"That Lucky Old Sun" is a song originally written by Beasley Smith and Haven Gillespie in 1949. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including the Jerry Garcia Band. The lyrics depict the struggles and hardships of everyday life, while also longing for a more carefree existence. The song begins by describing the protagonist's daily routine of working hard for a living. They put in laborious efforts, but the sun, representing a sense of luck or leisure, seemingly has nothing to do except roam freely in the heavens. The lyrics then touch upon the protagonist's personal relationships, mentioning the conflicts with their partner and the responsibilities and challenges of raising children. Despite their hard work and sacrifices, the sun continues its carefree journey, unburdened by the troubles of earthly existence. The chorus section expresses a plea to the Lord above, asking for relief from the hardships and a glimmer of hope. The protagonist longs for a silver lining, a cloud that brings respite and lifts them up to paradise, representing a state of peace and contentment. In the following verses, the protagonist yearns for a river that symbolizes a fresh start and the cleansing of troubles. They desire a life without worries, akin to the lucky old sun that seems to have no responsibilities. The song's overall meaning suggests a desire for relief from the burdens of everyday life, a longing for a carefree existence, and a sense of hope for a better future. It showcases the universal human need for escapism and a yearning for happiness and peace.
