Riley Green's Heartfelt Tribute: "I Wish Grandpas Never Died"

Riley Green lists his two grandfathers as co-writers on "I Wish Grandpas Never Died" because the song is that personal. Lyrically, this nostalgic country ballad reflects on the good things in life we often miss, such as old dogs, first kisses, manners, and cherished moments with grandfathers. It resonates deeply with many listeners, evoking memories and emotions tied to family and simpler times.

Green, a notable 2019 Taste of Country RISERS artist, has captivated audiences by performing this song live. After fan videos went viral, his label team made the strategic decision to switch radio singles. While "In Love by Now" was gaining traction, the undeniable connection people felt with "I Wish Grandpas Never Died" could not be overlooked. In an interview with Taste of Country, Green opened up about the significant influence his grandfathers had on his life and music.

"My Grandaddy Buford was the country guy," Green shared, reminiscing about the musical legacy of his family. "He was really into artists like Merle Haggard, Roy Acuff, Hank Williams, and ... that was what I learned to sing and play." He explained that it was his grandfather's encouragement that helped him find his voice and develop his musical roots. Their time together, filled with harmonica tunes and guitar lessons, shaped the artist he is today.

Watch Riley Green Perform "I Wish Grandpas Never Died"

Sadly, Buford Green passed away nearly a decade ago, and Lendon Bonds, who inspired the fishing verse in the song, died in 2018. However, he was fortunate enough to witness his grandson perform at the Grand Ole Opry. "I Wish Grandpas Never Died" is set to be featured on Green's upcoming album, Different 'Round Here, which is scheduled for release on September 20.

Riley Green's "I Wish Grandpa's Never Died" Lyrics:

I wish girls you loved never gave back diamond rings / I wish every porch had a swing / Wish kids still learned to say sir and ma’am and how to shake a hand / I wish every state had a Birmingham.

I wish everybody knew all the words to Mama Tried / I wish Monday mornings felt just like Friday nights.

Chorus:
And I wish even cars had truck beds / And every road was named Copperhead / And coolers never run out of cold Bud Light / And I wish high school home teams never lost / And back road drinkin' kids never got caught / And I wish the price of gas was low and cotton was high / I wish honky-tonks didn’t have no closing time / And I wish grandpas never died.

I wish Sunday’s on a creek bank would never end / Wish I could learn to drive again / Wish the first time, seventeen, she was my everything / Kiss in a Chevrolet could happen every day.

I wish everybody overseas was gonna make it home / I wish country music still got played on country radio.

Repeat Chorus

And I wish good dogs never got grey and old / I wish farms never got sold.

Repeat Chorus

Watch: Riley Green's Cover of "Cold Beer With Your Name On It"

Riley Green's Different 'Round Here Track Listing:

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