Introduction
“Five More Minutes” is a heartfelt country song by Scotty McCreery, released in 2017. This track holds a special place in McCreery’s discography, as it was inspired by the passing of his paternal grandfather in January 2015. Just two weeks after this loss, McCreery collaborated with songwriters Frank Rogers and Monty Criswell to pen the song, channeling his grief and cherished memories into its lyrics.
The song reflects on various poignant moments in life where one wishes for just a little more time—be it youthful experiences, first loves, or final farewells. McCreery’s personal connection to the song is evident, especially in the verse about his grandfather, which often evokes deep emotions during his performances.
McCreery first introduced “Five More Minutes” to the public during a performance at the Grand Ole Opry in June 2016. The emotional delivery resonated with the audience, resulting in a standing ovation and a viral video that garnered millions of views. Despite not being released as an official single at that time, the song’s raw emotion and relatable theme struck a chord with many.
In May 2017, McCreery independently released “Five More Minutes,” and it quickly climbed the charts, eventually becoming his first No. 1 hit on both the Billboard and Mediabase/Country Aircheck Country Airplay charts. The song also achieved RIAA Gold certification, marking a significant milestone in McCreery’s career.
The accompanying music video further amplifies the song’s emotional impact by featuring personal home videos from McCreery’s life, including moments with his grandfathers, childhood memories, and early glimpses of his relationship with his now-wife, Gabi. This visual narrative deepens the song’s message about cherishing time with loved ones.
Years after its release, “Five More Minutes” found renewed popularity on platforms like TikTok, where users created videos showcasing moments and people they wished they had more time with. This resurgence introduced the song to a new generation, highlighting its timeless and universal appeal.
“Five More Minutes” stands as a testament to McCreery’s songwriting prowess and ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Its themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of time resonate universally, making it a cherished piece in contemporary country music.