“Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” is one of those timeless tunes that feels like a story passed down through generations, each listen revealing a bit more of its charm and depth. Originally penned by the legendary songwriting duo Rodney Crowell and Donivan Cowart, and made famous by the Oak Ridge Boys, this song is a vivid narrative set to an infectious, toe-tapping beat.
The beauty of “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” lies in its storytelling. It’s a tale of a young girl caught up in the whirlwind of love, adventure, and a touch of recklessness. The lyrics paint a picture of a Southern escape, where the protagonist is swept away by the allure of something—or someone—promising more than the confines of her small-town life. There’s an air of urgency and excitement, as if the broad daylight itself is both a witness and a conspirator in her flight.
What makes this song so special is its blend of upbeat tempo and poignant storytelling. The melody is lively and spirited, reflecting the thrill of the unknown and the rush of leaving everything behind. Yet, the narrative is tinged with a bittersweet undertone, reminding listeners of the complexities of such a bold move.
When the Oak Ridge Boys recorded “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight,” they brought their signature harmonies and a touch of country flair that elevated the song to new heights. Their rendition captures the essence of a journey—a mix of anticipation, hope, and a little bit of rebellion. It’s a reminder of the universal desire to seek out new horizons, no matter the risks involved.
Listening to this song, you can’t help but be transported to a sun-drenched Louisiana morning, feeling the heat on your skin and the pull of the open road. It’s a celebration of freedom and the human spirit’s enduring quest for something more. Whether you’re a fan of classic country or just love a good story set to music, “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” is a song that resonates on a deeply personal level
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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