The song "Goodbye My Friend" is the fifth track on Dokken's eighth studio album, Long Way Home, which was released in 2002. Unlike some of the band's signature high-tempo Heavy Metal anthems, this particular track leans into the more melodic Hard Rock side of Dokken's sound, featuring an acoustic-driven composition that functions as a more reflective, mid-tempo song. Written solely by frontman Don Dokken, the lyrics revolve around the universal theme of farewell and separation, likely dealing with the bittersweet experience of parting ways with someone important, hoping they can still remain friends despite the end of a relationship or chapter in their lives. The lineup for the Long Way Home album, which contributes to the track's sound, included Don Dokken on lead vocals, rhythm and acoustic guitar, former Europe guitarist John Norum on lead guitar, Barry Sparks on bass, and classic Dokken member "Wild" Mick Brown on drums. The track showcases Don Dokken's softer, more emotional vocal style, backed by a solid arrangement where Norum's guitar work, while present, focuses more on providing texture and melodic breaks rather than aggressive shredding, aligning with the song's reflective mood.