About the song
Background
- Released in 1993 on Garth Brooks’ album “In Pieces”
- An up-tempo song with a bluegrass sound
- Though not written by Garth Brooks, it became a popular hit for him
Themes
- Long-distance connection: The song explores the attempt of a truck driver, presumably, to reconnect with a woman named Samantha he met briefly in Baton Rouge.
- Missed opportunity: The lyrics hint at a regret of not getting to know Samantha better.
- Intrigue: The narrator is captivated by Samantha, calling her “such a strange combination of a woman and a child.”
Lyrics
The song is a catchy tune with repetitive lyrics that emphasize the narrator’s desire to reach Samantha. Here’s an example:
“Callin’ Baton Rouge, gonna find my missing link Tell me, baby, where you at? I gotta think, think, think”
Video
Lyrics
I spent last night in the arms of a girl in Louisiana!And though I’m out on the highwayMy thoughts are still with herSuch a strange combination of a woman and a childStrange situation stoppin’ every hundred milesCallin’ Baton Rouge
A replay of last night’s events roll through my mindExcept a scene or two erased by sweet red wineAnd I see a truck stop sign ahead, so I change lanesI need a cup of coffee and a couple dollars changeCallin’ Baton Rouge
Here we go!Operator, won’t you put me on through?I gotta send my love down to Baton RougeHurry up, won’t you put her on the line?I gotta talk to the girl just one more time
Hello, Samantha dear, I hope you’re feelin’ fineAnd it won’t be long until I’m with you all the timeBut until then, I’ll spend my moneyUp right down to my last dimeCallin’ Baton Rouge
Yes come on!Operator, won’t you put me on through?I gotta send my love down to Baton RougeHurry up, won’t you put her on the line?I gotta talk to the girl just one more time
Callin’ Baton RougeSweet Baton RougeMy Baton RougeOh-oh, oh-oh-oh