Released: 2010
“Fly Over States” by Jason Aldean is a tribute to the often-overlooked heartland of America. The song paints a picture of the beauty and hard work found in these ‘flyover states,’ challenging the dismissive attitude of those who only see them from above. Aldean highlights the value and richness of life in these regions.
The song kicks off with a scene on a flight from New York to Los Angeles. Two guys in first class are making small talk, flirting with flight attendants, and looking down at the land below. They see endless fields and highways, dismissing it as ‘the middle of nowhere.’ This sets up the central theme: the underappreciation of America’s heartland.
The lyrics then shift to a more personal perspective. Aldean sings about the people who live in these states, like the farmer in Indiana who works tirelessly to feed the nation. He emphasizes the hard work and dedication of these individuals, suggesting that those flying above miss out on understanding their importance.
Aldean continues by describing the natural beauty of these regions. He mentions the ‘harvest moon in Kansas’ and the ‘watercolor painted sky’ of Oklahoma. These vivid images serve to highlight the unique and often overlooked beauty of the flyover states, suggesting that there’s more to them than meets the eye.
The chorus invites listeners to experience these states firsthand. Aldean suggests that by driving through the badlands or meeting a girl from Amarillo, one might come to appreciate the freedom and open space these areas offer. He argues that experiencing this lifestyle could change one’s perspective.
The song closes by repeating the question, ‘Have you ever been through Indiana?’ This rhetorical question challenges listeners to reconsider their views and perhaps take a journey through these states themselves. Aldean makes a strong case for the value and beauty of the flyover states, encouraging appreciation and understanding.
