About The Song
Background
“Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” is a song by the American country music band Alabama. It was released in January 1984 as the lead single from their album “Roll On.” The song was written by Dave Loggins and has become one of Alabama’s signature songs, known for its poignant storytelling and emotional resonance. “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, marking its significant impact on country music during the 1980s.
Musical Style
Musically, “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” is a classic example of 1980s country rock, a genre that Alabama helped popularize during their heyday. The song features a driving rhythm characterized by steady percussion and prominent electric guitar riffs. The band’s harmonies, a hallmark of their sound, add depth and richness to the song’s arrangement. The instrumental breaks showcase skilled musicianship, particularly in the guitar solos that punctuate the narrative structure of the song. Alabama’s vocal delivery is emotive and evocative, capturing the struggles and triumphs of the characters in the song. The production, overseen by Harold Shedd, strikes a balance between commercial appeal and the band’s country roots, making “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” both accessible and authentic to fans of the genre.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” tell the story of a truck driver who is constantly on the road, away from his family, and facing the challenges of life on the highway. The song opens with the poignant lines: “Roll on highway, roll on along, roll on daddy till you get back home.”
These lyrics set the tone for the narrative, emphasizing the loneliness and perseverance of the protagonist as he navigates the demands of his job. The chorus, delivered with heartfelt sincerity by lead vocalist Randy Owen, reinforces the theme of endurance and commitment: “Roll on highway, roll on along, roll on daddy till you get back home.” Throughout the song, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sacrifices made by truck drivers, highlighting their dedication to providing for their families despite the hardships of being away from home for extended periods.
Cultural Impact
“Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” had a significant cultural impact, resonating with both country music fans and the broader American public. The song’s portrayal of the trucking lifestyle struck a chord with listeners who admired the resilience and determination of those who work in the industry. Its relatable themes of family, sacrifice, and perseverance contributed to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity. The song’s success on the charts solidified Alabama’s status as one of the leading country bands of the 1980s. It became a staple of their live performances and remains a fan favorite to this day. “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” also inspired a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time when country music often reflected everyday struggles and triumphs. In addition to its impact on country music, “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” influenced popular culture by serving as a tribute to the hardworking men and women of the trucking industry. It contributed to a broader appreciation for the contributions of truck drivers to the economy and society as a whole.
Conclusion
“Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” stands as a testament to Alabama’s ability to blend compelling storytelling with memorable musical arrangements. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes and the band’s talent for connecting with audiences on an emotional level. Through its vivid lyrics and powerful instrumentation, “Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)” continues to resonate with listeners, reaffirming its place as a classic in the canon of country music. Alabama’s legacy as pioneers of the country rock genre is further solidified by the lasting impact of this iconic song.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
You got it
Roll on highway, roll on along
Roll on, Daddy, “til you get back home
Roll on family, roll on crew
Roll on, Mama, like I asked you to do
And roll on, eighteen-wheeler, roll on
Well, it’s Monday morning
He’s kissin’ Mama goodbye
He’s up and gone with the sun
Daddy drives an eighteen-wheeler
And he’s off on a Midwest run (you got it)
And three sad faces gather ’round Mama
They ask her when Daddy’s comin’ home
Daddy drives an eighteen-wheeler
And they sure miss him when he’s gone (yeah, they do)
Ah, but he calls them every night
And he tells them that he loves them
He taught ’em this song to sing
Roll on highway, roll on along
Roll on, Daddy, ’til you get back home
Roll on family, roll on crew
Roll on, Mama, like I asked you to do
And roll on, eighteen-wheeler, roll on (roll on)
Well, it’s Wednesday evening
Mama’s waitin’ by the phone
It rings, but it’s not his voice
Seems the highway patrol has found a jackknifed rig
In a snow bank in Illinois (that’s right)
But the driver was missin’
And the search had been abandoned
For the weather had everything stalled
And they had checked all the houses and the local motels
When they had some more news they’d call (that’s right)
And she told them when they found him to tell him
That she loved him
And she hung up the phone singin’
Roll on highway, roll on along
Roll on, Daddy, ’til you get back home
Roll on family, roll on crew
Roll on, Mama, like I asked you to do
And roll on, eighteen-wheeler, roll on
Mama and the children will be waiting up all night long
Thinkin’ nothing but the words just comin’
With the ringin’ of the telephone
Oh, but the Man Upstairs was listening
When Mama asked Him to bring Daddy home
And when the call came in
It was Daddy on the other end
Askin’ her if she had been singin’ the song, singin’
Roll on highway, roll on along
Roll on, Daddy, ’til you get back home
Roll on family, roll on crew
Roll on, Mama, like I asked you to do
And roll on eighteen-wheeler
Roll on highway, roll on along
Roll on, Daddy, ’til you get back home
Roll on family, roll on crew
Roll on, Mama, like I asked you to do
And roll on, eighteen-wheeler, roll on (roll on)
Eighteen-wheeler
Eighteen-wheeler
Eighteen-wheeler
Eighteen-wheeler
Roll on
