Ricky Van Shelton – Keep It Between The Lines, is a song written by Russell Smith and Kathy Louvin, and recorded by American country music singer Ricky Van Shelton. It was released in July 1991 as the second single from his fourth studio album Backroads, and was the tenth and final No. 1 single of his career.

The music video was directed and produced by Deaton Flanigen and premiered in mid-1991.

Ricky Van Shelton – Keep It Between The Lines
From the album Backroads
B-side «Weekend World»
Released July 11, 1991
Recorded December 20, 1990
Genre Country
Length 3:48
Label Columbia Nashville(38-73956)
Songwriter(s) Russell Smith Kathy Louvin
Producer(s) Steve Buckingham

COUNTRYPEDIA

Ricky Van Shelton – Keep It Between The Lines Lyrics

He was sitting beside me in the passenger seat
As I looked through the windshield at the quiet little street
He was smiling so proud as he gave me the key
But inside I knew he was as nervous as me

And I said daddy oh daddy are you sure I know how
Are you sure that I’m ready to drive this car now
He said I’m right here beside you and you’re gonna do fine
All you gotta do is keep it between the lines

Cause it’s a long narrow road
Only the good Lord knows where it leads in the end but you got to begin
So keep your hands on the wheel believe in the things that are real
Just take your time and keep it between the lines

I was sitting in my chair and sneaking a look at him
Lying on the floor with his coloring book
Then he caught me watching and he climbed on my knee
He said daddy oh daddy would you do one with me

Then I hugged him so tightly as we turned the page
Said I haven’t done this since I was your age
He said I’m right here beside you and you’re gonna do fine
Daddy all you gotta do is keep it between the lines

So we finished the picture and I put him to bed
Got down on my knees and I bowed my head
And I said father oh father I feel so alone
Are you sure I can raise him with his mommy gone

Then the answer came back so gentle and low
And words of my daddy from so long ago
Said I’m right here beside you and you’re gonna do fine
All you gotta do is keep it between the lines

So keep your hands on the wheel believe in the things that are real
Take your time and keep it between the lines
Just take your time and keep it between the lines
Just take your time and keep it between the lines

GENIUS