Rodney Atkins

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Sit in that six-lane backed up traffic
Horns are honking, I've about had it
I'm looking for an exit sign
Gotta get out of here, get it all off my mind
And like a memory from your grandpa's attic
A song comes slippin' through the radio static
Changing my mood
A little George Strait 1982

[Chorus]
And it makes me wanna take a back road
Makes me wanna take the long way home
Put a little gravel in my travel
Unwind, unravel all night long
Makes me wanna grab my honey
Tear down some two-lane country
Who knows
Get lost and get right with my soul
Makes me wanna take
Makes me wanna take a back road

[Verse 2]
I've been cooped up, tied down, 'bout forgotten
What a field looks like, full of corn and cotton
If I'm gonna hit a traffic jam
Well it better be a tractor man
So sick and tired of this interstate system
I need a curve and wind-a-twistin'
Dusty path to nowhere
With the wind blowing through my baby's hair
[Chorus]
Yeah, makes me wanna take a back road
Makes me wanna take the long way home
Put a little gravel in my travel
Unwind, unravel all night long
Makes me wanna grab my honey
Tear down some two-lane country
Who knows
Get lost and get right with my soul
Makes me wanna take
Makes me wanna take a back road
Some old back road

[Bridge]
Maybe it's the feeling or maybe it's the freedom
Maybe it's that shady spot
Where we park the truck when the things get hot
Where we park the truck when the things get hot

[Chorus]
And it makes me wanna take a back road
Makes me wanna take the long way home
Put a little gravel in my travel
Unwind, unravel all night long
Makes me wanna grab you honey
Tear down some two-lane country
Who knows
Get lost and get right with my soul
Makes me wanna take
Makes me wanna take a back road
Some old back road, get right with my soul
Now all I gotta do is take some old back road
(Some old back road) to the shady spot where things get hot
(Some old back road) way down, way down
Way down some old back road

Are you in the mood for a musical journey back to simpler times? Rodney Atkins' hit song "Take a Back Road" is just the ticket. This catchy tune captures the essence of embracing life's little joys and finding solace in the comfort of country roads. With its lively rhythm and relatable lyrics, "Take a Back Road" has become a beloved anthem for anyone seeking an escape from the fast-paced modern world.

About Take a Back Road

"Take a Back Road" was crafted by songwriter Rhett Akins, who was inspired by a friend's remark about listening to legendary artist Hank Williams Jr. and feeling the desire to hit the dirt road. Intrigued by this idea, Akins collaborated with his friend Luke Laird, incorporating it into a drum loop Laird had created. Together, they transformed the sentiment into a compelling song that resonates with people from all walks of life.

The song's title holds significance beyond a simple direction to a less-traveled route; it symbolizes a mindset of veering away from the mainstream and embracing the road less taken. In our fast-paced society, where conformity often reigns supreme, "Take a Back Road" encourages listeners to break free from the mundane and find their own path.

Rodney Atkins delivers the song with his distinctive country twang and heartfelt emotion, infusing each word with authenticity. Atkins is known for his ability to connect with his audience, and "Take a Back Road" is a testament to his talent for translating personal experiences into relatable songs.

The song's melody strikes a perfect balance between lively and laid-back, capturing the essence of a carefree road trip. Its catchy chorus and foot-tapping beats make it an instant crowd-pleaser at live performances, prompting audiences to sing along and immerse themselves in the infectious energy of the music.

Lyrically, "Take a Back Road" paints vivid images of scenic drives, open fields, and the serenity of nature. The song is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures in life can be found just by exploring what lies beyond our usual routes. It encourages listeners to embrace spontaneity and venture off the beaten path, promising hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences along the way.

The song's success speaks to its universal appeal. Upon its release, "Take a Back Road" quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on Billboard's Hot Country Songs. This achievement not only solidified Rodney Atkins' status as a country music sensation but also showcased the song's ability to strike a chord with listeners of various backgrounds.

One of the reasons behind "Take a Back Road's" popularity is its relatability. The sentiment of yearning for simplicity and a slower pace resonates with people navigating the complexities of modern life. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, the song offers a much-needed escape, whisking listeners away on a musical journey.

It's not just the lyrics and melody that captivate audiences; the song's production is top-notch. The seamless integration of country elements with contemporary sounds gives "Take a Back Road" a fresh and vibrant appeal. This fusion of classic and modern influences ensures that the song stands the test of time, appealing to both traditional country fans and those drawn to a more contemporary sound.

As Rodney Atkins croons about taking the scenic route and letting go of worries, he invites us to reflect on our own lives. "Take a Back Road" serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, cherish the present moment, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. It encourages us to seek solace in simpler things and embrace the freedom of the open road.

So, next time you find yourself yearning for a break from the mundane or seeking a sense of adventure, just remember Rodney Atkins' advice – take a back road. Let the melodies and lyrics of this timeless song guide you as you embark on a journey to discover new horizons and find joy in life's simplest pleasures.

• Release Date: April 25, 2011
• Artist: Rodney Atkins