About The Song
Kenny Rogers has always had a knack for telling stories through his music, and “King of Oak Street” is no exception. This poignant ballad, released in 1983 as part of his album Eagle, paints a vivid picture of a small-town life and the challenges that come with it.
The song, penned by Maxine Carrell, Kent Blazy, and Roger Murrah, presents a narrative of a man who, despite his humble beginnings, has achieved a certain level of success. However, this success is tempered by the realization that he has left behind the simplicity and camaraderie of his hometown. The “King of Oak Street” is not a king in a grand castle, but rather a man who reigns over the hearts of his friends and neighbors.
Rogers’ smooth baritone voice perfectly captures the nostalgic tone of the song. His delivery is both heartfelt and understated, allowing the lyrics to speak for themselves. As he sings about returning to his hometown and revisiting old haunts, listeners can almost feel the weight of his memories.
The imagery in the song is both evocative and relatable. From the “old oak tree” that stands as a symbol of the town’s history to the “rusty swing set” that represents childhood innocence, the lyrics transport the listener to a simpler time. The song’s chorus, “I’m just the king of Oak Street, still looking for my queen,” encapsulates the universal longing for connection and belonging.
Musically, “King of Oak Street” is a classic country ballad, featuring a gentle acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and subtle string arrangements. The instrumentation creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements Rogers’ vocals. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
Kenny Rogers’ interpretation of this song is masterful. His ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from nostalgia to longing, makes this track a standout in his discography. Whether you’ve lived in a small town or simply appreciate a well-crafted story, “King of Oak Street” is a song that will resonate with you.
“King of Oak Street” is a timeless country ballad that celebrates the simple pleasures of small-town life and the enduring power of human connection. Kenny Rogers’ heartfelt performance, combined with the evocative lyrics and beautiful melody, make this song a true classic. It’s a reminder that even as we strive for success, it’s important to cherish the memories and relationships that shaped us
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Lyric
Like a leaf caught in the wind, he drifted a while
With no purpose or direction to his life
He tried to get himself together and pacify his mind
And forget about the things he’d left behind[Verse 2]
A cryin’ woman he left standing in his door
With a two month old baby in her arms
His little black book he left torn up on the floor
God only knows he never meant to do her wrong[Verse 3]
A careless weekend on the other side of town
Has torn the king of Oak Street’s castle down
And all week long he’s tried to phone her, but she won’t let him explain
Now Sunday morning finds him walking in the rain[Verse 4]
He sits down in a phone booth and he prays
That she’ll forgive him and she’ll believe he’s changed his ways
With shaking hands, he deposits his last dime
And he’s still praying that she won’t hang up this time[Verse 5]
Then the sweetest voice he’s ever heard says hello
Breakfast’s almost ready, baby, come on home
I’ve thought the whole thing over and I think I understand
That the king of Oak Street is just an ordinary man[Outro]
I’ve thought the whole thing over and I think I understand
That the king of Oak Street is just an ordinary man