Are the Good Times Really Over (I Wish a Buck Was Still Silver)

"Are the Good Times Really Over (I Wish a Buck Was Still Silver)" is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Merle Haggard, backed by The Strangers. It was released in May 1982 as the third single from his album Big City. The song reached #2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart[ Merle Haggard Billboard Singles] and #1 on the RPM Country Tracks chart in Canada.RPM Country Tracks

Content The theme of the song is the concern over seemingly irreversible moral decay. It features a wide range of references including pop culture topics such as The Beatles and Elvis; American companies like Ford, Chevy, and Coca-Cola; political topics including the Vietnam War and presidency of Richard Nixon, as well as social commentary on modern men's work ethic, and women's lack of skill and willingness to cook.

The song ends much more positive nod to the future, declaring that the best of the free life is still yet to come and that the good times aren’t over.

Charts

Weekly charts Chart (1982)PeakpositionCanadian RPM Country Tracks1

Year-end charts Chart (1982)PositionUS Hot Country Songs (Billboard)27

References