About The Song
Charley Pride was a pioneer in country music, and his songs often painted vivid pictures of life and love. One of his most iconic tracks, “Detroit City,” is a heartfelt ballad about longing for home. Released in 1966, this song has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with listeners today.
“Detroit City” tells the story of a man who has left his rural hometown to seek a better life in the bustling metropolis of Detroit. While the city offers opportunities and excitement, the narrator finds himself longing for the simplicity and warmth of his rural upbringing. The lyrics, penned by Mary Idle and Steve Dorff, capture the loneliness and isolation that can come with being far from home.
Pride’s rich, baritone voice is the perfect vehicle for this emotional journey. His delivery is both soulful and understated, allowing the lyrics to speak for themselves. The melody is simple yet effective, with a classic country feel that is both familiar and comforting. The instrumentation, featuring pedal steel guitar and acoustic guitar, adds to the song’s nostalgic atmosphere.
One of the things that makes “Detroit City” so enduring is its universal theme of homesickness. Everyone can relate to the feeling of longing for a place or a time that feels like home. The song’s message is also one of hope, suggesting that no matter how far we may wander, there is always a place in our hearts for where we came from.
Charley Pride was a master of storytelling, and his songs often resonated with listeners on a deep emotional level. “Detroit City” is a prime example of his talent, and it remains a beloved classic among country music fans. If you’re looking for a song that will tug at your heartstrings and make you reflect on your own experiences, look no further than this timeless ballad.
“Detroit City” is a beautiful and poignant country ballad that showcases the talents of Charley Pride. Its heartfelt lyrics, combined with Pride’s soulful vocals, make it a must-listen for fans of classic country music.
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Lyric
I want to go home I want to go home oh Lord I want to go homeLast night I went to sleep in Detroit CityAnd I dreamed about those cotton fields and homeI dreamed about my mother dear old papa sister and brotherI dreamed about that girl who’s been waiting for so longI want to go home I want to go home oh Lord I want to go homeHome folks think I’m big in Detroit CityFrom the letters that I write they think I’m fineBut by day I make the cars by night I make the barsIf only they could read between the lines‘Cause you know I rode a freight train north to Detroit CityAnd after all these years I find I’ve just been wasting my timeSo I just think I’ll take ol’ Charley Pride put him on a Southbound freight and rideAnd go on back to the loved ones the ones that I left waiting so far behindI want to go home I want to go home oh Lord I want to go homeI want to go home I want to go home I want to go gome