Introduction:
Drive (For Daddy Gene) is a poignant and emotionally charged country ballad by the acclaimed singer-songwriter, Alan Jackson. Released in 2002 as the title track of his album, the song is a heartfelt tribute to Jackson’s father, Eugene “Gene” Jackson.
Known for his traditional country sound and relatable lyrics, Alan Jackson has established himself as one of the genre’s most enduring stars. “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” exemplifies his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. The song delves into the cherished memories of a father-son bond, evoking feelings of nostalgia and loss.
Produced by Keith Stegall, a renowned figure in the country music industry, the track features a simple yet effective arrangement that allows Jackson’s vocals to take center stage. With its understated instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” resonated with listeners, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. The song climbed the country charts, solidifying Jackson’s status as a country music powerhouse and becoming a staple in his live performances.
Beyond its chart performance, “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” has touched the hearts of countless fans who have experienced similar losses. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family and the enduring impact of loved ones.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Drive (For Daddy Gene)”
It was painted red the stripe was white
It was 18 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
We put on a shine, put on a motor
Built out of love, and made for the water
Ran her for years, til’ the transom got rotten
A piece of my childhood will never be forgotenIt was just an old plywood boat
With 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 a old wood boat rides”
Just a little lake cross the Alabama line
But I was king of the ocean
When Daddy let me driveJust an old half ton short bed 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 who just received his medalIt was just an old hand me down ford
With 3 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
I would press that clutch
And I would keep it right
He would say a little slower son
Your doing just fine
Just a dirt road with trash on each side
But I was Mario Andretti
When Daddy let me driveI’m grown up now
3 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 sayIt 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 mountainWhen Daddy let me drive
Daddy let me drive
Oh he let me drive
It’s just an old plywood boat
With a 75 johnson
And electric choke