Gretchen Wilson's song "Bad Company" is a cover of the classic rock band, Bad Company's hit song from 1974. The lyrics tell the story of a protagonist who is part of a rebellious group known as Bad Company. The song talks about how this individual was born with a six-gun (referring to a revolver) in their hand, suggesting a life surrounded by violence and conflict. They are always on the run, with their destiny being the rising sun, indicating that they are constantly moving and living a relentless lifestyle. The protagonist embraces their role in Bad Company, a group of rebel souls and deserters. They chose to wield a gun instead of seeking peace and threw away the sun, symbolizing a rejection of a peaceful and ordinary life. The towns they visit recognize them by the sound of their six-guns, becoming infamous for their actions. The chorus emphasizes the protagonist's self-acknowledgment as a member of Bad Company. They cannot deny their connection to this rebellious group and state that they will remain in Bad Company until the day they die. The repetition of this phrase highlights their unwavering commitment to their chosen path. The bridge of the song explores the consequences of their lifestyle. The protagonist is aware that their actions may label them as thieves, but they embrace their role as part of Bad Company. They play dirty for dirty, indicating that they are willing to engage in unscrupulous behavior to counteract those who have double-crossed them. Overall, Gretchen Wilson's cover of "Bad Company" maintains the original song's themes and tells the story of an individual trapped in a life of rebellion, violence, and a relentless pursuit of their own destiny as a member of Bad Company.
