About The Song
Country music legend Kenny Rogers has gifted us with countless timeless classics that have touched the hearts of millions. Among his most beloved tracks is the poignant and evocative ballad, “Tennessee Bottle”. Released as part of his iconic album, The Gambler, this song has become a staple in the country music canon and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
“Tennessee Bottle” is more than just a song; it’s a journey through memory lane. Rogers’ smooth, velvety vocals paint a vivid picture of a bygone era, transporting listeners to a simpler time. The lyrics, filled with nostalgia and heartfelt emotion, explore themes of love, loss, and the comforting power of memories. The song’s title itself is a powerful symbol, representing a tangible connection to the past and a cherished keepsake.
At its core, “Tennessee Bottle” is a song about the enduring nature of love. Rogers’ heartfelt delivery conveys the deep pain of a lost love, yet also the hope that remains. The image of a Tennessee bottle, a symbol of the American South, serves as a poignant reminder of the shared experiences and connections that bind people together. The song’s melancholic tone is balanced by a sense of warmth and comfort, inviting listeners to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
Musically, “Tennessee Bottle” is a masterclass in traditional country songwriting. The gentle acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and pedal steel create a rich and textured soundscape that perfectly complements Rogers’ vocals. The song’s melody is both memorable and emotionally resonant, making it easy for listeners to connect with on a deep level.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes and Rogers’ ability to convey complex emotions with authenticity. “Tennessee Bottle” is a testament to the power of music to connect people across generations and cultures. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kenny Rogers or new to country music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyric
I broke the law and I used a gunI broke the Ten Commandments one by oneI always wished that I had a sonJust to teach him not toI lived in the valley and I hid in the hillsI stole moonshine from illegal stillsFolks said “Don’t rile him’cause he may kill” but only if I’ve got toAll I want is a Tennessee bottleAll I need is an Arkansas brideAll I can see is an Ozark mountain sunriseAnd 500 miles to hide my life, life, lifeTo hide my life to hide my lifeI tried to farm and I tried to mineI tried cuttin’ on the timberlineBut pain and sweat was all I’d findRewarding all my laborSo I robbed banks and I robbed trainsI lost one eye in a poker gameI gave up gambling ’cause it’s such a shameTo cheat your friends and neighborsAll I want is a Tennessee bottleAll I need is an Arkansas brideAll I can see is an Ozark mountain sunriseAnd 500 miles to hide my life, life, lifeTo hide my life to hide my lifeI think I’m gonna quit and change my waysSettle down and live an honest daySomeone said that crime don’t payBut I gotta ’nuff to live onI think I’m gonna move to Little RockLeave my doors without a lockI might be a foot without a sockBut I got cash to stand onAll I want is a Tennessee bottleAll I need is an Arkansas brideAll I can see is an Ozark mountain sunriseAnd 500 miles to hide my life, life, lifeTo hide my life to hide my life