Introduction
History and Introduction: “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” by Alan Jackson
Released in January 2002 as the lead single from his album Drive, Alan Jackson’s song “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” is a deeply personal and emotional tribute to his late father, Joseph Eugene “Daddy Gene” Jackson, who passed away in January 2000. The track quickly resonated with audiences, not only for its heartfelt lyrics but also for its nostalgic storytelling and emotional resonance. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and also charted on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of Jackson’s most beloved hits.
Written solely by Alan Jackson, the song recounts cherished childhood memories of learning to drive with his father—first in an old boat and then in a beat-up pickup truck. These seemingly simple moments serve as powerful metaphors for family bonds, growing up, and the lasting legacy of a loving parent. The song’s chorus is especially touching, with Jackson reflecting on the importance of passing on these experiences to his own children, thereby continuing the generational cycle of love and learning.
The accompanying music video, directed by Steven Goldmann, enhances the song’s themes by featuring Jackson with his own daughters, adding another layer of emotional authenticity. “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” was praised by critics and fans alike for its sincerity and relatable storytelling, and it went on to win the 2003 CMA Award for Song of the Year.
With its blend of classic country instrumentation and a personal narrative, “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” stands as one of Alan Jackson’s most iconic and enduring songs. It’s a heartfelt homage not only to his father but to the quiet, meaningful moments that define family life and shape who we become.
Video
Lyrics
Was painted red, the stripe was white
It was eighteen feet from the bow to the stern light
Second hand from a dealer in Atlanta
I rode up with daddy when he went there to get her
Put on a shine, put on a motor
Built out of love and made for the water
Ran her for years, ’til the transom got rotten
A piece of my childhood it’ll never be forgotten
It was just an old plywood boat
With a ’75 Johnson with electric choke
A young boy, two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it make me feel
And I would turn her sharp
And I’d make it whine
He’d say, “You can’t beat the way an old wood boat rides”
Just a little lake ‘cross the Alabama line
But I was king of the ocean
When daddy let me drive
Just an old half ton, short bed Ford
My uncle bought new in ’64
And daddy got it right ’cause the engine was smoking
Couple of burned valves and he had it going
He’d let me drive her, we’d haul off a load
Down a dirt strip where we’d dump trash off of Thigpen Road
I’d sit up in the seat and stretch my feet out to the pedals
Smiling like a hero that just received his medal
It was just an old hand me down Ford
With three speed on the column and a dent in the door
A young boy, two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it made me feel
And I would press that clutch
And I’d keep it right
He’d say, “A little slower son, you’re doing just fine”
Just a dirt road with trash on each side
But I was Mario Andretti
When daddy let me drive
I’m grown up now, three daughters of my own
I let ’em drive my old Jeep ‘cross the pasture at our home
Maybe one day they’ll reach back in their file
And pull out that old memory
And think of me and smile, and say
It was just an old worn out Jeep
Rusty old floorboards, hot on my feet
A young girl, two hands on the wheel
I can’t replace the way it made me feel
And he’d say, “Turn it left and steer it right
Straighten up girl, now you’re doing just fine”
Just a little valley by the river where we’d ride
But I was high on a mountain
When daddy let me drive
When daddy let me drive
Oh, he let me drive
She’s just an old plywood boat
With a ’75 Johnson with electric choke
