Old Dan Tucker's Daughter

Tanya Tucker · Other Songs - Tanya Tucker

Mama died havin' me and papa tried to raise me

And then he took to drinkin' when I was only three

I'd follow him and his guitar along the streets of Mobile

Where he'd sing for just a drink and a lollipop for me



Then at night he sat me on the bar while he did some singin'

I played with his old railroad watch when I was a dancin'

And I passed around his worn out hat, they're pitchin' down some quarters

Oh how proud I was to be old Dan Tucker's daughter



Things seemed to go from bad to worse as I grew sadly older

And papa looked so down and out failin' more each day

And pride I always felt to him slowly turned to pity

And Lord you know it broke my heart each time I hear them say



Get out away old Dan Tucker

Take this dime and take this quarter

Get out away old Dan Tucker

Take your wine and take your daughter



Papa died just today a cold gray Mobile mornin'

Now here I stand all alone cryin' on his grave

Not a single soul from Mobile came to wish him well his journey

But at least for papa's goin', no one there will say



Hey, get out away old Dan Tucker

Take this dime and take this quarter

Get out away old Dan Tucker

Take your wine and take your daughter

Old Dan Tucker's Daughter

Tanya Tucker's 'Old Dan Tucker's Daughter' stands as a defining anthem of country storytelling, blending her signature twang with a narrative of rural life and resilience. Recorded during the height of her career, the track exemplifies the genre's tradition of weaving personal history into broader social commentary. Tucker's vocal delivery captures the grit and warmth of the American South, making the song a staple in her discography that resonates with listeners who appreciate authentic country music. The recording reflects the era's emphasis on narrative-driven ballads, where the protagonist's journey serves as a metaphor for enduring hardship and finding strength in community. As a key piece in her catalog, the song continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and its role in cementing Tucker's legacy as a master of the country singer-songwriter format.