The lyrics of "Cheap Whiskey" tell the story of a man who is haunted by his past mistakes and the loss of his love due to his alcohol addiction. The man is filled with regret and longing for his former partner, as he sits alone in his chair holding a tear-stained photograph and reflecting on his lost yesterdays.

Meaning of "Cheap Whiskey" by Martina McBride

"Cheap Whiskey" delves into themes of regret, addiction, lost love, and the consequences of one's actions. The man in the song is consumed by guilt and sorrow over the choices he made that led to the end of his relationship. The imagery of the smell of cheap whiskey and the sound of goodbye is powerful, representing the lasting impact of his addiction on his life. The lyrics highlight the destructive nature of alcoholism, illustrating how it can drive loved ones away and leave a person with only memories of what could have been. The man's realization of the weight of his decisions and the pain of his loss serve as a cautionary tale about the devastating effects of addiction on relationships and personal well-being.