Released: 2019
Jake Owen’s “Down To The Honkytonk” is a celebration of simple pleasures and the joy of living an unpretentious life. The song embraces the idea that fame and recognition aren’t necessary for happiness, as long as you have good friends, laughter, and a place to unwind.
The opening lines paint a picture of a modest, relatable life. A house on a back road, a flag on the porch, and a dog named Waylon. These details evoke a classic country lifestyle, filled with pride and simplicity. The mention of a driveway needing paving adds authenticity to the narrative.
Owen lists things he owns, like a boat and some jokes, and mentions having ‘friends in low places,’ a nod to Garth Brooks’ famous song. This suggests a contentment with his life, despite not having grand achievements. The phrase ‘life is what you make it’ underscores this theme.
The chorus reveals the heart of the song. Owen acknowledges he might not achieve fame or have a lasting legacy, but he finds fulfillment in going down to the honkytonk. The honkytonk symbolizes a place of community and enjoyment, where memories are made, even if they’re not recorded in history books.
In the second verse, Owen introduces Shelia, who ‘goes batshit on tequila,’ adding humor and a sense of real-life relationships. He talks about his job and a big loan, highlighting everyday struggles and triumphs. His name might only be on a wall for a good time call, yet he’s a ‘local legend’ on Friday nights.
The repetition of going down to the honkytonk in the chorus and outro reinforces the idea that while he may not leave a mark on the world, he’s happy with his life. The honkytonk is a metaphor for living in the moment and finding joy in the ordinary, a core message in country music.
