7. Jerry Reed Wrote “Eastbound And Down” In Mere Hours
When it came time to put the soundtrack together, Needham knew that it needed a theme song. Wanting to utilize Reed’s talent as a country music singer and songwriter, Needham asked him if he could write the movie’s theme.
Reed was happy to oblige, and came back to Needham in a matter of hours with the song that became “East Bound and Down.”
Acoustic guitar in tow, Reed started playing “East Bound and Down” for Needham, who was blown away by what he heard. He stopped Reed in the middle of his performance, making Reed think that Needham hated the song. He even offered to re-write the whole thing!
Needham’s response was priceless. “If you change one note, I’ll kill you!” he said. Reed didn’t change a thing, and “East Bound and Down” became his signature song.
Which of these seven facts surprised you the most about Smokey and the Bandit? Let us know why you love the film down in the comments!
