This labor I’ve been doing ain’t got no reason or rhyme
And I can’t hardly wait for it to finally be quittin’ time
And I’ve been pushing steel through a run down rust belt plant
And I can’t wait to head on home, so I can take my gal to dance
How I’ll take my gal to dance
Oh, I’ll take my gal to dance
The desert sure is hot and we’ve been working through the days
I pray I get back to my loving lady’s gaze
Rifle in my hand and some brothers to my side
I can’t hardly wait for it to finally be quittin’ time
Oh, I pray it’ll be quittin’ time
Oh, one day it’ll be quittin’ time
Quittin’ time’s on my mind
But her kind eyes are on my heart
I’ve been sweating for my wages
But she’ll cool me after dark
How she’ll cool me after dark
I know she’ll cool me after dark
And I’ve been roofing houses atop of homes I can’t afford
But I’m saving all my pennies and I’m praying to the lord
One day we’ll make it through all this barely gettin’ by
I’m taking out my woman and we’re dancing barefoot tonight
Quittin’ time’s on my mind
But her kind eyes are on my heart
I’ve been sweating for my wages
But she’ll cool me after dark
How she’ll cool me after dark
Oh, she’ll cool me after dark
The Heartbeat of Hard Work and Hope
“Quittin’ Time” by Zach Bryan is a vivid portrayal of blue-collar resilience, longing, and the comforts of love. The lyrics follow a narrator who toils through demanding jobs—from a rust belt factory to roofing homes—carrying the weight of everyday struggles. Despite the exhaustion and monotony, the anticipation of “quittin’ time” becomes a beacon of hope, symbolizing a return to the warmth and solace found in a loved one’s embrace. Bryan masterfully intertwines the grit of daily labor with the tender anticipation of simple joys: taking his gal to dance, sharing quiet evenings, and dreaming of a better tomorrow. The constant refrain about being cooled “after dark” by her kindness underscores the healing power of love, making this song both a tribute to perseverance and a celebration of intimate connection.
Song Credits
Artist: Zach Bryan
Songwriter: Zach Bryan
Release Year: 2024