About the Song

“This Old Guitar” is a deeply personal song written by John Denver, reflecting on the powerful connection he had with his 1910 Gibson “F-hole” acoustic guitar. The guitar, which was given to him by his grandmother when he was 12 years old, played a significant role in Denver’s musical journey. It became not only a cherished possession but also the instrument that helped him develop his love for music and songwriting.

Denver often spoke about this guitar in interviews, describing it as a constant companion through many stages of his life. It was especially meaningful to him because of the emotional and familial ties it held. The song itself is a tribute to both the guitar and the music it helped him create.

Backstory and Inspiration

John Denver was a shy child, and due to his father’s military career, he moved frequently, which often left him feeling isolated. In Tucson, Arizona, where he received the guitar from his grandmother, music became his solace. Playing this instrument allowed him to express himself, and over time, it became a vital part of his identity.

When Denver was 13, his music teacher encouraged him to bring the guitar to class, a gesture that helped him find acceptance among his peers. This moment marked a turning point in his social life and relationship with music.

Lyrics

This old guitar taught me to sing a love song
Showed me how to laugh and how to cry
It introduced me to some friends of mine and brightened up some days
And helped me make it through some lonely nights, oh
What a friend to have on a cold and lonely night
This old guitar gave me my lovely lady
It opened up her eyes and ears to me
It brought us close together, and I guess it broke her heart
It opened up the space for us to be
What a lovely place and a lovely space to be
This old guitar gave me my life my living
All the things you know I love to do
To serenade the stars that shine from a sunny mountainside
And most of all, to sing my songs for you
I love to sing my songs for you
Yes I do, you know
I love to sing my songs for you

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