“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Time—it’s a concept we all wrestle with. Moments slip through our fingers like grains of sand, leaving us wishing for just a little more. Scotty McCreery’s heartfelt ballad “Five More Minutes” encapsulates this universal sentiment with its poignant storytelling and emotional resonance. Inspired by personal experiences, this song strikes a chord with anyone who’s ever longed for more time with loved ones or cherished memories.
About The Composition
- Title: Five More Minutes
- Composer: Scotty McCreery, Frank Rogers, Monty Criswell
- Premiere Date: May 5, 2017
- Album/Opus/Collection: Seasons Change (2018)
- Genre: Country
Background:
“Five More Minutes” was born out of a deep emotional moment for Scotty McCreery following the passing of his grandfather. Written alongside Frank Rogers and Monty Criswell, the song captures snapshots of life—childhood memories, first love, and the grief of losing someone close—all tied together by the yearning for just a little more time. This single marked a milestone in McCreery’s career as his first independently released song, and it resonated deeply with fans, earning widespread acclaim. Its heartfelt lyrics and relatable themes led to its chart-topping success, ultimately reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart.
Musical Style
“Five More Minutes” is defined by its classic country ballad structure, featuring a gentle melody that swells with emotional intensity as the story unfolds. The instrumentation relies heavily on acoustic guitar and piano, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere that complements the reflective tone of the lyrics. Scotty’s rich baritone voice adds depth to the song’s narrative, drawing listeners into the heartfelt moments he describes. The gradual build of the arrangement mirrors the song’s emotional crescendo, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Five More Minutes” are a masterclass in storytelling. Each verse highlights a significant life moment—from innocent childhood play to bittersweet goodbyes—all centered around the regret of fleeting time. The chorus ties these moments together with the aching refrain, “Give myself five more minutes.” The song’s universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time resonate across all generations, making it both deeply personal and widely relatable.
Performance History
“Five More Minutes” debuted during a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry in 2016, where it brought the audience to tears. Its official release in 2017 quickly solidified it as one of McCreery’s standout hits. The song has since become a staple in his live performances, often serving as an emotional highlight of his setlist. Notably, its success as an independent release demonstrated McCreery’s staying power in the country music scene.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its chart-topping success, “Five More Minutes” has found a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. Its themes have been embraced in weddings, funerals, and moments of personal reflection, cementing its status as a modern country classic. The song’s universal message has also made it a popular choice for television shows and tributes, showcasing its ability to connect with audiences beyond the boundaries of country music.
Legacy
“Five More Minutes” remains one of Scotty McCreery’s most impactful songs, a testament to the power of authentic storytelling in music. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to remind us of life’s most precious moments and the importance of cherishing them while we can. The song continues to touch new listeners, proving that its message is as relevant today as it was at its debut.
Conclusion
“Five More Minutes” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of holding on to the moments that matter most. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Scotty McCreery or discovering this gem for the first time, this ballad is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. For an unforgettable rendition, check out Scotty’s live performance at the Grand Ole Opry—just be sure to have tissues on hand.
Video
Lyrics
Eight years old, couple cane poles sittin’ down by the creek
Lines in the water watchin’ those bobbers, seein’ that red sun sink
Mama’s on the porch yellin’, “Supper’s hot, y’all come and get it”
We yelled, “Five more minutes”
At sixteen it was 12:03 standin’ at her front door
Katie’s dad said midnight, but we needed just a little more
Yellow light flippin’ on and off, interruptin’ that goodnight kissin’
We wanted five more minutes
Time rolls by, the clock don’t stop
I wish I had a few more drops
Of the good stuff, the good times
Oh, but they just keep on flyin’
Right on by, like it ain’t nothin’
I wish I had me a, a pause button
Moments like those, Lord knows I’d hit it
And give myself five more minutes
At eighteen, turned my helmet in and walked to the fifty-yard line
Just the coach and me after we lost eighteen to nine
And I cried, “Man, next time to get in here, I’ll have to buy a ticket
Can’t you give me five more minutes?”
Time rolls by, the clock don’t stop
I wish I had a few more drops
Of the good stuff, the good times
Oh, but they just keep on flyin’
Right on by, like it ain’t nothin’
I wish I had me a, a pause button
Moments like those, Lord knows I’d hit it
And give myself five more minutes
At eighty-six my grandpa said, “There’s angels in the room”
All the family gathered ’round, knew the time was comin’ soon
With so much left to say I prayed, Lord, I ain’t finished
Just give us five more minutes
Time rolls by, the clock don’t stop
I wish I had a few more drops
Of the good stuff, the good times
Oh, but they just keep on flyin’
Right on by, like it ain’t nothin’
I wish I had me a, a pause button
Moments like those, Lord knows I’d hit it
Yeah, sometimes this old life will leave you wishin’
That you had five more minutes
Five more minutes