The Guitar Song by Jamey Johnson tells the story of a neglected and forgotten guitar in a pawn shop. The guitar reminisces about its past, playing shows with famous country singer Merle Haggard in 1967 and performing in countless smoky bars, bringing joy and comfort to many. However, its last owner only saw it as a way to make a quick buck and sold it for $20, leaving it unused and hanging in the pawn shop. Despite its current state, the guitar still holds onto its dreams of being played in the spotlight once again and hearing crowds sing along to its tunes. It longs for someone to come to the pawn shop, pick it up, and play it back home where it belongs. The meaning behind The Guitar Song is about the resilience and determination of a musical instrument that has gone through hardships and neglect. It represents the spirit of music and the power it holds to bring people together and lift them up during both good and bad times.
