Jim Croce – Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)

About the song

Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy) by Jim Croce: A Country Ballad of a Racing Legend

In the pantheon of American folk music, Jim Croce stands out as a figure who captured the essence of the common man, weaving tales of love, loss, and the everyday struggles of life into his songs. With his raspy vocals and knack for storytelling, Croce crafted tunes that resonated with audiences, making him one of the most popular singer-songwriters of the 1970s. Among his enduring hits is “Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)”, a rollicking ode to a local racing legend who embodies the spirit of rebellion and the thrill of the chase.

“Rapid Roy” is a character larger than life, a dirt track demon who tears up the circuit in his souped-up ’57 Chevrolet. Croce paints a vivid picture of Roy, adorned with tattoos and a toothpick dangling from his mouth, exuding an air of cool confidence that sends the crowds wild. The song’s infectious melody and driving beat perfectly capture the adrenaline rush of stock car racing, while Croce’s lyrics delve into the heart of Roy’s persona, revealing a complex individual who finds solace and self-expression on the racetrack.

Beyond the thrill of the race, “Rapid Roy” also touches on themes of freedom and the pursuit of one’s passions. Roy is a symbol of the American spirit, embodying the can-do attitude and determination that have defined the nation’s character. He is a man who lives life on his own terms, defying expectations and carving his own path. In a world that often tries to conform us to its norms, “Rapid Roy” stands as a reminder to embrace our individuality and chase our dreams with unwavering passion.

“Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)” is more than just a catchy song; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the power of dreams and the allure of the open road. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, continuing to inspire and entertain generations of listeners. As Croce himself sings, “Roy’s so cool, that racin’ fool, he don’t know what fear’s about.” And in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming and uncertain, that’s a message we can all appreciate.

Video

Lyrics

“Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy)”

 

Oh Rapid Roy that stock car boy
He too much too believe
You know he always got an extra pack of cigarettes
Rolled up in his t-shirt sleeve
He got a tattoo on his arm that say “baby”
He got another one that just say “hey”
But every sunday afternoon he is a dirt track demon
In a ’57 ChevroletOh Rapid Roy that stock car boy
He’s the best driver in the land
He say that he learned to race a stock car
By runnin’ shine outta Alabam’
Oh the demolition derby
And the figure eight
Is easy money in the bank
Compared to runnin’ from the man
In Oklahoma City
With a 500 gallon tank

Oh Rapid Roy that stock car boy
He too much too believe
You know he always got an extra pack of cigarettes
Rolled up in his t-shirt sleeve
He got a tattoo on his arm that say “baby”
He got another one that just say “hey”
But every Sunday afternoon he is a dirt track demon
In a ’57 Chevrolet

Yeah, Roy’s so cool, that racin fool
He don’t know what fear’s about.
He do a hundred thirty mile an hour, smilin at the camera
With a tooth pick in his mouth.
He got a girl back home, name of Dixie Dawn
But he got honeys all along the way
And you oughta hear ’em screamin for that dirt track demon
in a ’57 Chevrolet.

Oh Rapid Roy that stock car boy
He too much too believe
You know he always got an extra pack of cigarettes
Rolled up in his t-shirt sleeve
He got a tattoo on his arm that say “baby”
He got another one that just say “hey”
But every sunday afternoon he is a dirt track demon
In a ’57 Chevrolet