About the song
Let’s embark on a nostalgic journey back to the heyday of country music, where truckers ruled the roads and melodies painted vivid pictures of life on the highway. In this excursion, we find ourselves cruising along to the iconic tune “East Bound and Down” by the one and only Jerry Reed.
Released in 1977, “East Bound and Down” quickly became a favorite among fans of country and trucker music alike. Written by Jerry Reed himself, this rollicking anthem found its place on the soundtrack of the classic film “Smokey and the Bandit,” starring Burt Reynolds and Sally Field.
Jerry Reed, a virtuoso guitarist and acclaimed songwriter, infused “East Bound and Down” with his signature charm and wit, capturing the essence of the open road and the thrill of a cross-country adventure. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus made it an instant hit, earning it a spot on the country music charts of the late ’70s.
“East Bound and Down” soared to the top of the charts, cementing Jerry Reed’s status as a country music icon. Its success contributed to the enduring legacy of both the song and the film, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Decades may have passed since its release, but “East Bound and Down” remains a beloved classic, evoking memories of trucker culture and the timeless allure of the American highway. So, crank up the volume, roll down the windows, and let Jerry Reed’s “East Bound and Down” transport you to a simpler time when the road stretched out before you, full of promise and adventure.
Video
Lyrics
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, 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
Keep 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 takes
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, 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
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, 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
Old Smokey’s got them ears on, he’s hot on your trail
And he ain’t gonna rest ’til you’re in jail
So you gotta dodge him, you’ve gotta duck him
You gotta keep that diesel truckin’
Just put that hammer down and give it hell
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’
Oh, 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