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Introduction
“Ballad of Balad” is a song that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the raw and gritty reality of life in a war zone. Toby Keith, known for his patriotic anthems and heartfelt ballads, delivers this track with a blend of sincerity and resilience that captures the essence of a soldier’s life in Iraq.
Imagine you’re sitting around a campfire with Toby Keith himself, a guitar resting on his knee as he begins to strum and sing about the tales from Balad Air Base. The song isn’t just a recount of events; it’s a vivid narrative that pulls you into the scorching heat, the dust-covered boots, and the camaraderie that binds soldiers together. Keith’s voice, rugged yet tender, tells stories of bravery, hardship, and the unwavering spirit of those who serve.
What makes “Ballad of Balad” special is its authenticity. Keith doesn’t sugarcoat the experiences; he paints them as they are, with a raw honesty that feels like a conversation with an old friend who’s been through it all. The song’s lyrics are poignant, capturing moments of humor, sorrow, and unbreakable bonds formed in the face of adversity.
Listening to this track, you can almost feel the weight of the gear, hear the distant echoes of gunfire, and sense the fleeting moments of joy and relief amidst the chaos. It’s a song that not only honors the troops but also offers a glimpse into their world, bridging the gap between those on the front lines and those back home.
Toby Keith’s “Ballad of Balad” is more than just a song; it’s a tribute, a story, and a heartfelt salute to the men and women who give their all. Whether you have a personal connection to the military or simply appreciate a well-told tale, this ballad is bound to leave a lasting impression, reminding us all of the sacrifices made and the resilience of the human spirit.
Video
Lyrics
I quit school in the 10th grade and I grew out my hair
I got me a job doing lawnmower repair
I met an army recruiter down at the Wynn Dixie
He said “son, you’ve no future, pack up and go with me”
The first place we landed was a base called Ballad
They convoyed our asses to a 10 acre F.O.B
With my boots and my cover and an old M16
Two bottles of water and a cold M.R.E
Oh, you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir, I got that
Ah, but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
You never told me I’d get my ass shot at
The first night in combat we went out on patrol
They ambushed our convey and we chased the asshole
We found them all hiding in low water ditches
And we took aim and killed all them, son of a bitches
Oh, you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir, I got that
Ah, but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
You never told me I’d get my ass shot at
Walked in on my buddy with a female M.P
The ugliest woman you ever did see
He said “why are you laughing, you got lots of nerve”
Over here in the desert we grade on the curve
Ah you’ll meet lots of new friends and you’re sure to get paid
We’ll show you the world and we’ll teach you a trade
It’s not a job, it’s an adventure, oh yes sir, I got that
Ah, but you never told me I’d get my ass shot at
Oh, you never told him he’d get his ass shot at