I've Been Down That Road Before

Hank Williams

About I've Been Down That Road Before

"I've Been Down That Road Before" is a talking blues song by Hank Williams. It was released by MGM Records under the name "Luke the Drifter", which was a pseudonym for Hank's recitations. It was another dose of the sage advice that Luke the Drifter seemed endlessly capable of dispensing - and Hank Williams seemed just as capable of ignoring. Biographer Colin Escott calls it "perhaps the most directly biographical song he ever wrote, and leaves us guessing at the incidents that inspired it. " He recorded it in Nashville on June 1, 1951 with Fred Rose producing and backing by Jerry Rivers (fiddle), Don Helms (steel guitar), Sammy Pruett (electric guitar), Jack Shook (rhythm guitar), Ernire Newton or "Cedric Rainwater", aka Howard Watts (bass), and possibly Owen Bradley (organ). 


Year:
2002
2:58
33 

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Now friends if you'll just listen to me
You'll get some good hard earned advice
I don't aim to meddle in your business
Just trying to save ya an awful price

You see these teeth that I ain't got
And these knots on my bald head
I'll guaranty you boys I didn't get um'
There a lying home in bed

Now take the smart-aleck in any town
Of him folks want no part
He acts like his head was only
Made to hold his ears apart

Now he might not like what
I'm bout to say and my words
Might make him sore
But I'm just trying to be helpful
Cause I been down that road before

To bully folks and play mean tricks
Was once my pride and joy
Till one day I was toted home
And mama didn't know her little boy

My head was swelled up so doggone big
I couldn't get it through my front door
Now I ain't talking just ta hear myself
I been down that road before

A little fella about my size
Got tired of being pushed about
So he went to work and when he got through
He'd knocked everyone of my teeth out

One time to many I rubbed him wrong
And he even'd up the score
Now that's what happens when you
Get too big for your britches
I been down that road before

Now when you get to thinking your really smart
There's somebody smarter then you
And no matter how much you boast and brag
You can still learn a thing or two

Go get you some treatments just like I've had
And you wont hanker for more
I've really learned the meaning of living and loving
Cause I've been down that road before

Now the man that walks this rocky road
Usually gets just what he deserves

But he's just a helpless servant to
A master that he servers
Now I've learned to slow my temper down
And not to pick no scraps no more

Boys its a lot easier on the head and the eyes
Cause I've been down that road before.

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Hank Williams

Hank Williams (/hæŋk wɪljəmz /; September 17, 1923 – January 1, 1953), born Hiram King Williams, was an American singer-songwriter and musician regarded as one of the most important country music artists of all time. Williams recorded 35 singles (five released posthumously) that would place in the Top 10 of the Billboard Country & Western Best Sellers chart, including 11 that ranked number one. more »

9 fans

Written by: Hank Williams Sr.

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Genre Classification
"I've Been Down That Road Before" is a classic country song, showcasing Hank Williams' versatility in blending various elements of blues, folk, and honky-tonk.
Song Release
The song was released in 1943 as a part of one of Hank's early sessions at MGM studios, marking his swift rise in country music.
Lyrics Contribution
This song is lyrically profound, bringing together Hank Williams' experiences from his transient, harsh childhood. This autobiographical reflection gives the track its deep and gritty realism.
Vocal Performance
Hank's heartfelt and soulful vocal performance on "I've Been Down That Road Before" showcases his unique ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
Contemporary Impact
Over the years, the song has become a cornerstone of classic country music, influencing several artists including Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan.
Commercial Success
Despite being one of his less commercially recognized songs, "I've Been Down That Road Before" enjoys a cult following among Hank Williams' fans and classic country music admirers.
Writing Style
Hank Williams is known for his distinct songwriting style, which is reflected in this song. He often wrote about love, heartbreak, and hardship that he experienced in his life.
Live Performances
Rare live performances of "I've Been Down That Road Before" have been well received by audiences for their emotive value and authenticity.
Cover Versions
Many country artists have covered the song in recognition of its raw depth and Hank’s influence, extending the song’s reach beyond its original release.
Legacy
Even after Hank Williams' tragic death at a young age, "I've Been Down That Road Before" is often cited as a testament to his enduring contribution to country music.

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