Some songs don’t just tell a story—they pull you straight into it, making you feel every ounce of regret, nostalgia, and longing woven into the lyrics. “Fifteen Years Ago”, originally recorded by Conway Twitty, is one of those songs that lingers long after the last note fades.
This song is like a conversation with a ghost from the past—the kind that creeps up when you least expect it. The lyrics unfold from the perspective of a man who’s tried to move on, built a new life, and buried old feelings… or so he thought. But when an old friend stops by to mention her name, everything he thought was forgotten comes rushing back. It’s that gut-punch moment we all know too well—when a simple reminder cracks open old wounds, making the past feel painfully present.
Twitty delivers this story with an aching sincerity, his voice drenched in regret. You can almost see him, whiskey glass in hand, staring off into the distance as memories flood back. It’s not just about a lost love—it’s about time itself, about how certain feelings never truly die, no matter how much we try to convince ourselves otherwise.
What makes “Fifteen Years Ago” hit so deep is its raw honesty. It doesn’t sugarcoat heartache or pretend that time erases all wounds. Instead, it acknowledges that some loves leave permanent marks. And maybe, just maybe, there’s a part of us that doesn’t really want to let them go.
So, if you’ve ever found yourself reminiscing about the one that got away, this song will feel like an old friend—one that understands exactly what you’re feeling
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Lyrics
I saw a man today who said he talked to you not so long ago I think a month or two
As my mind raced back in time I prayed oh Lord don’t let it show
He thinks I forgot you fifteen years ago
Fifteen years ago and I still feel the same why did he have to mention your name
I’m as broken up inside as if it’s been a week or so
Makes a mighty strong love to keep a man thinking of
A girl he hasn’t seen since fifteen years ago
[ steel ]
I’ve got a lovely wife who thinks the world of me
Promised her my love through all eternity
I’ve tried hard to make her happy and so far she doesn’t know
I can’t shake this thing of fifteen years ago
Fifteen years ago and I still feel the same why did he have to mention your name
I’m as broken up inside as if it’s been a week or so
Takes a mighty long time to get a real love off your mind
I know I’ve tried since fifteen years ago