About the song
Buckle up and crank up the volume, because in 1977, Jerry Reed’s “East Bound and Down” roared onto the scene, becoming an instant anthem for anyone who’s ever dreamt of chasing the horizon. Released as the lead single for the film Smokey and the Bandit, the song propelled Reed, a seasoned songwriter and performer, into the mainstream. “East Bound and Down” transcended its cinematic origins to become a timeless trucker’s ballad, celebrating the freedom of the open road and the camaraderie of the long-haul journey.
The composer credit for “East Bound and Down” is shared by Jerry Reed himself and Deena Kaye Rose. The song embodies the collaborative spirit of the era, with Reed’s signature smooth vocals and playful guitar work perfectly complementing the driving rhythm section. The producer, Sonny Burke, a veteran of the Nashville scene known for his work with artists like Elvis Presley and Waylon Jennings, ensured the track had a polished and radio-friendly sound, while still retaining a touch of honky-tonk charm.
“East Bound and Down” falls squarely within the realm of country music, particularly the subgenre of outlaw country. Popularized in the 1970s, outlaw country celebrated themes of rebellion, individualism, and the working class. The song’s lyrics, delivered with a wink and a grin by Reed, paint a vivid picture of a trucker defying authority, racing across state lines with a load of illegal beer. The iconic opening line, “Well you better hurry, we’re just gettin’ that money,” sets the tone for a carefree and rebellious journey.
“East Bound and Down” achieved remarkable commercial success. The song reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and spent a significant 20 weeks on the chart altogether. It became a signature tune for both Jerry Reed and the film Smokey and the Bandit, further solidifying its cultural impact.
Beyond its chart success, “East Bound and Down” resonated with audiences for its infectious energy, relatable themes of freedom, and the romanticized image of the open road. The song captured the spirit of adventure and the camaraderie often associated with the trucking industry. Reed’s playful delivery and the song’s catchy melody made it an instant earworm, ensuring its enduring popularity.
Furthermore, “East Bound and Down” has transcended its original context to become a cultural touchstone. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular memory. The song continues to be a favorite at sporting events and truck rallies, reminding listeners of the thrill of the open road and the spirit of American individualism.
By delving into the musical composition, historical context, and cultural impact of “East Bound and Down” (Audio), we gain a deeper appreciation for its role in shaping the landscape of outlaw country music. The song remains a timeless anthem, celebrating freedom, rebellion, and the enduring allure of the American highway, forever linked to the iconic image of Jerry Reed, confidently steering his way into pop culture history.
Video
Lyrics
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
Keep your foot hard on the pedal, son never mind them brakes
Let it all hang out, ’cause we got a run to make
The boys are thirsty in Atlanta and there’s beer in Texarkana
And we’ll bring it back no matter what it takes
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run
Old Smokey’s got them ears on, he’s hot on your trail
And he ain’t gonna rest ’til you’re in jail
So you gotta dodge him, you’ve gotta duck him
You gotta keep that diesel truckin’
Just put that hammer down and give it hell
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, we gonna do what they say can’t be done
We’ve got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I’m east bound, just watch ol’ Bandit run