That's The Way It Goes
Merle Haggard & Jewel Lyrics
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Over my left shoulder
I've spent most all my life
Searching for that four-leafed clover
Yet you ran with me
Chasing my rainbows
Honey I love you, too
That's the way love goes, babe
That's the music God made
For all the world to sing
It's never old it grows
Losing makes me sorry
You say, "Honey, now don't worry
Don't you know I love you too
And that's the way love goes
That's the way love goes babe
That's the music God made
And for all the world to sing
It's never old it grows
Losin' makes me sorry
You say, "Honey don't worry"
Don't you know I love you too
And that's the way love goes
In "That's the Way Love Goes," Merle Haggard and Jewel reflect on the ups and downs of love. The first two lines describe the traditional acts of seeking good luck in life, but the rest of the lyrics express the futility of such endeavors when it comes to finding love. The singer speaks of chasing rainbows with the one they love, revealing that despite the sadness that comes with losing, they still find comfort in their partner's love. They sing, "That's the way love goes, babe/ That's the music God made/ For all the world to sing/ It's never old it grows."
The song highlights the fact that love is unpredictable and can lead to both joy and pain. But even in those moments where things don't go as planned, the love shared between two people can remain steadfast. The lyrics also emphasize the beauty of love and how it continues to grow with time, never becoming old. Overall, "That's the Way Love Goes" is a testament to the enduring nature of love, despite the difficulties that often come with it.
Line by Line Meaning
I've been throwing horseshoes
I've been attempting to achieve good luck and success through traditional methods
Over my left shoulder
Tossing the horseshoes over a specific shoulder, which is believed to bring extra luck
I've spent most all my life
I have dedicated a significant amount of time to this pursuit
Searching for that four-leafed clover
I have been looking for a rare symbol of good fortune
Yet you ran with me
Despite my preoccupation with luck, you followed me on my journeys
Chasing my rainbows
Pursuing my dreams and aspirations, even if they are distant or unlikely
Honey I love you, too
I also have deep affection for you
And that's the way love goes
This is simply how love works, with both ups and downs
That's the way love goes, babe
This concept of fluctuating emotions is inherent to all romantic relationships
That's the music God made
Love is a natural phenomenon that transcends all cultures and religions
For all the world to sing
It is a universal experience that everyone can relate to
It's never old it grows
Love never loses its value and continues to evolve over time
Losing makes me sorry
I feel regretful and remorseful when I experience defeat
You say, "Honey, now don't worry"
You comfort me and alleviate my anxiety
Don't you know I love you too
I also have a strong affection for you
And that's the way love goes
This is simply how love works, with a mixture of success and failure
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: LEFTY FRIZZELL, SANGER SHAFER, SANGER D SHAFER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Dave Geisler
I’m glad Jewel had an opportunity to sing with Merle , they were perfect 🤩
Kathleen Rodrigues
Beautiful song! Merle & Jewell!❤️❤️❤️
Chuck Turner
Oh how her voice compliments Merle's when she sings harmony. She gets it.
J T
She has the most beautiful angelic voice. It's soothing, peaceful.
B Adams
One of the greatest duets. I don't it could be any worry. Just close your eyes and FEEL the brilliance and power of the song.
TONY ANZELLINO
Wow, what a great voice Jewel has, it complements Merle Haggard's singing voice. Country Music never dies, it get's better with age. Thank you for posting.
James Gowin
Always loved this song and have to say the Jewell really did it justice. Merle was, Merle...the best there ever was!
Timothy Gibbs
Absolutely beautiful! Jewell's harmony is incredible!
Tom Campfield
RIP MERLE!!!! Thanks for the many years of your wonderful talent!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Heaven really must have needed a great guitar player!!!!
Ken Arms
Two people who had it hard growing up and triumphed. Beautiful. Merle's voice was better than ever here. When he drops down to the low bass range on the last part of the word "life" at the 54 second mark I get chills.