Road Scholar (with Delbert Mcclinton)

Lee Roy Parnell's song "Road Scholar (with Delbert McClinton)" is a heartfelt tribute to the life of a traveling musician. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Parnell's journey from his humble beginnings in Texas to becoming a seasoned performer. Growing up on the great high plains with nothing but a Silvertone guitar, Parnell sets off at seventeen, driven by his passion for music. This journey is not just a physical one but also a metaphorical path of self-discovery and dedication to his craft.

The term "road scholar" cleverly plays on the phrase "Rhodes Scholar," highlighting the unconventional education Parnell received through his experiences on the road. Instead of attending a traditional university, he earned his degree from the "honky tonk university," where the roadhouse served as his schoolhouse. This metaphor emphasizes the practical, hands-on learning that comes from real-life experiences, particularly in the world of music. Parnell's teachers were legendary musicians like "the killer" (Jerry Lee Lewis) and "the hound dog man" (Elvis Presley), and his classmates were his bandmates, illustrating the collaborative and communal nature of his education.

The song also delves into the hardships and rewards of a musician's life. Parnell's dormitory was a string of cheap hotels, symbolizing the transient and often challenging lifestyle of a touring artist. Despite these difficulties, he proudly declares that he has survived it all and is alive and well. This resilience and passion for music are central themes in the song, celebrating the joy and fulfillment that come from pursuing one's true calling. The wheels whining on the highway become a comforting sound, representing the endless journey and the love for the road that defines a true "road scholar."