About The Song
“Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight”, released in 1980 by Rodney Crowell, is a timeless country song that captures the bittersweet feeling of leaving behind a place filled with memories, longing, and unfulfilled love. Written by Rodney Crowell and Donny Fritts, the song tells the story of someone leaving Louisiana in a hurry, escaping both the place and the relationship that has left them heartbroken and yearning for freedom. With its mix of upbeat rhythms and poignant lyrics, it remains one of Crowell’s signature tracks.
The song’s narrative is about the emotional complexity of leaving a place that holds deep sentimental value. The protagonist is trying to move on from a past relationship but finds themselves torn between the past and the future. The line “Leaving Louisiana in the broad daylight” symbolizes not just physical departure but an emotional escape. It’s a bold and deliberate action, yet tinged with sadness and regret. The urgency of the departure reflects the narrator’s need to break free from the weight of the past while still acknowledging the deep connection they have to the state and the love they once had.
Musically, “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” combines traditional country with a rockabilly flair, creating a lively and energetic sound that complements the urgency in the lyrics. The arrangement features electric guitar, a steady bass line, and steel guitar, all of which give the song a vibrant, Southern feel. The lively rhythm and upbeat tempo contrast with the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating an interesting balance between the song’s light, catchy melody and its deeper themes of love and escape. Crowell’s smooth, yet gritty voice is the perfect vehicle for conveying the internal struggle of the protagonist, as he delivers the lyrics with sincerity and emotion.
Upon its release, “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” became a commercial success, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This success helped propel Rodney Crowell into the mainstream, further solidifying his reputation as a gifted singer-songwriter. The song became one of his standout tracks, showcasing his ability to blend personal, emotional themes with mainstream appeal.
What makes “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” especially enduring is its relatability. The song speaks to anyone who has ever been forced to leave behind a place, person, or time in their life, even if it means leaving with a heavy heart. The yearning for freedom, coupled with the sadness of letting go, is a universal theme that resonates with listeners from all walks of life.
In the broader context of 1980s country, “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” helped define the era’s sound, blending traditional honky-tonk, rock, and Southern roots music. Crowell’s ability to mix elements of country and rock made him stand out in a time when New Traditionalist artists were shaping the genre. His raw, authentic delivery and ability to craft songs that speak to the heart made him a key figure in the evolution of 1980s country music.
Ultimately, “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight” remains one of Rodney Crowell’s most beloved songs. Its combination of emotional depth, infectious melody, and Crowell’s distinctive vocal style ensures its place as a classic in country music. Whether it’s the first time hearing it or the hundredth, the song’s themes of departure, love, and longing continue to resonate, making it a standout track in Crowell’s catalog and in the broader country music genre.