Alan Jackson’s “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” is a poignant exploration of the enduring bond between a father and son. Released in 2002 as part of the album Drive, the song serves as a heartfelt tribute to Jackson’s late father, Eugene “Gene” Jackson.
Background
At its core, “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” is a nostalgic reflection on childhood memories. Jackson paints vivid pictures of shared experiences with his father, from tinkering with an old truck to navigating the waters of a small lake.
These seemingly ordinary moments are imbued with profound significance, as they represent the foundation of their relationship. The song captures the essence of a simpler time, when life’s joys were found in shared experiences rather than material possessions.
Jackson’s lyrics are characterized by their simplicity and authenticity. He avoids poetic flourishes in favor of straightforward language that speaks directly to the heart. This direct approach creates a sense of intimacy, as if the listener is being invited into a private conversation.
The song’s narrative unfolds gradually, allowing the listener to connect with the emotions on a deeply personal level.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
It’s painted red, the stripe was whiteIt was eighteen feet, from the bow to stern lightSecondhand, from a dealer in AtlantaI rode up with daddy, when he went there to get herPut on a shine, put on a motorBuilt out of love, made for the waterRan her for years, ’til the transom got rottenA piece of my childhood, will never be forgotenIt was, just an old plywood boatA ’75 Johnson with electric chokeA young boy two hands on the wheelI can’t replace the way it made me feelAnd I would turn her sharpAnd I would make it whineHe’d say, You can’t beat the way an old wood boat ridesJust a little lake across the Alabama lineBut I was king of the oceanWhen daddy let meDriveJust an old half-ton shortbed FordMy uncle bought new, in ’64Daddy got it right, ’cause the engine was smokingA couple of burnt valves, and he had it going
Harley