“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine standing in a moment you wish you could freeze forever—a moment filled with love, joy, or even bittersweet reflection. Scotty McCreery’s “Five More Minutes” captures this universal yearning in a song that feels as much like a diary entry as it does a musical masterpiece. Inspired by personal loss and precious memories, McCreery delivers a ballad that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever wished for just a little more time.
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 Scotty McCreery’s personal experience of losing his grandfather. Written in 2015, McCreery found a way to channel his emotions into a song that not only memorializes his loved one but also reflects the universal sentiment of wishing for more time. After struggling to release music following his departure from his first record label, this track became a pivotal point in McCreery’s career.
The song debuted on the Grand Ole Opry stage before being officially released in 2017. It marked a career-defining moment for McCreery, earning him his first No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and demonstrating his growth as a storyteller in the country music genre.
Musical Style
“Five More Minutes” is a heartfelt ballad built on simple yet evocative instrumentation. Acoustic guitar and piano form the backbone of the track, allowing McCreery’s rich baritone voice to shine. The song’s structure alternates between reflective verses and an emotionally charged chorus, creating an intimate and powerful narrative arc.
Its restrained production complements the raw vulnerability of the lyrics, making it feel as though McCreery is inviting listeners into his personal world. The pacing mirrors the reflective nature of the song’s theme, with its gradual build leading to a cathartic final chorus.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Five More Minutes” are a poignant reflection on moments that define a lifetime. From childhood memories on the baseball field to the final moments with a loved one, the song paints vivid images of life’s fleeting beauty. The recurring plea for “five more minutes” serves as a powerful reminder to cherish each moment while it lasts.
The universality of the lyrics is what makes the song so impactful—it isn’t just McCreery’s story; it’s everyone’s story. The themes of love, loss, and the passage of time resonate with listeners of all ages.
Performance History
“Five More Minutes” premiered at the Grand Ole Opry, where McCreery’s emotional performance earned a standing ovation. Since its release, the song has been a staple in his live shows, often leaving audiences in tears.
Notable performances include his appearance on The Today Show and the CMA Fest, where McCreery’s connection to the song was palpable. The track’s success extended to television, where it was prominently featured in Hallmark’s movie of the same name, further cementing its cultural impact.
Cultural Impact
The song’s impact goes beyond the realm of country music. It has been embraced as an anthem for life’s most poignant moments, often played at graduations, weddings, and memorials. Its inclusion in Hallmark’s movie introduced it to an even broader audience, proving its universal appeal.
“Five More Minutes” has inspired countless fans to share their own stories of love and loss, creating a community of listeners who find solace in its message. It’s a rare example of a song that bridges generational and cultural divides, uniting people in their shared humanity.
Legacy
“Five More Minutes” stands as one of Scotty McCreery’s most iconic works. Its timeless message ensures that it will remain a staple in country music for years to come. The song’s blend of personal vulnerability and universal relatability makes it a modern classic, one that will continue to touch hearts long after its initial release.
Conclusion
“Five More Minutes” isn’t just a song—it’s a reminder to savor every moment and hold your loved ones close. Scotty McCreery’s heartfelt delivery and masterful storytelling make it a piece that lingers long after the final note. If you haven’t heard it yet, I highly recommend experiencing the magic of this track, whether through the original recording or a live performance.
It’s not just music; it’s life set to melody.
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