by Alex Wilson
Album
Kentucky Bound
Year
2025
Genre
Country Rock/Country/Southern Rock
Duration
3:42
Description
"Win or Lose, We Ride" is a high-energy, anthemic country rock song about chasing dreams and leaving everything behind to pursue them. Rooted in Alex Wilson's personal journey from small-town Kentucky to Nashville, the song captures the defiant spirit of those who are willing to risk it all for a shot at success. It's a relatable tale of two friends hitting the road, fueled by ambition and a never-give-up attitude. The driving rhythm, catchy chorus, and relatable lyrics make it a perfect sing-along anthem for anyone who's ever dared to dream big.
Lyrics
[Verse 1] Gotta truck loaded down with everything I own Mama's crying on the porch, says I should stay home But there's a fire in my chest that won't let me be Gonna chase that neon dream or die trying, you see Gotta guitar and my pride, that's all I need tonight Heading down that interstate toward the city lights [Chorus] Win or lose, we ride Till the wheels fall off this dream Win or lose, we ride Ain't as crazy as it seems When your back's against the wall And you're betting it all Win or lose, we ride Win or lose, we ride [Verse 2] Called my buddy Jake, said "Boy, you coming too?" He said "Hell yeah, man, ain't got nothing left to lose" We been talking 'bout this since we were seventeen Playing cover songs and living someone else's dream Now the highway's calling and we're answering back Two small-town boys on a one-way track [Chorus] Win or lose, we ride Till the wheels fall off this dream Win or lose, we ride Ain't as crazy as it seems When your back's against the wall And you're betting it all Win or lose, we ride Win or lose, we ride [Bridge] Might end up broke and broken-hearted Might be right back where we started But we'll never have to wonder "what if" When we're old and gray and stiff [Guitar Solo] [Chorus] Win or lose, we ride Till the wheels fall off this dream Win or lose, we ride Ain't as crazy as it seems When your back's against the wall And you're betting it all Win or lose, we ride Win or lose, we ride [Outro] Yeah, win or lose, we ride Win or lose, we ride (Fade out)
Notes
Instrumentation: Standard country rock band setup - electric guitars (one with a slight overdrive, one clean rhythm), acoustic guitar (for added texture), bass guitar (driving, with a slight walking bass line during the verses), drums (straight-ahead rock beat with a little country swing), and potentially a keyboard or organ for subtle backing. Consider adding a harmonica for a touch of grit. The guitar solo should be energetic and blues-influenced, showcasing Alex's skill. Tempo: Upbeat and driving, perfect for head-nodding and air-guitar solos. Key: E major would be a strong key choice for a bright, energetic feel, also a comfortable key for a guitar-driven song and for male vocals. Structure: The song benefits from a well-defined structure. Consider adding a pre-chorus to build anticipation. A guitar solo after the bridge provides a dynamic break before the final chorus. Vocal Delivery: Alex should deliver the lyrics with conviction and passion, capturing the raw emotion and determination of the song's message. Think Springsteen or Mellencamp influence. Overall Feel: High-energy, anthemic, and relatable. This is a song that should inspire listeners to chase their dreams, no matter the odds.