by Alex Wilson
Album
Between Two Highways
Year
2025
Genre
Country/Americana/Country Rock
Duration
3:58
Description
At ~96 BPM in G major, start with worn-in acoustic guitar and thumping kick with brushed snare, setting a rootsy rhythm on the verse (G–D–Em–C), Fiddle hooks weave in response to the gritty close-miked vocal, Chorus lifts with pedal-steel swells, walking bass, and the progression (G–Em–C–D), A subtle modern pad glimmers beneath the bridge, adding atmosphere without crowding the mix
Lyrics
[Verse 1] Rented room above a tyre shop, box fan hummin’ warm July, Pay stub folded in a coffee tin, grease still under my nails tonight. Neighbor’s Ford won’t turn at dawn, I’m out there with jumper leads, He shakes my hand and grins, “You saved my shift” — that’s country far as I need. [Pre-Chorus] Ain’t about a skyline, wheat field or pines, It’s showin’ up when the day gets mean. [Chorus] ’Cause country’s just a state of mind, not a ZIP code on a sign, It’s a calloused hand and a promise kept, and a back you straighten proud. It’s passin’ hats for hard-hit folks, and prayin’ soft without a sound, If you carry that inside your bones — you’re country, same as mine. [Verse 2] Night shift nurse on break at three, cracked phone, cold fries, tired eyes, Wheels a stranger’s mama down the hall, stays late though her meter’s fines. Line cook wipes the grill lights out, splits his tips with the new kid shy, Text from home says rent is due — he laughs, says, “We’ll be alright.” [Pre-Chorus] I’ve seen it in the city glow, on county roads and trains, In people holdin’ doors for folks who never knew their names. [Chorus] ’Cause country’s just a state of mind, not a ZIP code on a sign, It’s a busted boot but a steady stride, it’s yes sir, I won’t quit. It’s keepin’ faith when the numbers don’t, and makin’ one more shift. If you carry that inside your bones — you’re country, same as mine. [Bridge] It’s patched-up jeans and borrowed time, a lunch pail full of hope, It’s learnin’ how to fix what breaks with Haynes-stained kind of notes. It’s “take my seat,” “have my coat,” “you go first, I’ll wait in line,” It ain’t on maps or license plates — it’s carved in how you try. [Chorus – up a gear, fiddle answering every line] Country’s just a state of mind, not a ZIP code on a sign, It’s waterin’ graves on Sunday morn and clockin’ in by nine. It’s tellin’ truth when truth is hard, and keepin’ love alive, If you carry that inside your bones — you’re country, same as mine. [Tag / Outro] Box fan hums, street goes quiet, neon flickers closed for night, I set my boots by the window light — feel that country on the inside.
Notes
Instrumentation: Acoustic guitar (rhythm and fingerpicking), Dobro (solo and fills), Banjo (rhythmic drive), Upright Bass (walking basslines), Drums (subtle brush work and a driving snare on the choruses), Electric Guitar (subtle, atmospheric pads and a bluesy solo during the instrumental break), Harmonica (call and response with vocals in bridge). Tempo: 130 BPM provides a good balance between driving energy and heartfelt storytelling. Key: G Major allows for bright, uplifting melodies while still maintaining a grounded feel. Structure: The song follows a traditional country structure (Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Instrumental Break-Chorus-Outro). The instrumental break provides an opportunity for showcasing the musicians' virtuosity and allows the song to breathe before the final chorus. Performance Notes: Vocals should be strong and emotive, with a slight rasp and a focus on storytelling. The instrumental break should be dynamic, starting with a bluesy electric guitar solo that builds into a more traditional Dobro showcase. Dynamics are key – verses should be more intimate, while choruses should be full and anthemic. Consider adding harmonies on the choruses for added impact. The outro should be delivered with conviction and warmth, leaving the listener with a sense of hope and belonging. The bridge builds into a powerful moment, harmonica trading licks with vocals creates a call and response between singer and instrumentalists. This builds to the final chorus, where a slight increase in tempo or dynamics would be welcome. During mix, add reverb to create spaciousness, and don't be afraid to experiment with modulation effects on the harmonica to create texture.