This song explores themes of identity, belonging, and the unbreakable connection to one's roots. It reflects on personal growth, nostalgia, and the realization that no matter where life takes you, the essence of where you come from remains a fundamental part of who you are.
[Verse 1]
I been dreamin', I been drivin'
Tryin' to stay between the lines of
Who I am and who I used to be
I been livin', I been losin'
Walkin' miles in different shoes and
Findin' out I can’t run from me
Explanation of Verse 1
The first verse sets the stage by describing the singer's journey through life, highlighting the struggle to reconcile their current self with their past. The imagery of "driving" and "walking miles in different shoes" conveys the experiences and challenges faced along the way. The realization that one cannot escape their true self is a central theme here.
[Pre-Chorus]
And if I ever get a little too far
I remember where I left my heart
Explanation of Pre-chorus
The pre-chorus acts as a bridge, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to one's roots. It suggests that whenever the singer feels lost or disconnected, they find solace in remembering their origins, where their "heart" truly lies.
[Chorus]
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma
It's where my soul was born to be (Home)
No matter where I'm goin', I'm a wild wind blowin'
Just a-rollin' like a tumbleweed
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma
So you can't take it out of me
Explanation of Chorus
The chorus reinforces the song's main message: the indelible link to the singer's homeland, Oklahoma. It symbolizes the singer's identity and spirit, which cannot be separated from their place of origin. The metaphor of being a "wild wind blowin'" and "rollin' like a tumbleweed" captures the restless, wandering nature, yet rooted in the essence of home.
[Verse 2]
The sky is cryin', Mama’s callin'
Paint is peelin', grass is tall and
I'm still feelin' like I don't belong
Water tower, graffiti faded
Am I older or just jaded?
Everything and nothin' changed at all
Explanation of Verse 2
In the second verse, the singer describes scenes of their hometown, depicting both physical and emotional landscapes. The imagery of a crying sky and a calling mother evokes a sense of longing and connection. The singer reflects on their feelings of not belonging and questions whether they have become jaded with age. Despite the changes, some things remain constant, highlighting the timeless nature of home.
[Chorus]
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma (Home)
It's where my soul was born to be (Home)
No matter where I'm goin', I'm a wild wind blowin'
Just a-rollin' like a tumbleweed
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma
So you can't take it out of me
Explanation of Chorus
The chorus emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond the singer has with Oklahoma, depicting it as a core part of their identity. Despite being a free spirit who travels widely ("a wild wind blowin'"), the singer's soul is intrinsically tied to their home state. The imagery of a "tumbleweed" rolling yet always connected to its roots underscores this connection. The repeated assertion that you "can't take the home out of Oklahoma" highlights that no matter where life takes them, Oklahoma's influence remains an indelible part of who they are.
[Pre-Chorus]
And if I ever get a little too far
I remember where I left my heart
Explanation of Pre-chorus
The repeated pre-chorus serves to reinforce the idea of finding one's way back to their roots whenever they feel lost or distant.
[Chorus]
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma (Home)
It's where my soul was born to be (Home)
No matter where I'm goin', I'm a wild wind blowin'
Just a-rollin' like a tumbleweed
Can't take the home out of Oklahoma
So you can't take it out of me (Home)
Can't take it out of me (Home)
Explanation of Chorus
The final repetition of the chorus underscores the enduring bond with Oklahoma, emphasizing that this connection is an integral part of the singer's identity that cannot be removed or replaced.
OVERALL
This song beautifully captures the essence of how one's origin and experiences shape who they are, regardless of where life may lead them. The vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and pride for one's roots.
Album Twisters: The Album
Lainey Wilson