About the song
In the realm of contemporary country music, where virtuoso musicianship often intertwines with a playful spirit, the collaboration between Brad Paisley and Keith Urban on “Start a Band” stands out as a particularly engaging and infectious offering. Released in 2008, this duet not only showcases the exceptional guitar-playing prowess of both artists but also taps into a universal sentiment: the allure of musical camaraderie and the simple joy of creating music with friends.
Brad Paisley, known for his clever songwriting, wry humor, and dazzling guitar skills, and Keith Urban, celebrated for his dynamic stage presence and innovative approach to country instrumentation, bring their respective strengths to this vibrant track. “Start a Band” is not a tale of overnight success or rock-and-roll excess; rather, it’s a lighthearted and relatable narrative about finding solace and purpose in the act of forming a band. The song’s appeal lies in its down-to-earth perspective, suggesting that musical collaboration can be a refuge for anyone feeling out of sync with the world around them.
The song’s lyrics, co-written by Dallas Davidson, Ashley Gorley, and Kelley Lovelace, cleverly weave a story of individuals who find traditional paths unfulfilling. Instead of pursuing conventional careers, they embrace the liberating idea of starting a band. This theme of self-discovery and creative expression resonates with a broad audience, reminding us of the power of music to provide an outlet for our passions and forge meaningful connections with others.
Musically, “Start a Band” is a lively and energetic blend of country and rock, driven by the intricate guitar work that both Paisley and Urban are renowned for. The interplay between their guitars, characterized by skillful riffs and spirited solos, adds an extra layer of excitement and virtuosity to the song. It’s a celebration of the sheer fun of playing music, and this exuberance is palpable in every note. In essence, “Start a Band” is a testament to the enduring appeal of music as a source of joy, connection, and self-expression. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding path is the one we create ourselves, with a little help from our friends and a shared love of the music.
Video
Lyrics
Keith, check this out, just learnt itWait, waitOh man, sweet, sweet, check this one out too, hang on, hang onOh man, I hate thatI never was a straight-laced, straight-A studentTeacher’s pet or child prodigyI wasn’t gonna get rich throwin’ a footballIt’d take too long to get a law degreeSo I sat down with momma and daddyThey tried to talk some sense into my thick headBut the best advice that I ever gotWas from my sister’s rock star boyfriendJust get you a guitar an’ learn how to playCut up some jeans, come up with a nameWhen you’re living in a world that you don’t understandFind a few good buddies, start a bandStart a band! Start a bandAnd all those girls that were too cool to talk toThey’ll be waiting in the line out backMight get your picture in the hometown paperMaybe buy your momma that CadillacJust get you a guitar an’ learn how to playCut up some jeans, come up with a nameWhen you’re living in a world that you don’t understandFind a few good buddies, start a bandStart a band, scrape up some moneyBuy a van, learn “Free Bird” and “Ramblin’ Man”Never buy another beer again!So get you a guitar an’ learn how to playGrow out your hair, come up with a nameWith a little bit of luck you’ll be packing the standsFind a few good buddies, start a bandNo need to study, start a bandCall up some buddies, man, and start a band