About the song
“The Ride” by David Allan Coe is a captivating and evocative country song that has left a lasting impression on fans of the genre. Released in 1983 as part of Coe’s album “Castles in the Sand,” this song stands out for its unique narrative and haunting melody.
Written by J.B. Detterline Jr. and Gary Gentry, “The Ride” tells the story of a hitchhiker who is picked up by a mysterious driver in a long black Cadillac. As the journey unfolds, it becomes clear that the driver is none other than the ghost of Hank Williams, the legendary country singer. This supernatural encounter serves as a powerful metaphor for the trials and tribulations faced by aspiring musicians and the influence of those who came before them.
“The Ride” achieved considerable success upon its release, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s blend of storytelling and mystique, combined with Coe’s emotive delivery, struck a chord with listeners, cementing its place as one of his most beloved tracks.
David Allan Coe, known for his rugged individualism and contributions to the outlaw country movement, brings a sense of authenticity and depth to “The Ride.” His performance captures the eerie, reflective mood of the song, drawing listeners into the narrative and inviting them to reflect on the legacy of Hank Williams and the broader history of country music.
The album “Castles in the Sand” features a range of songs that showcase Coe’s versatility and songwriting prowess, but “The Ride” stands out as a highlight. Its success on the charts and enduring popularity among fans are testaments to its compelling storytelling and musical craftsmanship.
For older listeners who appreciate the rich history of country music and the legends who have shaped it, “The Ride” offers a poignant reminder of the genre’s roots and the timeless appeal of a well-told story. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of David Allan Coe or new to his music, “The Ride” is a song that resonates with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, making it a must-listen for anyone who loves classic country.
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Lyrics
Well, I was thumbin’ from Montgomery
I had my guitar on my back
When a stranger stopped beside me in an antique Cadillac
He was dressed like 1950
Half drunk and hollow-eyed
He said, “It’s a long walk to Nashville
Would you like a ride, son?”
And I sat down in the front seat, he turned on the radio
And them sad old songs comin’ out of them speakers
Was solid country gold
Then I noticed the stranger was ghost-white pale
When he asked me for a light
And I knew there was something strange about this ride
He said, “Drifter, can ya make folks cry when you play and sing?
Have you paid your dues, can you moan the blues?
Can you bend them guitar strings?”
He said, “Boy, can you make folks feel what you feel inside?
‘Cause if you’re big star bound let me warn ya, it’s a long, hard ride”
Then he cried just south of Nashville
And he turned that car around
He said, “This is where you get off, boy
‘Cause I’m goin’ back to Alabam'”
As I stepped out of that Cadillac
I said, “Mister, many thanks”
He said, “You don’t have to call me Mister, Mister
The whole world called me Hank”
He said, “Drifter, can ya make folks cry when you play and sing?
Have you paid your dues, can you moan the blues?
Can you bend them guitar strings?”
He said, “Boy, can you make folks feel what you feel inside?
‘Cause if you’re big star bound let me warn ya, it’s a long, hard ride”
He said, “Drifter, can ya make folks cry when you play and sing?
Have you paid your dues, can you moan the blues?
Can you bend them guitar strings?”
He said, “Boy, can you make folks feel what you feel inside?
‘Cause if you’re big star bound let me warn ya, it’s a long, hard ride”
If you’re big star bound let me warn ya, it’s a long, hard ride
You know you got a lot of competition out there
Now the sound, it ain’t like it was in the ’50s when I was here
And then you got Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson
You got Clarke and Billy Joe Shaver and David Allan Coe
And you even got my son