Zach Bryan emerged as a folk and country music sensation after his self-released album “DeAnn” in 2019. His original songwriting and raw vocal delivery quickly garnered him a dedicated fanbase.
The former Navy veteran’s music resonates with listeners through its unfiltered honesty and emotional depth.
Bryan’s sound blends traditional country elements with folk sensibilities, creating something that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
Albums like “Elisabeth” and “American Heartbreak” solidified his reputation as a genuine voice in modern country music.
Despite his relatively recent rise to prominence, Bryan’s impact on the country music landscape has been significant.
His success through independent releases and word-of-mouth has demonstrated the power of original storytelling in an industry often criticized for commercialization.
About the Song
“The Good I’ll Do” is one of Zach Bryan’s most poignant tracks, released on May 20, 2022, as part of his triple album “American Heartbreak.”
The song showcases Bryan’s exceptional storytelling abilities through its heartfelt lyrics about unwavering devotion and the sacrifices one makes for love. Its stripped-back production allows his emotive vocals to take center stage.
It quickly became a fan favorite and one of Bryan’s signature songs, cementing his reputation as a songwriter capable of capturing deep emotional truths with disarming simplicity.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Good I’ll Do |
| Artist | Zach Bryan |
| Release Date | May 20, 2022 |
| Album | American Heartbreak |
| Writers | Zach Bryan |
| Producers | Ryan Hadlock, Zach Bryan |
| Genre | Americana, Folk, Country |
| Chart Peak | #124 on Billboard 200 (as part of album) |
| #11 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums | |
| #4 on Billboard’s Folk/Americana Albums | |
| Album Certification | Gold certified by RIAA |
The Good I’ll Do: Lyrics
Intro
Well, in you
The good I’ll do, good I’ll do, oh, good I’ll do
Verse 1
The way the grass smells at night and you got flames all in your eyes
As they reflect the sparkler and you say we’ll never die
Grab me by the hands, just as callused as I am and say you’re proud
Verse 2
Well, it’s blue jeans in the driveway and you’re walkin’ inside sideways
The wine always affects you in beautiful, kind ways
Ask me if I’m stayin’ and I’ll say that I’m sleepin’ on the floor
Verse 3
Won’t you tell me that you need me ’cause lately I’ve been needin’
Someone to remind me, worth more than just an evenin’
I awoke to kitchen smoke, you dancin’ like God’s moved in you before
Chorus
Well, in you
The good I’ll do, good I’ll do, oh, good I’ll do
Well, in you
I’m new, I’m new, oh, how I’m new
Instrumental Break
Verse 4
Well, look in my eyes, I don’t wanna hide
I’ve been waitin’ for you all damn night
Sundress I’ll undress with nails on your skin turnin’ white
Verse 5
And gettin’ high out in Austin, drunk in Tennessee
I don’t care where I am as long as you’re with me
Those boys downtown talk so much shit when I leave
Chorus
Well, in you
The good I’ll do, good I’ll do, oh, good I’ll do
‘Cause in you
I’m new, I’m new, oh, how I’m new
Outro
The way the grass smells at night and you got flames all in your eyes
As they reflect the sparkler and you say we’ll never die
Grab me by the hands, just as callused as I am and say you’re proud
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
With its stripped-down folk instrumentation and Bryan’s raw, emotive vocals, “The Good I’ll Do” resonates with anyone who has experienced the deep change that comes with deep love.
The song beautifully captures the essence of how loving someone can make us better versions of ourselves.
Intro
Well, in you …… the good I’ll do
He starts by saying that being with her brings out the best in him. It’s not just love—it’s about becoming someone better because she exists in his life.
Verse 1
The way the grass smells at night …… you got flames all in your eyes
He remembers a quiet night, lit by sparklers, where she looked at him with fire in her eyes. Her pride in him, and their shared roughness, made him feel deeply connected and seen.
Verse 2
Blue jeans in the driveway … you’re walking inside sideways
She’s a little drunk, stumbling in, and it makes her even more lovable to him. Even if things are messy or unplanned, he’s happy to be wherever she is.
Verse 3
Won’t you tell me that you need me … lately I’ve been needin’
He feels lost and wants her to say she needs him too. Watching her dance in the smoky kitchen reminds him of joy, love, and how deeply she moves him.
Chrous
Well, in you … I’m new, I’m new
She makes him feel like a new person. Her love shifts something inside him, pushing him to do good, to be kind, and to care more than he did before.
Verse 4
Look in my eyes … I don’t wanna hide
He’s finally ready to open up and stop hiding. Her touch, her presence, and even the way she undresses pull him into a real and raw connection.
Verse 5
I don’t care where I am … as long as you’re with me
No matter where they are—high in Austin or drunk in Tennessee—he feels complete with her. He’s aware people talk, but their opinions mean nothing compared to what he has with her.
Outro
The way the grass smells at night … you got flames all in your eyes
He goes back to that sparkler night again. It’s burned into his memory because it showed him what it feels like to be loved, to be proud, and to be enough.
These powerful lines reveal not just a songwriter’s craft, but the universal human experiences that connect artist and listener through honest, deeply personal storytelling
Theme of The Song
“The Good I’ll Do” explores several emotional dimensions that resonate with many listeners:
- Unconditional Love: The song centers on the depth of devotion one person can have for another, illustrating love that persists regardless of circumstances or challenges.
- Self-Sacrifice: The narrator repeatedly emphasizes their willingness to make personal sacrifices for the benefit of their loved one, highlighting the selfless nature of deep love.
- Emotional Vulnerability: The lyrics reveal the singer’s willingness to be emotionally exposed, demonstrating how orignal love requires opening oneself to potential hurt.
- Steadfast Commitment: Rather than portraying love as fleeting emotion, the song presents it as an unwavering commitment that endures through difficult times and remains constant.
- Rural American Identity: Set against the backdrop of country living, the song connects themes of love and devotion to a distinctly American rural experience and traditional values.
These themes combine to create a powerful exploration of devoted love that continues to resonate with listeners across different backgrounds and experiences.
Similar Songs Like “The Good I’ll Do”
If you enjoy Zach Bryan’s heartfelt ballad “The Good I’ll Do,” here are songs that capture the same raw emotion, poetic lyricism, and intimate folk-country sound.
1. “Something in the Orange” – Zach Bryan
2. “Heading South” – Zach Bryan
3. “If We Were Vampires” – Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
4. “Cover Me Up” – Morgan Wallen
5. “All Your’n” – Tyler Childers
These songs share Bryan’s gift for turning personal stories into universal experiences through honest songwriting and original delivery.
Similar Artists Like Zach Bryan
If you enjoy Zach Bryan’s raw emotional storytelling, authentic vocals, and blend of folk, country, and Americana influences, you’ll likely appreciate these similar artists who share his honest lyricism and musical integrity.
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Tyler Childers: Kentucky-born songwriter known for his striking storytelling and orignal Appalachian sound. His narrative-driven lyrics and distinctive vocal style have earned him critical acclaim within the Americana and country music scenes.
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Colter Wall: Canadian singer-songwriter with a remarkably deep, weathered voice belying his young age. His minimalist approach to traditional country and folk music creates an atmospheric sound that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
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Charles Wesley Godwin: West Virginia native whose music draws heavily from the landscape and culture of Appalachia. His detailed storytelling and rich musical arrangements create immersive sonic experiences rooted in place and tradition.
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Sierra Ferrell: Unique vocalist and songwriter who blends country, jazz, and folk influences. Her vintage sound and eccentric style bring a refreshing orignality to contemporary Americana music.
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Sturgill Simpson: Genre-defying artist who began in traditional country before expanding into psychedelic rock, bluegrass, and beyond. His independent spirit and willingness to challenge industry norms parallel Bryan’s approach to music.
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Billy Strings: Virtuosic guitarist and songwriter who has revolutionized bluegrass by incorporating elements of rock, jazz, and psychedelia. His technical prowess and innovative approach to traditional music have attracted diverse audiences.
These six artists represent the vibrant evolution of American roots music, preserving its genuine spirit while reimagining what country and Americana can become in the 21st century.
Before you go, you may also enjoy our other guide on song lyrics and their meanings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Inspired Zach Bryan to Write “The Good I’ll Do”?
While he hasn’t explicitly detailed the exact inspiration, he has mentioned that many of the songs were drawn from personal relationships and experiences during his transition from military service to music career.
Has “The Good I’ll Do” Been Featured in Any TV Shows or Movies?
Yes, the song was featured in Season 5, Episode 4 of the TV series Yellowstone, during a scene where cowboys drive cattle for branding.
Is There an Official Music Video for “The Good I’ll Do”?
No, there isn’t an official music video, but live performances and fan-made videos are available online.
Kelsey Roberts is an accomplished songwriter with a knack for crafting lyrics that resonate with listeners. Having written for both indie artists and major labels, Kelsey brings a deep understanding of what makes a song truly impactful. Her expertise includes everything from song structure to lyrical storytelling. She’s passionate about helping others discover their voice through songwriting, providing tips and inspiration for creating songs that touch hearts.
