Lyrics
Johnny's on the back porch swingin'
Johnny is sitting on the back porch swinging.
Got his mind made up with a bottle of jack
He has decided on a course of action with a bottle of Jack Daniels.
He's gonna make things even
Johnny intends to restore balance or justice.
Got a real good reason that's a matter of fact
He has a valid and substantial reason for his actions.
Man they really did him dirty now after that there's no coming back
Johnny has been treated unfairly, and there's no turning back from the consequences.
Only said what he needs don't look for me I'm finally free
He expresses independence and freedom, asking not to be pursued.
But down the street
Despite his declaration, there's commotion down the street.
Folks get to their feet
People react, trying to fulfill their needs.
Try and find their needs
A search for meaning leaves them feeling like everyone else.
Wind up feeling like you and me
Common experiences make them similar to Johnny.
Now I don't know but I
Uncertainty expressed; Johnny is unsure.
Once was told
He recalls advice received, possibly about letting go.
By a cloud smoke
The advice comes from a source associated with smoke or haze.
Just let go
Surrendering control is encouraged.
Is what she starts to say
A woman suggests letting go as Johnny walks away.
As he walks away
Johnny walks away from the situation.
Now them chains are week
Chains are mentioned, indicating a burden or constraint.
Draggin' baby finally free
Despite the chains, Johnny is finally free.
Can't you see
Recognition of the weakened chains.
Them chains are weak
These weakened chains are not hindering Johnny anymore.
Ain't draggin' me
Johnny asserts his freedom; the chains don't hold him back.
I'm finally free
Reiterating his freedom.
Let 'em' keep talkin'
Encouraging disregard for others' opinions.
Some folks like to go downtown
Some people prefer going to the city.
Some get lost don't want to be found
Others may get lost and choose not to be found.
We can all do what we choose
Freedom of choice is emphasized; everyone can make their decisions.
It's not up to me if it matters to you
Johnny implies that the importance of choices is subjective.
So light your fuse and
A call to action, encouraging enjoyment and risk-taking.
Drink your booze
Enjoying alcoholic drinks is mentioned as part of the experience.
It's fun to lose
Having fun despite potential losses is acknowledged.
Sometimes we do
Occasionally, it's necessary to address issues or let them be.
Have to set things straight
Setting things straight is sometimes required.
Or just let them be
Choosing not to interfere and allowing situations to resolve on their own.
And them chains will break
When left alone, chains will break, and freedom is achieved.
Draggin' baby finally free
Reiteration of the idea that the chains are finally broken.
Can't you see
Emphasizing the evident weakness of the chains.
Them chains are weak
Asserting personal freedom; the weak chains don't restrain.
Ain't draggin' me
Insistence that the weakened chains aren't dragging Johnny down.
I'm finally free
Repeating the declaration of freedom.
Let 'em' keep talkin'
Encouragement to ignore gossip or criticism.
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