Matt and Audie were a few fine folk
Made love in the morning with a few high hopes
They’d leave a note and they’d kick up dirt
In a town only good for part-time work
They bought an Astro van and a loaded revolver
To head to Montana where the weather’s colder
They might steer South where the river’s red
Only thing they need now is each other or dead
Matt went to work nearly every day
And in one month’s time, they’ll be on their way
Audie prepared the van, you see
For a getaway bound to robbery
So, won’t you load up this bag because my sweet Audie is tired?
I promised her a life
I swear to God, I’ll fire
‘Cause her stomach, it’s keeps turnin’
My hands are calloused rock
I’d rather die a desperate man than a man that got caught
He made it out alive and looked her in the eyes
Told his lover, “No more scrapin’ by”
“We’re gonna be richer than the big machine”
“I’ll buy you diamonds bigger than the stars at sea”
So, won’t you load up this bag because my sweet Audie is tired?
I promised her a life
I swear to God, I’ll fire
‘Cause her stomach, it keeps growlin’
My hands are calloused rock
I’d rather die a desperate man than a man that got caught
Matt and Audie were a few fine folk
Made love in the mornin’s with a few high hopes
They stand so brave in a house out East
And tonight, Audie’s cookin’ herself a feast
Runaways and Dreamers: The Story of Matt and Audie
“Matt And Audie” by Zach Bryan tells the compelling tale of two kindred spirits desperate for a better life. Through vivid storytelling, the song follows the couple as they seek escape from their small-town struggles, buying an Astro van and a revolver with dreams of heading to Montana—or anywhere their hope might take them. The lyrics paint their love as both a source of strength and a reason for risk, as they turn to robbery to break free from poverty.
The Cost of Hope
Central to the song is the raw depiction of desperation and devotion. Matt’s willingness to “die a desperate man than a man that got caught” underscores the lengths he’ll go for Audie, reflecting the sacrifices made for love and survival. Despite their unlawful path, the song closes with a sense of triumph: the couple standing brave in a better life, Audie finally able to feast after years of deprivation.
Song Credits
- Artist: Zach Bryan
- Songwriter: Zach Bryan