Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight: A Country Classic by The Oak Ridge Boys
In the annals of country music, there are certain songs that have stood the test of time, becoming anthems for generations of listeners. “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” by The Oak Ridge Boys is one such gem, a captivating tale of love, loss, and the allure of the open road, set against the backdrop of the American South.
Released in 1979, the song quickly ascended to the top of the country charts, becoming the group’s second number-one single. Its success was no surprise, as it encapsulated the very essence of country music storytelling, weaving together relatable characters, vivid imagery, and a melody that tugged at the heartstrings.
The song opens with the introduction of Mary, a young woman who has fallen for a traveling man. Despite the disapproval of her family and the risks involved, she is determined to follow her heart, “leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight”.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Deep South, a land of “swamplands”, “alligator bait”, and “bars that don’t close”. It’s a place where “anything goes”, a fitting setting for Mary’s daring escape.
As Mary and her lover speed away, her “momma” is left behind, “crying with her head in her hands”. The scene is heartbreaking, capturing the pain of a mother who has lost her daughter to the allure of love and adventure.
The song’s chorus is a poignant declaration of Mary’s newfound freedom and the intoxicating power of love:
“Never have I known it when it felt so good Never have I knew it when I knew I could Never have I done it when it looked so right Leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight”
The Oak Ridge Boys deliver the song with their signature four-part harmonies, their voices soaring above the driving rhythm section. Their performance is both heartfelt and energetic, perfectly capturing the emotional rollercoaster of Mary’s journey.
“Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” is more than just a country song; it’s a story of love, loss, and the courage to follow one’s dreams. It’s a song that has resonated with listeners for decades, and it’s sure to continue to do so for many years to come.