Sammy Kershaw – Takin’ the Long Way Home

About The Song

In 1996 Sammy Kershaw released the album *Politics, Religion and Her* and included a reflective mid-tempo track called “Takin’ the Long Way Home.” While it wasn’t released as a major single, the song has remained a quiet favorite among fans for its thoughtful take on life’s journey and the value of slowing down. Kershaw, known for blending traditional country storytelling with a modern edge, used the track to explore the idea of savoring the ride rather than rushing straight to the destination.

The lyrics paint a picture of someone deliberately choosing the scenic route — both literally and metaphorically. Whether it’s after a long day, a night out, or simply through the broader path of life, the narrator finds comfort in taking extra time, letting the road stretch out, and giving himself space to think, feel, and breathe. There’s no heavy drama or sweeping resolution, just a gentle acknowledgment that sometimes the longer path is the one that feels most honest. Kershaw’s warm, slightly gritty vocal delivery adds a layer of lived-in authenticity that makes the sentiment feel personal rather than preachy.

By the mid-1990s Kershaw had already established himself as one of country music’s most consistent traditional-leaning artists. His debut album *Don’t Go Near the Water* (1991) and the follow-up *Haunted Heart* (1993) had produced multiple top-ten hits and earned him a reputation for honest, rootsy songwriting. *Politics, Religion and Her* continued that thread while allowing room for more introspective material. “Takin’ the Long Way Home” fit naturally into that mix — a song that rewarded listeners who appreciated thoughtful pacing over high-energy hooks.

The track also reflected a broader theme in Kershaw’s work: the value of ordinary moments and the quiet wisdom that comes from not always rushing forward. While many country songs of the era leaned into upbeat party anthems or dramatic heartbreak, this one offered a slower, more contemplative alternative. It spoke to anyone who had ever felt the pull to linger a little longer — whether on a literal drive or in a season of life — before facing whatever came next.

What has kept “Takin’ the Long Way Home” resonant is its universal appeal. The idea of choosing the scenic route, both literally and figuratively, resonates with listeners who value presence over speed. Kershaw’s straightforward delivery makes the message feel accessible and grounded, turning a simple concept into something quietly profound. In a career built on blending classic country values with contemporary accessibility, this track stands as a gentle reminder that sometimes the best part of the journey is the time you take to notice it.

Decades later the song remains one of the most understated yet meaningful entries in Kershaw’s catalog. It doesn’t demand attention the way some of his bigger hits do, but it rewards repeated listening with its steady wisdom and its clear-eyed appreciation for the beauty of taking things slow. In a genre often filled with high-energy anthems, this quiet reflection on the long way home continues to offer comfort to anyone who’s ever needed a little extra time before arriving at wherever life is taking them next.

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Lyric

There’s a place of the edge of town
Where everybody hangs around
Watchin’ the sun go down until it’s gone

Sometimes I drop in
In fact more than now and then
Lately I’ve been takin’ the long way home

Sometimes she still holds me tight
And tells me everythin’s alright
Even though I know she is already moved on

Here I am my friend
Where I seen the wind up in the end
And once again I’m takin’ the long way home

It’s a long way, long way from here to there
Gettin’ longer everyday but she don’t care

There’s really nothin’ for me here
But I guess I’ll have another beer
And walk on over there and play one more song

it will be time for me to go
Where I’m going I don’t know
I just know I’m takin’ the long way home

It’s a long way, long way from here to there
Getting’ longer everyday, oh, but she don’t care

Still sittin’ here my friend
I knew I’d be here till the end
‘Cause once again I’m takin’ the long way home
‘Cause once again I’m takin’ the long way home