Introduction
Few voices in country music carry the gravity and sincerity of Trace Adkins, and in Still a Soldier, he channels that strength into one of his most heartfelt and quietly powerful songs. Released in 2017 as part of his album Something’s Going On, the track stands as a moving tribute to the veterans who return home—not just to civilian life, but to the ongoing, often invisible commitment they carry long after the uniform comes off. The official video deepens the message, showing everyday moments that reflect a service member’s continued sense of identity, duty, and pride.
Still a Soldier is not a loud, flag-waving anthem—it’s something more intimate, more grounded. The lyrics tell the story of a man who’s no longer on the battlefield but still lives with the discipline, perspective, and brotherhood that military life instilled in him. He may be mowing the lawn, taking the kids to school, or watching the game with friends, but underneath it all, he’s still a soldier. That quiet declaration is the heart of the song.
Adkins delivers the lyrics with a deep, respectful tone—never overly sentimental, but always full of conviction. His voice brings weight to every word, making it clear that this isn’t just a tribute from afar; it’s a recognition, a handshake in song form, meant to acknowledge what many veterans live with daily. The phrasing is unhurried, allowing the listener to absorb not just the story, but the emotion behind it.
The official video for Still a Soldier builds on that narrative beautifully. We see scenes of a veteran adjusting to life at home—helping his daughter with schoolwork, putting in hours at work, sharing quiet meals with his family—ordinary moments that feel extraordinary when viewed through the lens of what he’s been through. Intercut with brief glimpses of his time in uniform, the video draws a subtle but powerful contrast between the past and present, showing that his sense of service didn’t end with his deployment.
There’s a gentle pride running through the whole production—not boastful, but dignified. The video closes with a reminder that while the visible wounds of war may heal, the internal shift in identity remains. It’s a message that resonates not only with veterans, but with their families, friends, and communities.
Trace Adkins – Still a Soldier is a song of deep empathy. It doesn’t romanticize war or glorify violence. Instead, it honors the individual—the quiet strength, the continued resilience, and the unshakable identity of those who have served. In a time when many tributes can feel generic or overly polished, this one feels personal, real, and respectfully grounded.
For listeners who value sincerity and story-driven songwriting, this track stands as one of Adkins’ finest moments. It’s a musical salute—not just to those who wore the uniform, but to the strength they carry long after the world stops watching.