About the song
Alan Jackson’s “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” is a heartfelt and nostalgic tribute to his father, capturing the simple yet profound joys of childhood memories. Released in 2002 as part of his album *Drive*, the song quickly became a favorite among fans and critics alike for its touching lyrics and Jackson’s sincere delivery.
“Drive” was written by Alan Jackson himself, and it reflects his personal experiences and cherished moments spent with his father, Gene Jackson. The song resonates with many listeners due to its universal themes of family, love, and the timeless bond between a father and his child. The track reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, further cementing Jackson’s status as a leading figure in country music.
The lyrics of “Drive” paint vivid pictures of Jackson’s youth, recounting memories of driving a plywood boat on the family farm, and later, taking the wheel of his father’s old truck. These moments symbolize the lessons learned and the values instilled by his father, encapsulating the essence of growing up in a close-knit family. Jackson’s emotive vocals bring these memories to life, allowing listeners to feel the warmth and affection he holds for his father.
Musically, “Drive” is a beautifully crafted country song, featuring a gentle melody that complements its reflective lyrics. The use of acoustic guitars and subtle instrumentation provides a fitting backdrop to Jackson’s storytelling, creating an intimate and heartfelt atmosphere. This simplicity in the arrangement enhances the song’s emotional impact, making it a memorable and moving listening experience.
The music video for “Drive” adds another layer of sentimentality, featuring home video footage and scenes of Jackson spending time with his own children, thus bridging the generational gap and emphasizing the enduring nature of family traditions. This visual representation reinforces the song’s themes and makes it even more relatable for viewers who have similar cherished memories with their loved ones.
In summary, “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” is a poignant and touching tribute to the influence of a father, masterfully captured by Alan Jackson’s songwriting and performance. Its success on the charts and its lasting popularity speak to its universal appeal and the way it touches the hearts of listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Jackson or new to his music, “Drive” is sure to evoke fond memories and a sense of gratitude for the simple, yet profound moments that shape our lives.
Video
Lyrics
It’s painted red, the stripe was white
It was eighteen feet, from the bow to stern light
Secondhand, from a dealer in Atlanta
I rode up with daddy, when he went there to get her
Put on a shine, put on a motor
Built out of love, made for the water
Ran her for years, ’til the transom got rotten
A piece of my childhood, will never be forgoten
It was, just an old plywood boat
A ’75 Johnson with electric choke
A young boy two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it made me feel
And I would turn her sharp
And I would make it whine
He’d say, You can’t beat the way an old wood boat rides
Just a little lake across the Alabama line
But I was king of the ocean
When daddy let me
Drive
Just an old half-ton shortbed Ford
My uncle bought new, in ’64
Daddy got it right, ’cause the engine was smoking
A couple of burnt valves, and he had it going
He’d let me drive her when we haul off a load
Down a dirt strip where we’d dump trash off of Thigpen Road
I’d sit up in the seat and stretch my feet out to the pedels
Smiling like a hero that just received his medal
It was just an old hand-me-down Ford
With three-speed on the column and a dent in the door
A young boy, two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it made me feel and
And I would press that clutch
And I would, keep it right
He’d say, “a little slower son; you’re doing just fine”
Just a dirt road with trash on each side
But I was Mario Andretti
When daddy let me
Drive
I’m grown up now
Three daughters of my own
I let them drive my old jeep
Across the pasture at our home
Maybe one day they’ll reach back in their file
And pull out that old memory
And think of me and smile
And say
It was just an old worn out jeep
Rusty old floor boards
Hot on my feet
A young girl, two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it, made me feel
And he’d say turn it left
And steer it right
Straighten up girl now, you’re doing just fine
Just a little valley by the river where we’d ride
But I was high on a mountain
When daddy let me
Drive
Daddy let me drive
Oh he let me, drive
It’s just an old plywood boat
With a ’75 Johnson
With electric choke