“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Every good party needs its anthem, and in the world of country music, few songs have stirred as much boots-on-the-dance-floor excitement as T. G. Sheppard’s “Party Time.” The year was 1981, a time ripe with both political and musical shifts, and Sheppard’s hit managed to capture the essence of celebration amidst these changes, marking a defining moment in his career.

About The Composition

  • Title: Party Time
  • Composer: T. G. Sheppard
  • Premiere Date: 1981
  • Album/Opus/Collection: I Love ‘Em All
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Party Time” emerged during an era when country music was undergoing significant evolution, blending traditional elements with pop-infused sounds. Sheppard, already known for his smooth, crossover-friendly style, tapped into a universal desire for carefree moments with this track. Initially received with enthusiasm, the song climbed to the top of the Billboard Country charts, cementing its place in Sheppard’s repertoire as one of his most memorable hits.

Musical Style

The song is quintessentially country, characterized by its upbeat rhythm and traditional instrumentation that includes guitars, drums, and a hint of keyboard. Sheppard’s vocal delivery is both inviting and celebratory, perfectly complementing the festive theme of the lyrics. The simple yet catchy structure of the song makes it a staple in country music playlists, especially at gatherings.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Party Time” encapsulate the joy of letting loose and enjoying life’s simpler moments. Phrases like “It’s party time, feeling fine, got nothing but fun on my mind” suggest a narrative of escapism through music and celebration, a theme that resonates with many looking for a break from the mundane.

Performance History

Since its release, “Party Time” has been a favorite in concerts, especially in settings that call for a lively atmosphere. Its enduring popularity at live shows highlights its significance not just as a song, but as a cultural phenomenon in the country music scene.

Cultural Impact

“Party Time” has transcended its initial release period, becoming an emblem of celebration in country music. Its inclusion in various media and continued relevance at social gatherings speak to its broad appeal and impact beyond just musical boundaries.

Legacy

Decades later, “Party Time” remains a beloved classic, often played when the mood calls for something both nostalgic and exhilarating. Its ability to connect with multiple generations of country music fans attests to its timeless appeal.

Conclusion

“Party Time” is more than just a song; it’s a feeling, a moment captured in melody and words that continues to resonate. For those looking to experience the quintessence of T. G. Sheppard’s charm and the vibrant spirit of 1980s country music, this song is a must-listen.

Video

Lyrics

Oh-oh, it’s party time
Time to get you off my mind
Forget the life I left behind
And all those dreams that won’t come true

Oh-oh, it’s party time
It’s time for laughin’, pass the wine
It’s early and I’m feelin’ fine
I’ll soon be over you

Darlin’, ever since the day
You said it’s time to go our separate ways
I’ve been searchin’ for a way to repay
For doin’ you so wrong

Now it’s time to call the heart
You know it wasn’t all my fault
You cheated too, but you were never caught
Your friends lied all along

Oh-oh, it’s party time
Time to get you off my mind
It’s early and I’m feelin’ fine
I’ll soon be over you

It shouldn’t take us very long
Another sip or two and you’ll be gone
Another chorus of she done him wrong
And I’ll be over you

Oh-oh, it’s party time
It’s time to get you off my mind
It’s early and I’m feelin’ fine
I’ll soon be over you

It shouldn’t take us very long
Another sip or two and you’ll be gone
Another chorus of she done him wrong
And I’ll be over you

Oh-oh, it’s party time
Time to get you off my mind
Forget the life I left behind
And all those dreams that won’t come true

Oh-oh, it’s party time
Let’s have a laugh and pass the wine

You Missed

In Muskogee, Oklahoma, there’s a pawn and guitar repair shop sandwiched between a laundromat and a lawyer’s office. It’s called “Gus’s Strings & Stories.” Inside, the air is thick with the smell of pine, fretboard oil, and old tube amplifiers. Gus, the owner, is a quiet man with hands calloused from thousands of hours of soldering wires and adjusting frets. On the walls, instead of flashy guitars, are the broken ones. One with a snapped neck. One with a hole where its previous owner punched it. Next to each is a short, handwritten story of how it was “saved.” The shop’s rule is etched on a small brass plaque on the counter: “Lie to your guitar, it’ll lie right back.” One day, a young man came in, wanting to sell his father’s acoustic guitar. “I need the money,” he said, eyes fixed on the floor. Gus took the guitar. He didn’t check the brand. He checked the pick marks near the soundhole. He looked at the wear on the G fret. He gently plucked a string. Then he handed it back to the boy. “This guitar has played ‘Sing Me Back Home’ one too many times,” Gus said. “It doesn’t belong in a pawnshop. It belongs at a campfire. Go home, son.” The young man looked up, confused. “But I need…” “No,” Gus interrupted, pointing to the etching. “You don’t need the money. You need to play for your father. Don’t lie to the guitar. Merle wouldn’t.” The young man stood there for a moment, then clutched the guitar and walked out the door. Gus nodded, returning to his work.