Purple Gas Lyrics

Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan

The Great American Bar Scene

Jul 8, 2024

English

Contents

About Song Credits

Lyrics
Meaning

Purple Gas Lyrics By Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan

[Verse 1: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann]
I've got plates for purple gas
'Bout the only break I catch
But I am not the kind of man
To blame the dealer on a losing hand
Have a lone star in my eye
The darker the sky, the brighter it shines
Pumpjack checks and baler twine
A ton of grit or maybe it's spite

[Chorus: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan]
And if I weren't a flatland boy, I'd say I have a hill
A hill that I will die upon if the climb don't get me killed
If there were such heights around here for a guy to lay his pride
Maybe I'd rest before I died if I weren't a flatland boy
If I weren't a flatland boy

[Verse 2: Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan]
I hammer down, hair straight back
World blurs past, tell me, how's it that
My horizon line's static?
I guess at least it's a sure bet
Was taught to not throw the first fist
But if you take a hit, finish that son of a bitch
In a life having the upper hand's a myth
Your only fighting chance is too stubborn to quit

[Chorus: Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan, Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan]
And if I weren't a flatland boy, I'd say I have a hill
A hill that I will die upon if the climb don't get me killed
If there were such heights around here for a guy to lay his pride
Maybe I'd rest before I died if I weren't a flatland boy
If I weren't a flatland boy

[Verse 3: Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan, Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan]
Retired rail ties, point-nine wire
Neighbor kid on the fencin' pliers
Fargo that turns over fine
At forty below if you cuss it right
A sly thumb of rye sometimes
Keep a bottle hid with the Bio-Mycin
You can dull the edge, you can look ahead
But can't get there, it goes on forever
Oh, it just goes on forever
You keep your head down, it goes on forever

[Outro: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann]
But I've got plates for purple gas
I've got plates for purple gas

[Verse 1: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann]
The first verse introduces the theme of resilience through the metaphor of "plates for purple gas," symbolizing the small, hard-earned breaks in life. The narrator acknowledges that he doesn't blame external factors for his hardships but instead takes responsibility for his actions. The imagery of a "lone star" and "darker sky" suggests that the tougher the situation, the more brightly one's determination can shine. The mention of "pumpjack checks" and "baler twine" reflects the rural, hardworking setting of the song, emphasizing the themes of labor and endurance.

[Chorus: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan]
In the chorus, the narrators express a longing for a sense of accomplishment or a tangible goal ("a hill to die upon"). The flatland metaphor highlights the endless, monotonous struggle they face, suggesting that without a clear endpoint, their efforts may feel futile. The repetition of the phrase "If I weren't a flatland boy" underscores their desire for a different life where their hard work might lead to visible success or rest.

[Verse 2: Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan]
The second verse continues the theme of relentless effort and the static nature of their environment. The narrator's determination is evident as they describe pushing forward despite the lack of change in their horizon. The advice to not throw the first punch but to always finish the fight reflects a code of resilience and self-defense, emphasizing that maintaining the upper hand in life is often a myth and survival depends on sheer stubbornness and perseverance.

[Chorus: Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan, Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan]
The chorus is repeated, reinforcing the idea of enduring struggles without clear victory or rest. The imagery of smoke and the lack of a hill to climb illustrates the flat, relentless nature of their challenges, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of their journey.

[Verse 3: Noeline Hofmann, Zach Bryan, Noeline Hofmann & Zach Bryan]
In the third verse, the narrators describe a harsh, rural life filled with hard work and survival strategies. The mention of "retired rail ties," "fencin' pliers," and a "Fargo that turns over fine at forty below" portrays a gritty, resilient lifestyle. The reference to dulling the edge with a "sly thumb of rye" and keeping a bottle hidden with medication indicates the coping mechanisms used to endure their hardships. The verse concludes with the acknowledgment that despite their efforts, the struggle seems never-ending.

[Outro: Zach Bryan & Noeline Hofmann]
The outro circles back to the starting metaphor of "plates for purple gas," reinforcing the theme of finding small victories and moments of respite amid continuous challenges. The repetition of this phrase highlights the resilience and determination required to navigate a life filled with relentless effort and minimal rewards.

About Song

"Purple Gas" is a new English song by Noeline Hofmann and Zach Bryan, featured on the album "The Great American Bar Scene." Written by Noeline Hofmann and produced by Zach Bryan, the song was released on July 8, 2024, under Zach Bryan's YouTube channel name. The collaboration between Hofmann and Bryan brings a blend of poignant storytelling and rich vocals, creating a memorable track that resonates with listeners.

The song "Purple Gas" delves into themes of resilience, determination, and the struggles of life in a flatland environment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by individuals who refuse to give up despite the odds. The metaphor of "purple gas" serves as a symbol of the unique struggles and minor victories that come with living a life grounded in grit and perseverance. The chorus emphasizes the idea of standing firm and facing challenges head-on, even when the landscape seems unchanging and relentless.