“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something about songs that tell a story—it’s as if they invite you to walk alongside the characters, experiencing their joys, heartaches, and adventures. “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight” by The Oak Ridge Boys is one such song, taking listeners on a journey through the South with a sense of urgency and undeniable rhythm. This track is a quintessential slice of Americana, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt the call of the open road.
About The Composition
- Title: Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight
- Composer: Rodney Crowell and Donivan Cowart
- Premiere Date: 1979 (by The Oak Ridge Boys)
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Oak Ridge Boys Have Arrived
- Genre: Country
Background
“Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight” was originally written by Rodney Crowell and Donivan Cowart and first recorded by Emmylou Harris in 1978 before The Oak Ridge Boys made it a hit in 1979. The song captures the essence of Southern storytelling with its vivid narrative and lively tempo. It reflects the era’s fascination with tales of wanderers and outlaws, set against the backdrop of the American South. When The Oak Ridge Boys recorded the track, their rich harmonies and energetic delivery brought the song to life, making it one of their signature tunes.
Musical Style
The song is a prime example of the upbeat, harmony-rich sound that The Oak Ridge Boys are known for. It features a driving rhythm section, paired with catchy guitar riffs and the group’s signature vocal harmonies. The arrangement is straightforward but powerful, with each member’s voice contributing to the overall texture. The song’s structure is typical of country music, with verses leading into a memorable chorus that sticks with the listener long after the song has ended. The interplay between the instruments and the vocals creates a sense of urgency, perfectly complementing the song’s narrative.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight” tell a compelling story of a young man running from trouble, urged on by his mother’s warnings and his own need for freedom. The story is set in motion from the first line, “Mary took to runnin’ with a travelin’ man,” drawing listeners into a tale of escape and the dangers that lie ahead. The themes of adventure, risk, and the pursuit of something greater are woven throughout the song, making it a classic example of narrative-driven songwriting in country music.
Performance History
After its release, “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight” became a staple in The Oak Ridge Boys’ live performances. The song was a chart success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 1980. Over the years, it has remained a fan favorite, often included in the group’s setlists and featured in their greatest hits collections. Its energetic performance and sing-along quality make it a highlight at concerts, demonstrating the song’s enduring appeal.
Cultural Impact
The song has become part of the fabric of American country music, representing the storytelling tradition that is so central to the genre. It has been covered by various artists and remains a popular choice on country radio stations. The Oak Ridge Boys’ version of the song is often associated with the late 1970s and early 1980s era of country music, a time when the genre was experiencing significant crossover success. The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, as it continues to be celebrated by new generations of country music fans.
Legacy
“Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight” is more than just a song; it’s a slice of American culture. It captures the restless spirit of the road and the complexities of life in the South. The Oak Ridge Boys’ rendition of the song has cemented its place in country music history, ensuring its relevance for years to come. The song’s narrative, combined with its catchy melody and harmonies, has left a lasting impact on the genre and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” it’s easy to see why the song has remained a favorite among country music fans. Its storytelling, combined with The Oak Ridge Boys’ powerful harmonies, makes it a timeless piece of Americana. If you haven’t listened to it in a while, or if you’re new to the song, I highly recommend seeking out a live performance—there’s something about the energy of the crowd and the connection between the band and their fans that brings the story to life in a way that recordings simply can’t capture.
Video
Lyrics
Mary took to running with a travelin’ man
Left her momma crying with her head in her hands
Such a sad case, so broken hearted
She say, momma, I got to go, gotta get outta here
I gotta get out of town, I’m tired of hanging around
I gotta roll on between the ditches
It’s just an ordinary story ’bout the way things go
‘Round and around nobody knows but the highway
Goes on forever, that ol’ highway rolls on forever.
Lord, she never would’ve done it if she hadn’t got drunk
If she hadn’t started running with a travelin’ man
If she hadn’t started taking those crazy chances
She say, daughter, let me tell you ’bout the travelin’ kind
Everywhere he’s goin’ such a very short time
He’ll be long gone before you know it
He’ll be long gone before you know it.
She say, never have I known it when it felt so good
Never have I knew it when I knew I could
Never have I done it when it looked so right
Leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight.
This is down in the swampland, anything goes
It’s alligator bait and the bars don’t close
It’s the real thing down in Louisiana
Did you ever see a Cajun when he really got mad
When he really got trouble like a daughter gone bad
It gets real hot down in Louisiana
The stranger better move it or he’s gonna get killed
He’s gonna have to get it or a shotgun will
It ain’t no time for lengthy speeches
There ain’t no time for lengthy speeches.
She say, never have I known it when it felt so good
Never have I knew it when I knew I could
Never have I done it when it looked so right
Leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight
It’s just an ordinary story