Introduction
Released in September 1990 as the fourth single from his debut album Country Club, “Put Some Drive in Your Country” stands as a testament to Travis Tritt’s commitment to blending traditional country music with Southern rock influences. In this self-penned track, Tritt pays homage to legendary artists like Roy Acuff, George Jones, Waylon Jennings, and Hank Williams Jr., who significantly shaped his musical journey. The song encapsulates his promise to merge Southern rock and country, a fusion that he passionately pursued throughout his career.
The lyrics narrate Tritt’s musical evolution, highlighting his early exposure to country classics and the pivotal moment at fifteen when he first heard the electrifying sounds of Jennings and Williams Jr. This experience ignited his desire to infuse a more dynamic, rock-oriented energy into country music. Lines like “I made myself a promise when I was just a kid: I’d mix Southern rock and country, and that’s just what I did” reflect his dedication to this innovative blend.
Despite its energetic composition and clear rock & roll influence, “Put Some Drive in Your Country” faced challenges in gaining mainstream radio play. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic noted that the song stalled at number 28 on the charts, as radio programmers were hesitant to feature music with such pronounced rock elements. Nonetheless, Tritt believed that tracks like this, along with “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” were instrumental in boosting album sales more than some of his higher-charting singles.
The recording features a lineup of talented musicians, including Mike Brignardello on bass guitar, Larry Byrom on slide guitar, Dana McVicker providing background vocals, Bobby Ogdin on piano and keyboards, Jim “Jimmy Joe” Ruggiere playing harmonica, Steve Turner on drums and percussion, and electric guitar contributions from Billy Joe Walker Jr. and Reggie Young.
“Put Some Drive in Your Country” not only showcases Tritt’s musical influences but also underscores his role in pioneering a genre-blending sound that has influenced countless artists. By daring to infuse traditional country with a rock-driven edge, Tritt carved a unique niche in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the evolution of country music.
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