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George Strait is a living legend in country music and has written and recorded many classic hits throughout his career. One of his lesser-known songs, “Arkansas Dave,” tells the story of a notorious outlaw and Confederate soldier. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song and the history of the man it was inspired by.
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The Story of Arkansas Dave
Arkansas Dave was a real-life outlaw named David Arnett. Born in Arkansas in 1838, he grew up in poverty and turned to a life of crime at a young age. He became known for his daring heists and his ability to evade the law.
During the Civil War, Arnett fought for the Confederacy and was wounded in battle. After the war, he returned to his life of crime and continued to rob banks and stagecoaches. He was eventually captured and sentenced to life in prison, but he escaped and fled to Mexico.
Arnett’s legend grew after his death when several books and movies were made about his life. He became a symbol of the Wild West and a folk hero to some. It is this legacy that inspired George Strait to write the song “Arkansas Dave.”
The Lyrics of Arkansas Dave
The song “Arkansas Dave” tells the story of a man who robs a bank and flees to Mexico. He is pursued by a lawman who is determined to bring him to justice, but Dave is always one step ahead.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Wild West and the life of an outlaw:
“Arkansas Dave, Arkansas Dave
Rode north out of Mexico, with a lawman hot on his trail
He took to robbin’ banks, found quick they didn’t pay
Soon became the legend known as Arkansas Dave.”
The chorus of the song celebrates Dave’s status as a folk hero:
“Arkansas Dave, the legend lives on
Him against the odds, out there all alone
With a price on his head, he lived by the gun
Arkansas Dave, the outlaw son.”
The Meaning Behind the Song
At its core, “Arkansas Dave” is a tribute to the Wild West and the legends that emerged from that time. It celebrates the courage, independence, and self-sufficiency that were valued in that era.
The song also speaks to the enduring appeal of the outlaw archetype. Despite their criminal actions, outlaws like Arkansas Dave are often seen as heroes who represent rebellion and freedom.
Through the lyrics of “Arkansas Dave,” George Strait captures the spirit of the Wild West and pays tribute to the legends of the past.
FAQs
1. Who was Arkansas Dave?
David Arnett, also known as Arkansas Dave, was an outlaw and Confederate soldier who became a legendary figure in the Wild West.
2. What did Arkansas Dave do?
Arkansas Dave was known for robbing banks and stagecoaches. He was a skilled outlaw who was able to evade the law for many years.
3. Why did George Strait write a song about Arkansas Dave?
George Strait was inspired by the legend of Arkansas Dave and the stories of the Wild West. He wanted to pay tribute to this era and the people who lived during that time.
4. What is the meaning behind the song “Arkansas Dave”?
The song celebrates the spirit of the Wild West and the legends that emerged from that era. It also speaks to the enduring appeal of the outlaw archetype.
5. What is the chorus of the song?
The chorus of the song goes:
“Arkansas Dave, the legend lives on
Him against the odds, out there all alone
With a price on his head, he lived by the gun
Arkansas Dave, the outlaw son.”
6. When was “Arkansas Dave” released?
The song was released in 2019 on George Strait’s album “Honky Tonk Time Machine.”
7. What is the style of “Arkansas Dave”?
The song is a classic country ballad with a nostalgic feel.
8. Was David Arnett really a Confederate soldier?
Yes, David Arnett fought for the Confederacy during the Civil War and was wounded in battle.
9. Was Arkansas Dave a real person?
Yes, David Arnett, also known as Arkansas Dave, was a real-life outlaw who became a legend of the Wild West.
10. What is the legacy of Arkansas Dave?
Arkansas Dave has become a symbol of the Wild West and a folk hero to many. His story inspired several books and movies and has become part of American folklore.
11. What is unique about “Arkansas Dave” compared to other George Strait songs?
“Arkansas Dave” is unique in that it tells a specific story of an outlaw and is rooted in history. While George Strait has written many classic country songs, this one stands out for its historical context.
12. What is the message of “Arkansas Dave”?
The message of “Arkansas Dave” is that despite his criminal actions, Arkansas Dave became a legendary figure in American folklore. The song celebrates his spirit of independence and self-sufficiency, which were highly valued in the Wild West.
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