Compared to Southern rock pioneers and label-mates The Allman Brothers Band, Marshall Tucker had a more country and western feel, with the flute being a key lead instrument in their sound. "Can't You See", "Fire on the Mountain", and "This Ol' Cowboy" are among their songs that received appreciable FM radio airplay, while "Heard It in a Love Song" made it to #14 as a single on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1977.
Original bassist Tommy Caldwell died in a car crash on April 28, 1980. His brother, guitarist Toy Caldwell, died of respiratory failure on February 25, 1993.
There was no band member named "Marshall Tucker". Originally, the band called itself The Toy Factory (named after lead-guitarist Toy Caldwell). But by the time the band released its first album they had become the Marshall Tucker Band. During a radio interview in Hempstead, NY in 1973, Tommy Caldwell explained the origins of the band's name:
"There's an old blind dude [in Spartanburg, SC] that tunes pianos, and his name is Marshall Tucker... We didn't name the band after him, but we just kind of liked that name and stuck with it."
How Can I Slow Down
The Marshall Tucker Band Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I just run 'round like a fool
Stay in trouble all the time
Got put behind bars yeah
Served two years on the county line
Life aint no good at all
On a cold concrete pedestal
Oh wrote the words to this song
And how can I slow down
When I can't stop runnin'
My own shadow scares me to death
Got caught in Carolina town
When Woodrough sheriff come around
He caught me in the bed
With the county sheriff's wife
And how can I slow down
When I can't stop running
My own shadow scares me to death
The Marshall Tucker Band's song "How Can I Slow Down" is a story about a man who seems to be constantly on the run and getting himself into trouble. The song is filled with regret, pain, and the feeling of being trapped. The first verse sets the tone of the song, as the singer laments that he is always in trouble and has even spent time in jail. He seems to be trapped in a cycle of bad behavior, and he feels like he can't escape it.
The second verse tells a specific story about the singer's troubles. He got caught with the wife of the county sheriff in Carolina town. This event seems to have been a turning point for the singer, as he realizes that he can't keep running forever. However, despite this realization, he still doesn't know how to slow down and change his ways.
The chorus of the song repeats the question of how the singer can slow down when he can't stop running. He acknowledges that his own shadow scares him, indicating that he is haunted by his past and the things he has done. The song ends on a somber note, with the singer still feeling lost and unsure of how to break free from his self-destructive patterns.
Overall, "How Can I Slow Down" is a powerful song that captures the feeling of being trapped by your own actions. The lyrics are heartfelt and honest, and the music itself is soulful and bluesy, adding to the emotional impact of the song.
Line by Line Meaning
I just run 'round like a fool
My life is chaotic and aimless, I have no sense of direction or purpose.
Stay in trouble all the time
I constantly find myself in problematic situations, unable to escape from my self-destructive behavior.
Got put behind bars yeah
I was incarcerated in prison, with limited freedom and opportunities to improve my life.
Served two years on the county line
I spent two years in jail, serving my sentence and reflecting on my mistakes.
Life ain't no good at all
My existence is miserable and devoid of joy, with little hope for a better future.
behind these county walls
My life is confined and restricted within the walls of this detention center.
On a cold concrete pedestal
I feel isolated and disconnected from the outside world, forced to live in a sterile, uncaring environment.
Oh wrote the words to this song
I composed these lyrics as a reflection of my experiences, a way to express my emotions and connect with others.
And how can I slow down
I struggle to find a way to escape from my self-destructive tendencies and live a more fulfilling life.
When I can't stop runnin'
I feel trapped in a cycle of bad decisions and dangerous behaviors, unable to break free from my own destructive patterns.
My own shadow scares me to death
I am haunted by my own fears and doubts, constantly battling with my own demons and struggling to find inner peace.
Got caught in Carolina town
I was apprehended by the authorities in a small town in Carolina, caught in the midst of my own troubles and misbehavior.
When Woodrough sheriff come around
When the sheriff named Woodrough arrived at the scene, he uncovered my illegal activities and apprehended me.
He caught me in the bed
I was caught in the act of committing adultery with another woman, a violation of the law and a betrayal of ethics and morality.
With the county sheriff's wife
I engaged in an affair with another man's wife, a reckless and dangerous decision that ultimately led to my downfall.
Contributed by Samantha F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Dale Kidd
One of the best albums ever, nuff said!!!😎
drumming dog
Paul Riddle had a big influence on me in my early days. 45 yrs later its still mixed in with a lot of others. Thanks Paul
Marc Chambers
ow can I slow down listenin to Marshall Tucker
Evan Vengen
Got put behind bars yeah...served two years on the county line....Toy Caldwell cooks!