Memorial Day is right around the corner and it brings with it the official start of summer. To many of us, summertime means relaxing beach days, ice-cold cold beer, and of course the country music concert season. Though summer fun is near, we must keep in mind that Memorial Day is a holiday that was created to remember the lives of those that died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. When thinking about Memorial Day, I can’t help but think about one of my absolute favorite country songs, ‘Riding With Private Malone.’
USA Today referred to ‘Riding With Private Malone’ as “the country song that tapped most subtly and profoundly into the emotions of its audience.” David Ball’s ‘Riding With Private Malone’ is one of those songs that makes you proud to be an American. Penned by Wood Newton and Thom Shepherd, it is the first single released from Ball’s album ‘Amigo’ in August 2001. This song is written so well that it almost plays out as a movie in your mind’s eye as you are listening. It is about a serviceman who finds an advertisement for an ‘old Chevy.’ After snatching up his barn-find bargain, he realizes it’s actually a 1966 Corvette. As time goes on he finds a note in the glove box that reads: My name is Private Andrew Malone. And if you’re reading this, then I didn’t make it home. But for every dream that’s shattered, another one comes true. This car was once a dream of mine, now it belongs to you. And though you may take her and make her your own. You’ll always be riding with Private Malone. This is precisely the point that I start to get goosebumps! The song goes on to describe one night when the driver got into a fiery crash: Someone said they thought they saw a soldier pull me out. They didn’t get his name, but I know without a doubt… How can you help but get a little emotional thinking about the soldier that didn’t return from war and the connection this soldier had with his prized 66 Corvette?
Country music is one of those genres that just gets to your soul. It tugs at your heart and sometimes, just sometimes, brings a tear to your eye. ‘Riding With Private Malone’ is one of those country songs that does just that. Though seventeen years old, it is a country song worth listening to. And while you’re preparing for your barbecue this Memorial Day weekend, don’t forget to honor those like Private Andrew Malone, that died for our freedom.
You can purchase ‘Riding With Private Malone’ on iTunes here.