About the song
Jerry Reed’s “East Bound and Down,” a quintessential anthem of the American road, was born out of the iconic 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit. The song, penned by Reed and Deena Kaye Rose, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the movie’s high-speed escapades and the allure of the open highway.
With its catchy melody and driving rhythm, “East Bound and Down” serves as a sonic portrait of the film’s plot. The lyrics chronicle the daring journey of a moonshine runner, transporting a massive haul of Coors beer from Georgia to Texas and back in a record-breaking 28 hours. The song’s imagery of speeding cars, police chases, and the camaraderie of the road evokes a sense of excitement and nostalgia.
Reed’s vocals, infused with a gritty, southern charm, perfectly match the song’s rebellious tone. His performance is complemented by the harmonies of the Jordanaires, a legendary vocal group known for their work with Elvis Presley. Together, they create a sound that is both energetic and soulful.
The song’s title, “East Bound and Down,” is a nod to CB radio slang, where it signifies the end of a transmission but the continued listening to the channel. This phrase has become synonymous with the trucking culture and the open road, making it a fitting choice for a song about a high-stakes journey.
“East Bound and Down” is more than just a catchy tune; it is a cultural touchstone that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to capture the spirit of adventure, freedom, and the American Dream.
Video
Lyrics
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-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” runKeep 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 takesEast bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-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” runEast bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-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” runOl’ Smokey’s got them ears on
He’s hot on your trail
And he aint gonna rest ’til you’re in jail
So you got to dodge ‘im and you got to duck ‘im
You got to keep that diesel truckin’
Just put that hammer down and give it hellEast bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
A-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