Introduction
In the early 1980s, as the world grappled with rapid technological changes and urbanization, a song emerged that would resonate deeply with those yearning for simpler, more self-reliant ways of life. “A Country Boy Can Survive” by Hank Williams Jr. is not just a melody; it’s a narrative that champions rural values and rugged individualism in the face of modern challenges.
About The Composition
- Title: A Country Boy Can Survive
- Composer: Hank Williams Jr.
- Premiere Date: January 1982
- Album/Opus/Collection: The album “The Pressure Is On”
- Genre: Country
Background
Released in 1982, during a time of economic downturn and cultural shifts in America, “A Country Boy Can Survive” was penned by Hank Williams Jr. himself. This song emerged as a response to the hardships faced by rural communities, encapsulating feelings of resilience and pride prevalent among those living outside urban centers. Although not initially a chart-topping hit, it has become one of Hank Williams Jr.’s most enduring songs, reflecting its deep connection with listeners who felt represented by its lyrics. The song’s gritty realism and defiant tone resonated with many, securing its place as a staple in Williams’ repertoire and in the heart of American country music.
Musical Style
The musical arrangement of “A Country Boy Can Survive” is quintessentially country, with a slow, deliberate tempo that allows every word to sink in. The song utilizes traditional country instruments such as acoustic guitar, harmonica, and fiddle, which underscore its rustic theme. Williams’ voice, with its distinctive drawl, carries a weight that emphasizes the song’s message of survival and independence. The deliberate pacing and minimalist instrumentation allow the lyrics to stand forefront, making every line a poignant reminder of the country lifestyle’s enduring nature.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “A Country Boy Can Survive” tell stories of self-sufficiency, hunting, and interpersonal bonds that define rural life. The refrain, “Because you can’t starve us out and you can’t make us run, ’cause we’re them old boys raised on shotgun,” serves as a rallying cry for rural resilience. These lyrics do not just narrate; they celebrate the ability to live off the land, the importance of community, and the deep-seated identity that comes from rural living.
Performance History
While it never reached the top of the charts, “A Country Boy Can Survive” has been a consistent favorite in concerts, especially in regions where its themes strike a resonant chord. Its performance history is marked by a strong connection with the audience, often eliciting a sing-along response, underscoring its cultural significance and emotional impact.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extends beyond music, touching aspects of cultural identity and political discourse. It has been adopted by various political campaigns, used in protests, and covered by numerous artists, each time reaffirming its message of enduring rural values. Its lyrical themes of self-reliance and rural pride have made it an anthem for those who feel overlooked by modern societal shifts.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “A Country Boy Can Survive” continues to be a cultural touchstone for discussions about rural identity and resilience. Its enduring popularity underscores its relevance and impact, proving that the themes of survival and independence are as resonant today as they were in the 1980s.
Conclusion
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is more than a song; it’s an enduring narrative of resilience that continues to inspire and resonate with listeners. It invites us to appreciate the simple yet profound life lessons drawn from the rural experience. For those looking to explore this piece further, listening to the original album version or live performances by Hank Williams Jr. offers the most authentic experience. Through these renditions, one can truly grasp the song’s raw power and its unyielding celebration of a way of life that refuses to be silenced by modernity.
Video
Lyrics
The preacher man says it’s the end of time
And the Mississippi River, she’s a-goin’ dry
The interest is up and the stock market’s down
And you only get mugged if you go downtown
I live back in the woods you see
My woman and the kids and the dogs and me
I got a shotgun, a rifle and a four-wheel drive
And a country boy can survive
Country folks can survive
I can plow a field all day long
I can catch catfish from dusk ’til dawn (Yeah)
We make our own whiskey and our own smoke too
Ain’t too many things these old boys can’t do
We grow good-ole tomatoes and homemade wine
And a country boy can survive
Country folks can survive
Because you can’t starve us out and you can’t make us run
‘Cause we’re them old boys raised on shotguns
We say grace, and we say ma’am
If you ain’t into that, we don’t give a damn
We came from the West Virginia coal mines
And the Rocky Mountains, and the western skies
And we can skin a buck, we can run a trot line
And a country boy can survive
Country folks can survive
I had a good friend in New York City
He never called me by my name, just Hillbilly
My grandpa taught me how to live off the land
And his taught him to be a businessman
He used to send me pictures of the Broadway nights
And I’d send him some homemade wine
But he was killed by a man with a switchblade knife
For 43 dollars, my friend lost his life
I’d love to spit some Beech-Nut in that dude’s eyes
And shoot him with my old .45
‘Cause a country boy can survive
Country folks can survive
‘Cause you can’t starve us out and you can’t make us run
‘Cause we’re them old boys raised on shotguns
We say grace, and we say ma’am
If you ain’t into that, we don’t give a damn
We’re from North California and South Alabam’
And little towns all around this land
And we can skin a buck, and run a trotline
And a country boy can survive
Country folks can survive
A country boy can survive
Country folks can survive