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 inward
Lord knows I’ve tried It’s an awful awakenin’ In a country boy’s life When you look in the mirror In total surprise At the hair on your shoulders And the age in your eyes.Amanda light of my life
Fate should have made you a gentle man’s wife Amanda light of my life Fate should have made you a gentle man’s wife.Well the measure of people
Don’t understand The pleasures of life In a hillbilly band I got my first guitar When I was fourteen Now I’m crowding thirty And still wearin’ jeans.Amanda light of my life
Fate should have made you a gentle man’s wife Amanda light of my life Fate should have made you a gentle man’s wife.