Lyrics of
Goodbye Earl

Goodbye Earl, written by Dennis Linde, is known for its tale of domestic abuse and revenge. The song was recorded by The Chicks (formerly known as The Dixie Chicks) and sparked controversy due to its theme of vigilante justice. It tells the story of Wanda, who endures abuse from her husband Earl. After manifold cycles of abuse, her friends Mary Anne and Wanda decide Earl had to die to end the cycle of abuse. The song touches upon themes of friend ... ship, justice, and liberation within the context of domestic violence. See more [+]

Mary, Anne and Wanda were the best of friends
All through their high school days
Both members of the 4H Club
Both active in the FFA
After graduation Mary Anne went out
lookin' for a bright new world
Wanda looked all around this town
And all she found was Earl

Well, it wasn't two weeks
After she got married that
Wanda started gettin' abused
She put on dark glasses and long sleeved blouses
And make up to cover a bruise
Well, she finally got the nerve to file for divorce
She let the law take it from there
But Earl walked right through that restraining order
And put her in intensive care

Right away Mary Anne flew in from Atlanta
On a red eye midnight flight
She held Wanda's hand as they
Worked out a plan
And it didn't take 'em long to decide

That Earl had to die
Goodbye Earl
Those black-eyed peas
They tasted all right to me Earl
You're feelin' weak
Why don't you lay down
And sleep Earl
Ain't it dark
Wrapped up in that tarp Earl

The cops came by to bring Earl in
They searched the house
High and low
Then they tipped their hats
And said "thank you ladies, if you hear from him let us know"
Well, the weeks went by and
Spring turned to Summer
And Summer faded into Fall
And it turns out he was a missing person
Who nobody missed at all

So the girls bought some land
And a roadside stand
Out on Highway 109
They sell Tennessee ham
And strawberry jam
And they don't
Lose any sleep at night 'cause

Earl had to die
Goodbye Earl
We need a break
Let's go out to the lake Earl
We'll pack a lunch
And stuff you in the trunk Earl
Well, is that all right
Good, let's go for a ride
Earl Hey