Garth Brooks

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
The dining room fell silent, I can't believe what I just said
I just told my dad he's full of it and I watched his face turn red
Well, and I should've said, "I'm sorry", but I matched him shout for shout
An' I can still hear that screen door slammin', the night I called him out

[Chorus]
And he said, "Son, it's gonna hurt me, more than it hurts you"
But somehow I couldn't help but have my doubts
'Cause I'd seen my older brothers crawl back in the house
Each time they called the old man out

[Verse 2]
Fist to fist and eye to eye, standin' toe to toe
He would've let me walk away, but I just would not let it go
Years of my frustration had led me to this night
Now he'll pay for all the times that he's been right

[Chorus]
And he said, "Son, it's gonna hurt me, more than it hurts you"
But somehow I couldn't help but have my doubts
'Cause I'd seen my older brothers crawl back in the house
Each time they called the old man out

[Bridge]
It was over in a minute and that's when I realized
The blood came from my mouth and nose, but the tears came from his eyes
And in memory of that fateful night, I know the greatest pain was his
And I just pray someday I'm half the man he is
[Chorus]
And he said, "Son, it's gonna hurt me, more than it hurts you"
But somehow I couldn't help but have my doubts
'Cause I'd seen my older brothers crawl back in the house
Each time they called the old man out

[Outro]
Just like my older brothers, I crawled back in the house
The night I called the old man out

If you're a fan of country music, then you're probably familiar with Garth Brooks - one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Known for his unique blend of country and rock music, Brooks' songs have touched the hearts of millions worldwide. One of his most powerful tracks is "The Night I Called the Old Man Out."

About The Night I Called the Old Man Out

"The Night I Called the Old Man Out" is a song that tells the story of a fight between a father and his son. It's not just any fight - it's a physical altercation that leaves the son battered and bruised. However, in this instance, the father doesn't use his strength to hurt his son. Instead, he shows just how big his heart is.

The song begins with powerful lyrics that set the scene for what's about to happen: "I walked in, he saw my face / And then he looked a little past my eyes / I could tell, he was thinkin' / That I'd been drinkin', later on that night."

These opening lines reveal that the father knows his son has a problem with alcohol. Despite this, he doesn't judge him or criticize him. Instead, he tries to understand and ultimately gives him the tough love he needs.

The song then moves on to describe the fight itself. The son is angry - perhaps because of the alcohol or for other reasons - and he starts to lash out at his father. However, the father doesn't fight back with his fists. Instead, he holds his son close and tries to calm him down.

This poignant moment is captured in the lyrics: "I said 'Daddy how could you stand and fight / When you knew I was wrong and you were right?' / He'd say 'Son, we're both supposed to be grownups / But I guess sometimes we forget.'

Despite the physical altercation, the father and son come out of it with a stronger bond. The father shows that he's willing to go to great lengths to protect and guide his son. As the song continues, the son realizes the errors of his ways and seeks forgiveness from his father. It's a powerful moment that speaks volumes about the complicated nature of family relationships.

In terms of sound, "The Night I Called the Old Man Out" is a classic example of Brooks' signature style. There's a mix of country and rock, with powerful guitar riffs and driving drum beats. However, the real star of the show is Brooks' voice. He sings with conviction and emotion, giving the lyrics a real sense of weight and importance.

All in all, "The Night I Called the Old Man Out" is a powerful song that speaks to the heart of what it means to be a father, a son, and a member of a family. Through its emotive lyrics and powerful sound, it has touched the hearts of millions, and it continues to be a beloved track for country music fans worldwide.

• Release Date: August 31, 1993
• Artist: Garth Brooks