About the song
Bobby Bare’s rendition of “Detroit City” is a poignant reflection on the longing for home and the struggles of urban life. Originally written by Danny Dill and Mel Tillis, this classic country ballad found its place on Bobby Bare’s 1963 album titled “500 Miles Away from Home.”
“Detroit City” tells the story of a disillusioned individual who moves to the bustling city of Detroit in search of a better life, only to find himself yearning for the simplicity and comfort of his rural home. Bobby Bare’s heartfelt delivery and sincere portrayal of the protagonist’s inner conflict resonate deeply, evoking empathy and understanding from listeners.
Upon its release, “Detroit City” became a significant hit for Bobby Bare, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 16 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its success underscored Bobby Bare’s ability to connect with audiences through emotionally charged storytelling and authentic country sound.
The song’s themes of homesickness and nostalgia struck a chord with listeners during a period of social and economic change in America, making it a timeless piece of country music history. Bobby Bare’s rendition of “Detroit City” remains a testament to his vocal prowess and ability to convey raw emotion through music.
Over the years, “Detroit City” has been covered by various artists, but Bobby Bare’s version remains definitive, celebrated for its sincerity and enduring relevance. It continues to be cherished by fans of classic country music, embodying the genre’s ability to capture the human experience with honesty and depth.
“Detroit City” stands as a testament to Bobby Bare’s legacy as a storyteller and interpreter of songs that resonate beyond their time, reminding listeners of the universal longing for home and the complexities of chasing dreams in unfamiliar places.
Video
Lyrics
Last night I went to sleep in Detroit City
I dreamed about them cotton fields of home
I dreamed about my mother, dear old pappy, sister and brother
And I dreamed about the girl who’s been waitin’ for so long
I want to go home
I want to go home
Oh, how I want to go home
Home folks think I’m big in Detroit City
From the letters that I write they think I’m just fine, yes they do
But by day I make the cars and by night I make the bars
If only they could read between the lines
‘Cause you know I rode a freight train north to Detroit City
And after all these years I find I’ve just been wastin’ my time
You know what I’m gonna do?
I’m gonna take my foolish pride
Get it on a southbound freight and let it ride
I’m gonna go back to the loved ones
The ones I left waiting so far behind]
I want to go home, yeah
I want to go home
Oh, how I want to go home [Can’t you hear me?]
I want to go home
Whoa, baby I want to go home
Oh, how I want to go home [Somebody help me]
I want to go home, yeah
I want to go home, whoa oh
Oh, how I want to go home
Hmm, I want to go home