The meaning of Puttin' People On The Moon by Drive By Truckers

"Puttin' People on the Moon" is a song by Drive-By Truckers that tells the story of a small-town Southern boy's journey to make his mark on the world. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man growing up in a place where the only excitement comes from drinking and partying.

The song's narrator is a restless soul, always looking for a way out of his mundane life. He dreams of making it big, of achieving something that will make him famous and respected by his community. The chorus, "Puttin' people on the moon, one small step at a time," becomes a sort of mantra for the narrator, as he tries to find ways to make his mark.

Throughout the song, the Drive-By Truckers use their signature blend of country, rock, and Southern roots music to create a sense of nostalgia and longing. The lyrics are full of references to small-town life, from the local diner to the high school football field. But beneath all the familiar tropes, there's a deeper theme at work: the search for identity and purpose.

The song's narrator is driven by a desire to make his mark, to leave his stamp on the world. He's not content to just drift through life, waiting for something to happen. Instead, he's determined to take control of his own destiny, even if that means taking some risks along the way. "Puttin' people on the moon," as the song says, is a metaphor for achieving greatness, for pushing beyond what's expected and making a name for oneself.

The Drive-By Truckers are no strangers to storytelling in their music. "Puttin' People on the Moon" is just one example of their ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. The song has become a fan favorite, and it's easy to see why: it's a powerful exploration of the human desire for connection and meaning.