I'm a walkin' southern bound down the highway   Cars and buses and the big trucks pass me by   I walk awhile then I thumb they must think I'm a bum   For no one will give this country boy a ride   I left to get a job in that big city cause Lucy's dad said son don't hang around   I got her letter in the mail today and he can't keep me away   And tonight this lovesick boy is southern bound   Can't afford a ticket on that Big Gray Dog   Where I'm a goin' they don't know a freight train sound   I'm a long way from home cold and hungry and all alone   Tonight this country boy is southern bound   [ guitar ]   Now I know they'll all be glad to see me it's been so long since I left to roam   I can hear my mama cry as she kissed her boy goodbye   Tonight this country boy is a headed home   I've got just enough left to buy some coffee   I'll spend that if this road goes through the town   Take some money if I grind all I have left is my pride   If I have to walk I will I'm southern bound   Can't afford a ticket...   Tonight this country boy is southern bound