Gotta Travel On

Dave Dudley · Other Songs - Dave Dudley

I've laid around played around this old town too long

Summer's almost gone, winter's comin' on

I've laid around played around this old town too long

And I feel like I've gotta travel on



Papa writes to Johnny but Johnny can't come home

Johnny can't come home, no, Johnny can't come home

Papa writes to Johnny but Johnny can't come home

He's been on that chain gang too long



I've laid around played around this old town too long

Summer's almost gone, winter's comin' on

I've laid around played around this old town too long

And I feel like I've gotta travel on



High sheriff and police ridin' after me

Ridin' after me, comin' after me

High sheriff and police they' ridin' after me

And I feel like I've gotta travel on



I've laid around played around this old town too long

Summer's almost gone, winter's comin' on

I've laid around played around this old town too long

And I feel like I've gotta travel on



Wanna see my baby, wanna see her bad

Wanna see her bad, I've gotta see her bad

Wanna see my baby, I wanna see her bad

She's the best gal this poor boy ever had



I've laid around played around this old town too long

Summer's almost gone, winter's comin' on

I've laid around played around this old town too long

And I feel like I've gotta travel on

About Gotta Travel On

Dave Dudley's "Gotta Travel On" stands as a quintessential example of 1960s country storytelling, blending narrative depth with the genre's signature acoustic warmth. As a staple of his discography, the track exemplifies Dudley's ability to craft relatable tales of life's journey and the necessity of moving forward. The song's enduring appeal lies in its straightforward melody and lyrics that resonate with the universal experience of travel and personal growth, characteristic of the honky-tonk and ballad styles prevalent in his era. Released during a period when Dudley was establishing himself as a leading figure in country music, the recording captures the spirit of the road and the human condition. It remains a significant work in his catalog, often cited alongside other narrative-driven tracks that defined his artistic identity. The song's simplicity allows it to transcend specific trends, serving as a timeless reminder of the importance of perseverance and the stories we carry with us.