Pick Up Man

Joe Diffie's song "Pick Up Man" is a nostalgic and humorous ode to the charm and utility of pickup trucks, woven with a narrative that spans from childhood to adulthood. The song begins with a whimsical memory of Diffie getting his first truck at the tender age of three, symbolizing the early bond and fascination he has with these vehicles. This early experience is filled with innocent adventures, like hauling marbles and rocks, and even a Barbie doll bed for the girl next door, who rewards him with a kiss. This moment marks the beginning of his understanding that there's something inherently attractive to women about a pickup man.

As the song progresses, Diffie recounts his teenage years, where his first real car is, unsurprisingly, a pickup truck. This vehicle becomes a symbol of his identity and a magnet for attention, particularly from women. The narrative highlights a significant moment when the homecoming queen, Bobbie Jo Gentry, flags him down, expressing her surprise and admiration for his choice of vehicle. This reinforces the recurring theme that pickup trucks are not just modes of transportation but also social and romantic catalysts.

The chorus of the song is a playful declaration of the pickup truck's irreplaceable value. Diffie humorously states that he wouldn't trade his truck for a luxury car, emphasizing its practical features like the eight-foot bed and the tailgate. The song also paints vivid scenes of Friday nights spent at drive-in shows, where the truck's cargo light sets a romantic mood. The pickup truck, whether a rusty old bucket or a brand-new machine, is portrayed as a timeless and beloved companion. Through these anecdotes, Diffie captures the essence of rural American life and the enduring appeal of the pickup man.