Read the full lyrics to Hayley Williams’ Good Ol’ Days. Complete song words from Ego Death At A Babbachelorette Party for fans.
The lyrics for “Good Ol’ Days” reflect on complicated nostalgia and secret relationships. The song opens with watery metaphors for desire, comparing feelings to a tidal wave that needs a surfboard to navigate. The chorus establishes the central paradox of missing difficult times, specifically referencing rage and handwritten letters as objects of longing. Williams name-checks Stevie Nicks in the second verse while denying any intention to create a musical hex against her subject.
hayley williams good ol’ days
The bridge repeats the phrase “secret love” multiple times, emphasizing the hidden nature of the relationship described throughout the track.
These words create a narrative about missing intensity even when it caused pain, making the material particularly suited for fans who appreciate Williams’ history of converting personal history into powerful singalong moments.
Produced by Daniel James
24 October 2025
1 songs, 3 minutes
℗ 2025 Post Atlantic
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Hayley Williams]
Desire, tidal wave, I can’t tame it
I’m not a water bender, can’t change it
I’m thinking maybe I need a surfboard (Surfboard)
Just gotta ride it out, get it all out
When you’re not mine, am I allowed?
When I was a secret, you kept me
Skinny divorcé, do you regret me?
I’m thinking maybe
Should we go back? Stay friends?
Keep all the benefits?
[Pre-Chorus: Hayley Williams]
We could sneak around like we’re on tour
Even if that’s all you want me for, for
You could call me Miss Paramour
[Chorus: Hayley Williams]
‘Cause I miss you like I miss the rage
Like I miss real ink on a page
Who knew, who knew my baby
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days?
‘Cause I miss you, miss kissing your face
Blissin’ out to music we made
Who knew, who knew my baby
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days?
[Verse 2: Hayley Williams]
Have to get it out of my system
Don’t like songs about you, don’t listen
If I’m being honest, I’m almost done
Not easy letting go of the one
I’m not Stevie, I won’t hex ya
But my voice may surely vex ya
For that, I’m sorry (Sorry)
I just want to love ya, but you won’t let me
[Chorus: Hayley Williams]
‘Cause I miss you like I miss the rage
Like I miss real ink on a page
Who knew, who knew my baby
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days? (I miss you, oh, I do)
‘Cause I miss you, miss kissing your face
Blissin’ out to music we made
Who knew, who knew my baby
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days?
[Interlude: Rusty Williams]
You are so tacky
I think that’s why I love you so much
I just had to call you first on my new phone
I love you, y’all have a blast, bye
[Bridge: Hayley Williams]
Secret love
Secret love
Secret love
Love, ah
What’s in a name? (Secret love)
What’s in a name? (Secret love)
What’s in a name? Mm (Secret love)
What’s in a name?
What’s in a name (Love, ah)
Fate’s got a funny way, baby
[Chorus: Hayley Williams]
‘Cause I miss you like I miss the rage (Secret love, secret love)
Like I miss real ink on a page (Secret love)
Who knew, who knew my baby (Love)
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days?
‘Cause I miss you, miss kissing your face (I miss you, oh, I do; Secret love, secret love)
Blissin’ out to music we made (Secret love)
Who knew, who knew my baby (Love)
Who knew the hard times were the good ol’ days?
[Outro]
Secret love
Secret love
Secret love
Love, ah
Secret love
Secret love
Secret love
Love
