About the song
“East Bound and Down” is a classic and unforgettable song performed by the legendary Jerry Reed. Released in 1977, this track is renowned for its rollicking energy and distinctive blend of country and Southern rock, making it a standout piece in Reed’s storied career.
Jerry Reed, known for his unique voice and dynamic guitar style, recorded “East Bound and Down” as part of the soundtrack for the hit film Smokey and the Bandit. The song became an iconic anthem of the movie, which starred Burt Reynolds and Sally Field and was a major box office success. Reed’s contribution to the soundtrack helped solidify his place in country music history.
The song was written by Jerry Reed himself, in collaboration with his frequent songwriting partner, Dick Feller. Reed’s knack for storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of his characters shine through in the lyrics. “East Bound and Down” tells the story of a trucker on a high-stakes run, combining humor and adventure with Reed’s signature flair.
Upon its release, “East Bound and Down” achieved impressive success on the charts. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and remained a beloved hit among fans. The song’s popularity extended beyond country music, with its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus earning it a lasting place in American pop culture.
Jerry Reed’s “East Bound and Down” continues to be celebrated for its energetic performance and engaging narrative. It remains a quintessential example of Reed’s ability to blend storytelling with infectious music, making it a timeless favorite for fans of both country and classic cinema.
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Lyrics
Snowman, how are your vocal cords?
My vocal cords are fine, I’m a little worried about Fred’s now
He been gnawing everything in the cab of this truck, barking and screaming
I think he’s turning into a stalk of bananas, come back
What’s your 20?
About 16 miles this side of Mississippi
Whoa, hold it, I just passed another Kojak with a Kodak
This place is crawling with bears, where the hell are you? Come back
I’m still trying to get rid of that Texas County Mountie
I don’t know what the hell he wants
You know what he wants, I mean, how would you like to be the dude that handcuffs a legend?
Listen, give me five minutes, we’re gonna put some moves on that mother, I’ll meet you at Old Miss
Well, you better hurry, or we can just kiss that money goodbye, you understand that?
I read you loud and clear, 10-4
You got the one Snowman, I’m east bound and down
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
Keep your foot hard on the pedal
Son, never mind them brakes
Let it all hang out ’cause we got a run to make
The boys are thirsty in Atlanta
And there’s beer in Texarkana
And we’ll bring it back, no matter what it takes
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
Ol’ Smokey’s got them ears on
He’s hot on your trail
And he ain’t gonna rest ’til you’re in jail
So you got to dodge ‘im and you got to duck ‘im
You got to keep that diesel truckin’
Just put that hammer down and give it hell
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run