I’ve heard all the stories of you back in your prime
How you held all your pride in hands stained
And you’d go to work for a breadcrumbs and dirt
So your kids could stand tall in their name
And you’d told me, “Son, they’re things to be done
When you’re older and stronger like me”
You give all you have just to be a good dad
And you’ll die a thousand times just to please
An old man, the blood that you bled
And the mouths that you fed at your door
An old man, the sweat that you pour
Proves that they don’t make ’em like you no more
An old man, the dinners you missed
So your daughters could eat at this table
An old man, I would give back
All the things that you’ve lacked if I’s able
I’ve never seen you smile like you did out in Pineville
When the crowd screamed the words of your kid
And you told me, “Boy, it’s been a long hard road
In this life that I’ve chose for my kin.
And I wish and I pray I could go back in time
So I could raise up this family again.”
An old man, the blood that you bled
And the mouths that you fed at your door
An old man, the sweat that you pour
Proves that they don’t make ’em like you no more
An old man, the dinners you missed
So your daughters could eat at this table
An old man, I would give back
All the things that you’ve lacked if I’s able
I’ve heard all the stories of you back in your prime
How you held all your pride in hands stained
A Tribute to Sacrifice and Legacy
“Old Man” by Zach Bryan paints a heartfelt portrait of generational sacrifice and unspoken love. The lyrics recount stories of a father’s hard work and unwavering dedication, evoking nostalgia and reverence. Bryan’s words highlight the pride, grit, and selflessness that define the old man’s life — from laboring for mere “breadcrumbs and dirt” to providing for his family at any cost. The refrain, repeated with emotional resonance, acknowledges the physical and emotional toll of these sacrifices while expressing deep gratitude and a wish to give back. Moments of rare joy and reflection, such as the Pineville scene, underscore the father-son bond and the bittersweet passage of time. Ultimately, the song is a moving tribute to those whose quiet strength shapes future generations.
Song Credits
- Artist: Zach Bryan
- Songwriter: Zach Bryan