Released in 1990, “Friends in Low Places” became one of Garth Brooks’ most iconic songs and a defining moment in his career. The song, written by Dewayne Blackwell and Earl Bud Lee, tells the story of a man crashing his ex-girlfriend’s high-society wedding, unbothered by the situation and finding comfort among his “friends in low places.” Here’s a deeper look into the background and success of this country classic.
Origins of the Song
The idea for “Friends in Low Places” emerged from a casual moment at a Nashville eatery in 1989. Earl Bud Lee reportedly forgot his wallet while out with friends and reassured them by saying, “Don’t worry, I have friends in low places—I know the cook.” This offhand comment sparked inspiration for the song’s title, but it wasn’t until months later at a party that Lee and Blackwell began writing the lyrics. They famously jotted down much of the song on napkins during the event.
Garth Brooks’ Role
At the time the song was written, Garth Brooks was still an unknown artist trying to break into the Nashville scene. Blackwell and Lee had met Brooks while he was working as a shoe salesman, and they had him sing on demo recordings. When they wrote “Friends in Low Places,” they knew Brooks’ wide vocal range would be perfect for it. Although Brooks had just finished recording his debut album, he agreed to record a demo for them. By the time he was ready to release his second album No Fences, he included “Friends in Low Places” as its lead single—and it became an instant hit.
Success and Cultural Impact
“Friends in Low Places” spent four weeks at number one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and won Single of the Year at both the Academy of Country Music Awards and Country Music Association Awards in 1990. The song resonated with audiences due to its relatable theme—an outsider crashing a fancy event—and its unapologetic tone. The chorus, with its memorable line “I’ve got friends in low places,” became an anthem for those who felt more at home among everyday people than in high society.
The Third Verse
While the original recording only included two verses, Garth Brooks often added a third verse during live performances. This verse takes the song’s defiance up a notch, with Brooks’ character delivering a final mic-drop moment: “Sweet little lady, I’ll head back to the bar, and you can kiss my ass”. Fans loved this addition, making it a staple of his concerts.
Musical Structure
Musically, “Friends in Low Places” follows a simple verse-chorus structure typical of country music. It starts with an acoustic guitar intro before building up to full band involvement during the chorus. The song’s melody is catchy, but what truly sets it apart is Brooks’ vocal delivery. He emphasizes certain words like “low,” “beer,” and “Oasis,” creating dynamic shifts that mirror the ups and downs of relationships.
Legacy
Over three decades after its release, “Friends in Low Places” remains one of Garth Brooks’ most beloved songs. It has become so iconic that Brooks even named his Nashville honky-tonk bar after it. The song continues to be sung at weddings, parties, and karaoke nights across the country—a testament to its lasting appeal.
In conclusion, “Friends in Low Places” is more than just a country hit; it’s a cultural touchstone that solidified Garth Brooks’ place as one of country music’s biggest stars. Its blend of humor, relatability, and defiance has made it timeless.
