Drivin N Cryin is a rock band that has been around since the early 1980s. Their music is known for its blend of Southern rock and alternative influences. One of their most popular songs is “Straight to Hell”, which was released in 1989. The song has been covered by several artists over the years, including Hank Williams Jr. and Darius Rucker. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song and its impact.

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The Story Behind the Song

“Straight to Hell” was written by Kevin Kinney, the lead singer of Drivin N Cryin. The song is about a young man who goes off to fight in the Vietnam War and returns home to find that he has lost everything. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s sense of disillusionment and despair, as he struggles to come to terms with what he has seen and experienced.

Kinney has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences growing up in the South. He has described it as a reflection on the “culture of violence” that he saw all around him. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Kinney said that he wanted to explore the idea that “war is a hellish place” and that it can change a person in profound ways.

The Impact of the Song

“Straight to Hell” was released at a time when the United States was still grappling with the legacy of the Vietnam War. The song struck a chord with many people who had either fought in the war themselves or had family members who had. It became an anthem for a generation of Americans who were coming of age in a time of great social and political turmoil.

Over the years, the song has been covered by several artists, including Hank Williams Jr., who recorded a version that became a major hit in 1987. Darius Rucker also covered the song in 2014, with a version that featured backing vocals from Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, and Lady Antebellum.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is “Straight to Hell” about?

” Straight to Hell ” is a song by the American rock band Drivin N Cryin. The song is about a young man who goes off to fight in the Vietnam War and returns home to find that he has lost everything.

2. Who wrote “Straight to Hell”?

The song was written by Kevin Kinney, the lead singer of Drivin N Cryin.

3. When was “Straight to Hell” released?

The song was released in 1989.

4. Who has covered “Straight to Hell”?

The song has been covered by several artists, including Hank Williams Jr. and Darius Rucker.

5. What was the impact of “Straight to Hell”?

The song struck a chord with many people who had either fought in the Vietnam War themselves or had family members who had. It became an anthem for a generation of Americans who were coming of age in a time of great social and political turmoil.

6. Why is “Straight to Hell” considered an important song?

The song is considered important because it reflects the experiences and concerns of a generation of Americans who were deeply affected by the Vietnam War and its aftermath.

7. How did Kevin Kinney come up with the idea for “Straight to Hell”?

Kinney has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences growing up in the South and witnessing the “culture of violence” that he saw all around him.

8. What is the legacy of “Straight to Hell”?

The song remains a powerful and influential piece of music today, and continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate its themes of loss and struggle.

9. What is Drivin N Cryin known for?

Drivin N Cryin is known for their unique blend of southern rock and alternative influences.

10. What other songs are Drivin N Cryin known for?

Drivin N Cryin is also known for songs like “Fly Me Courageous” and “Build a Fire”.

11. What are some other important Vietnam War songs?

Other important Vietnam War songs include “Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Ohio” by Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, and “War” by Edwin Starr.

12. What impact did the Vietnam War have on American society?

The Vietnam War was a deeply divisive conflict that had a profound impact on American society. It led to widespread protests and social unrest, and left a generation of Americans struggling to come to terms with its aftermath.