What Can I Do
David Allan Coe · Other Songs - David Allan Coe
I've always been a rambling man
But by the time I got to Phoenix
She didn't quite fit in my plans
I lost my heart in San Francisco
And found it in the streets of Baltimore
There must be someone wanting true love
Could it be you?
Hey vie got so much inside me to give
What can I do?
It seemed that Rachel's wings got colder
She finally crossed loves cheating line
She fell for some young Dallas cowboy
Hey, I never saw the danger signs
Whiskey and women was my weakness
Jack Daniels let me down again
About What Can I Do
David Allan Coe's "What Can I Do" stands as a quintessential example of his signature blend of country storytelling and unapologetic self-deprecation. Released during the height of his career, the track exemplifies his ability to weave personal vulnerability with the raunchy, blues-inflected sound that defined his discography. The song captures the weary spirit of a working-class man grappling with the pressures of life, a theme Coe explored with characteristic honesty across his catalog. Musically, the recording features Coe's distinctive gravelly voice and a rhythm section that anchors the song in traditional honky-tonk territory while pushing the boundaries of conventional country norms. It reflects the era's shift toward more adult-oriented country music, where artists began addressing complex emotional landscapes alongside their usual themes of drinking and road life. The song remains a staple of Coe's live performances, showcasing his enduring connection with audiences who appreciate his raw, unfiltered approach to songwriting.