Many years ago my sister bought a Jimi Hendrix best-of album. One of the titles is 'Highway Chile,' which I read as a roadway in South America, not as an abbreviation of 'child.' I don't want my song to be confused with Jimi's, so I've changed the spelling and made mine about food.
I have no idea why, but I originally recorded this with a Bee Gees-type falsetto in the verses. Even more surprising is that I still have that take saved in the multitrack recording, and could reinstate it at any time.
Written 18 September 2005.
lyrics
Driving down the road
haulin' a heavy load
so lonely on the interstate
can't remember when I last ate
I need something to eat
now I'm feeling lucky
I just found a Stuckey's
Gonna get me some chili
Highway Chili
Highway Chili
Highway Chili
The waitress flashes a smile at me
I must admit I think she's pretty
I place my order for takeout
but she suggests that I hang around
anyone can see that she wants me
She asks if I will be her lover
I tell her that I'll think it over
if she gives me that recipe
Highway Chili
Highway Chili
Highway Chili
she says she's sorry but it's a secret
and I reply 'well you can forget it'
I take my chili walk out the door
won't be seeing her no more
now I'm speeding down Route 16
but I think maybe I should turn around
there's an empty place where my heart is found
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