Drive-By Truckers is a rock band from Athens, Georgia, started in 1996 by friends Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley, who grew up in Alabama.
The band is renowned for its blend of Southern rock, country, and heartfelt stories about life in the South. They have released 14 studio albums and are famous for their powerful live shows and constant touring.
Their album Southern Rock Opera is considered one of the best rock albums of the 21st century. Although the band’s lineup has changed over the years, Hood and Cooley have remained the same.
About the Song
Decoration Day is a song about family struggles and deep conflicts that last for years. It tells a story of a father and son who have a painful history, but also shows how family ties and memories stay strong. The song reflects on forgiveness, pain, and the complicated feelings within families.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Released Date | June 17, 2003 |
| Album | Decoration Day (2003) |
| Writers | Jason Isbell |
| Producers | David Barbe |
Decoration Day Lyrics by Drive-By Truckers
It’s Decoration Day
And I’ve a mind to roll a stone on his grave
But what would he say?
“Keepin’ me down, boy, won’t keep you away.”
It’s Decoration Day
And I knew the Hill boys would put him away
But my Daddy wasn’t afraid
He said we’d fight till the last Lawson’s last living day
I never knew how it all got started
A problem with Hollan before we were born
And I don’t know the name of the boy we tied down
And beat till he just couldn’t walk anymore
But I know the caliber in Daddy’s chest
I know what Hollan Hill drives
The state let him go, but I guess it was best
‘Cause nobody needs all us Lawsons alive
Daddy said one of the boys had come by
The lumberman’s favorite son
He said “Beat him real good, but don’t dare let him die
And if you see Hollan Hill, run.”
Well I said, “They ain’t give us trouble before
That we ain’t brought down on ourselves.”
But a chain on my back and my ear to the floor
And I’ll send all the Hill boys to hell
I’ll send all the Hill boys to hell
It’s Decoration Day
And I got a family in Mobile Bay
And they’ve never seen my daddy’s grave
But that don’t bother me, it ain’t marked anyway
‘Cause I got dead brothers in Lauderdale South
And I got dead brothers in East Tennessee
When my daddy got shot right in front of his house
He had no one to fall on but me
It’s Decoration Day
And I’ve a mind to go spit on his grave
If I was a Hill I’d have put him away
And I’d fight till the last Lawson’s last living day
I’d fight till the last Lawson’s last living day
I’d fight till the last Lawson’s last living day
Similar Songs Like Drive-By Truckers
Here are some similar songs that share a style or theme with ‘Decoration Day’. Each song tells a story about Southern life, family, or tough choices, showing the band’s strong storytelling and unique sound.
- Let There Be Rock: This song looks back at growing up with rock music, sharing memories of concerts, friends, and the power of loud guitars.
- Outfit: Told from a father to his son, it offers simple advice on life, work, and staying true to one’s roots in the South.
- The Living Bubba: Inspired by a real-life musician, this song is about playing music even when life is hard, showcasing strong will and a love for the stage.
- Danko/Manuel: Named after members of The Band, this track talks about the struggles of musicians and the cost of chasing dreams on the road.
Similar Artists Like Drive-By Truckers
Check out these musicians, like the Drive-By Truckers, who blend Southern rock energy with meaningful lyrics and Americana style.
- Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
Genre: Americana, Southern Rock
Top Albums: The Nashville Sound (2017), Reunions (2020), Weathervanes (2023) - Son Volt
Genre: Alternative Country, Americana
Top Albums: Trace (1995), Okemah and the Melody of Riot (2005), Notes of Blue (2017) - Uncle Tupelo
Genre: Alternative Country, Roots Rock
Top Albums: No Depression (1990), Anodyne (1993), Still Feel Gone (1991) - Lucero
Genre: Alternative Country, Southern Rock
Top Albums: Tennessee (2002), Women & Work (2012), Among the Ghosts (2018)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Decoration Day Show the Effects of Family Legacy?
The song depicts how long-lasting family grudges and feuds become traditions passed down through generations, shaping family identity and conflict.
How is Silence Used to Show Emotional Pain in Decoration Day?
The silence between family members acts as a way to hide or avoid confronting deep sorrow and unresolved pain, emphasizing emotional distance.
How does Decoration Day Reflect on Personal Responsibility?
It highlights how people carry the guilt or burden for what they allow to happen within their family or community, showing the consequences of choices and inaction.
