone wrong. The narrator witnesses his former flame driving away, leaving behind a trail of memories and a heart heavy with regret.
There Goes doesn’t delve into the nitty-gritty details of the break-up. Instead, it focuses on the lingering emotions – the ache of loss, the yearning for what could have been, and the acceptance of a new reality. Lines like “Empty coffee cup on the counter by the door” and “The radio’s still playin’ that song we used to love” create a poignant intimacy, inviting the listener into the narrator’s emotional state.
The beauty of There Goes lies in its universal appeal. While the imagery evokes a rural landscape – a pickup truck, a dusty road – the core message transcends geographical boundaries. It speaks to the universal human experience of love, heartbreak, and the bittersweet pang of nostalgia.
Jackson’s masterful delivery further elevates the song. He imbues the lyrics with a quiet sincerity, avoiding melodrama while conveying the depth of the narrator’s pain. There’s a sense of resignation in his voice, a quiet acceptance that the relationship is over, but also a flicker of hope that someday, the pain might lessen.
There Goes stands as a testament to Alan Jackson’s songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. It’s a timeless ballad, a song that continues to resonate with anyone who has ever loved and lost. So, when you hear the opening chords of There Goes, settle in, prepare to be transported to a world of bittersweet memories, and allow yourself to be swept away by the timeless beauty of this country classic.
Harley