Country Music

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Country Music

Blake Shelton – Ol’ Red

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Introduction

“Ol’ Red” is a captivating narrative set to music, showcasing the ingenious plot of a man using his wits to escape from a southern prison farm. The song’s lore is deepened by its rich storytelling tradition in country music, involving a prisoner, a loyal but unsuspecting dog named Ol’ Red, and a clever escape ignited by love.

About The Composition

  • Title: Ol’ Red
  • Composer: James “Bo” Bohon, Don Goodman, Mark Sherrill
  • Premiere Date: Initially recorded by George Jones in 1990
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Featured on George Jones’s album “You Oughta Be Here with Me” and later covered by Blake Shelton on his self-titled 2001 album
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Ol’ Red” was not just a song but a portrayal of clever human psychology and the power of love. It became well-known through Blake Shelton’s rendition, which added a personal touch and brought a deeper narrative feel to the music. Shelton’s version peaked at number 14 on the US Hot Country Songs chart and is certified 2× Platinum in the United States.

Musical Style

This song combines traditional country elements with a storytelling approach that captures listeners’ imaginations. Its simple yet effective instrumentation supports the narrative, letting the lyrics drive the emotional weight and the unfolding drama of the story.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Ol’ Red” are crafted to tell a story of escape and clever manipulation. The protagonist, serving time in jail, forms a plan involving the titular dog, Ol’ Red, using the animal’s predictable behavior against the guards to facilitate an escape. Key themes include betrayal, strategy, and the unexpected twists of fate, encapsulated by the line “Love got me in here and love got me out.”

Performance History While originally recorded by George Jones, it was Blake Shelton’s version that brought “Ol’ Red” widespread acclaim, making it a staple in his performances and a favorite among fans of narrative country songs.

Cultural Impact

The song has left a significant mark on country music, often cited for its vivid storytelling and the emotional connection it fosters with listeners. Its themes of freedom and ingenuity resonate widely, making it a memorable example of country music’s narrative power.

Legacy

“Ol’ Red” continues to be celebrated in country music circles for its narrative depth and musicality. It has influenced other artists and songs, becoming more than just a track—it’s a piece of cultural storytelling that continues to inspire and entertain.

Conclusion

“Ol’ Red” is a testament to the storytelling tradition in country music, beautifully weaving themes of love, freedom, and strategic cunning into a song that resonates with many. Its enduring popularity encourages new listeners to explore its layers and appreciate the craft of musical storytelling. For those interested in experiencing the song in full, listening to Blake Shelton’s rendition or exploring its roots with George Jones’s original version is highly recommended

Video

Lyrics

Well, I caught my wife with another man
And it cost me ninety-nine
On a prison farm in Georgia
Close to the Florida line
Well, I’ve been here for two long years
I finally made the warden my friend
And so he sentenced me to a life of ease
Takin’ care of Ol’ Red
Now, Ol’ Red, he’s the damnedest dog
That I’ve ever seen
Got a nose that can smell a two day trail
He’s a four legged trackin’ machine
You can consider yourself mighty lucky
To get past the gators and the quicksand beds
But all these years that I’ve been here
Ain’t nobody got past Red
And the warden sang
Come on somebody, why don’t you run?
Ol’ Red’s itchin’ to have a little fun
Get my lantern, get my gun
Red’ll have you treed ‘fore the mornin’ comes
Well, I paid off the guard and I slipped out a letter
To my cousin up in Tennessee
Oh, and he brought down a blue tick hound
She was pretty as she could be
Well, they penned her up in the swampland
‘Bout a mile just south of the gate
And I’d take Ol’ Red for his evening run
I’d just drop him off and wait
And the warden sang
Come on somebody, why don’t you run?
Ol’ Red’s itchin’ to have a little fun
Get my lantern, get my gun
Red’ll have you treed ‘fore the mornin’ comes
Now, Ol’ Red got real used to seein’
His lady every night
And so I kept him away for three or four days
And waited ’til the time got right
Well, I made my run with the evening sun
And I smiled when I heard ’em turn Red out
‘Cause I was headed north to Tennessee
And Ol’ Red was headed south
And the warden sang
Come on somebody, why don’t you run?
Ol’ Red’s itchin’ to have a little fun
Get my lantern, get my gun
Red’ll have you treed ‘fore the mornin’ comes
Now there’s red haired blue ticks all in the South
Love got me in here and love got me out

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