I hear people talkin’ bad,
About the way we have to live here in this country,
Harpin’ on the wars we fight,
An’ gripin’ ’bout the way things oughta be.
I don’t mind ’em switchin’ sides,
An’ standin’ up for things they believe in.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, Ye All,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
I read about these liberal guys,
Who claims, he don’t believe in fightin’.
I wonder just how long,
The rest of us can count on bein’ free.
They love our milk an’ honey,
But they preach about some other way of livin’.
When they’re runnin’ down my country, Ye All,
They’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Yeah, walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Runnin’ down the way of life,
Our fightin’ men have fought and died to keep.
If you don’t love it, leave it:
Let this song I’m singin’ be a warnin’.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
If you’re runnin’ down my country, man,
You’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me.
Patriotism and Conviction in “The Fightin’ Side Of Me”
“The Fightin’ Side Of Me” by Brooks & Dunn is a powerful anthem that channels a deep sense of patriotism and unwavering loyalty to one’s country. The lyrics voice frustration with those who criticize the nation while benefitting from its freedoms and resources. Through straightforward storytelling, the song draws a clear line between healthy debate and what the narrator perceives as disrespect toward the sacrifices made by veterans and citizens alike. The refrain, “If you’re runnin’ down my country, man, you’re walkin’ on the fightin’ side of me,” captures the core sentiment: a passionate defense of American values and a warning to those who disparage them. This track resonates with listeners who share a strong sense of national pride and a desire to honor the country’s legacy.
Song Credits
- Written by Merle Haggard
- Originally released in 1970