[Verse 1] There's an answer here, if I look hard enough There's a reason why I always reach for the harder stuff It wasn't my daddy's way He was down in the mines all day I know he wanted more than mouths to feed and bills to pay [Chorus] Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole [Verse 2] I ain't cut out for war, unless I know what I'm fighting for And there's nothing here but churches, bars, and grocery stores Ain't much money in the old-time mandolin So I cash my check and I drink 'til I'm on my a** again [Chorus] Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole [Bridge] Remember when we could see the mountain's peak? The sparkle off the amphibole? Like a giant golden eagle's beak Now they say no one wants the coal [Verse 3] I thought about moving away But what would my mama say? I'm all that she has left and I'm with her every day As soon as the sun goes down I find my way to the Mustang Lounge And if you don't sit facing the window You could be in any town [Chorus] Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole Maybe the Cumberland Gap just swallows you whole