Introduction
“Please Remember Me” is a poignant song that has traversed the country music landscape through various renditions, each leaving an indelible mark on its legacy. Co-written by esteemed songwriters Rodney Crowell and Will Jennings, the song was first introduced to audiences by Crowell himself in 1995. Featured on his album “Jewel of the South,” Crowell’s version captured the heartfelt essence of bidding farewell and the longing to be remembered, though it achieved modest success, peaking at number 69 on the Billboard country chart.
The song’s profound narrative found a broader audience when country superstar Tim McGraw covered it in 1999 for his album “A Place in the Sun.” McGraw’s rendition soared to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, maintaining the number one position for five consecutive weeks. This version also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking it as one of McGraw’s most successful singles. The accompanying music video, directed by Randee St. Nicholas, further amplified the song’s emotional depth by intertwining reflective imagery with McGraw’s evocative performance. \
In 2012, the song experienced a revival through the voice of Scotty McCreery, the winner of “American Idol” Season 10. McCreery was selected to record “Please Remember Me” as the farewell song for the show’s 11th season, played during the emotional exit montages of eliminated contestants. Expressing his enthusiasm about the opportunity, McCreery stated, “I was ecstatic and I’m glad to get to be on there. It’s cool to still be connected to the show every week.” He also reached out to Tim McGraw, who responded positively, saying, “Oh, man. That’s really cool. I’m sure you nailed it.”
McCreery’s rendition honored the song’s rich history while introducing it to a new generation of viewers and listeners. Reflecting on the song’s role in the competition, he noted, “Every week, when the song would play and we’d have to watch the goodbye video, it was always a tough time. I never had to experience it, but I always felt it.” His version was made available on iTunes, allowing fans to connect with his heartfelt interpretation beyond the television screen.
Through these successive renditions by Rodney Crowell, Tim McGraw, and Scotty McCreery, “Please Remember Me” has solidified its place as a timeless ballad in country music, resonating with themes of farewell, remembrance, and enduring affection.
Video
Lyrics
When all our tears have reached the sea
Part of you will live in me
Way down deep inside my heart
The days keep coming without fail
A new wind is gonna find your sail
That’s where your journey starts
You’ll find better love
Strong as it ever was
Deep as the river runs
Warm as the morning sun
Please remember me
Just like the waves down by the shore
We’re gonna keep on coming back for more
‘Cause we don’t ever wanna stop
Out in this brave new world you seek
Oh the valleys and the peaks
And I can see you on the top
You’ll find better love
Strong as it ever was
Deep as the river runs
Warm as the morning sun
Please remember me
Remember me when you’re out walkin’
When the snow falls high outside your door
Late at night when you’re not sleepin’
And moonlight falls across your floor
When I can’t hurt you anymore
You’ll find better love
Strong as it ever was
Deep as the river runs
Warm as the morning sun
Please remember me
Please remember me