Introduction
When I first heard “Coward of the County,” I was struck by the profound narrative woven into the song. It’s a tale that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever faced a difficult decision, where the choice between peace and confrontation defines the very essence of one’s character. Kenny Rogers, with his warm, storytelling voice, brings to life a narrative that is both timeless and deeply personal.
About The Composition
- Title: Coward of the County
- Composer: Roger Bowling, Billy Edd Wheeler
- Premiere Date: November 12, 1979
- Album/Opus/Collection: Kenny
- Genre: Country
Background
“Coward of the County” is a compelling narrative song written by Roger Bowling and Billy Edd Wheeler, performed by the legendary Kenny Rogers. Released in November 1979 as a part of Rogers’ album Kenny, this song tells the story of a young man named Tommy, who lives under the shadow of his father’s last words—urging him to walk away from trouble if he can. The song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of Rogers’ signature songs.
The inspiration for the song stems from the classic country tradition of storytelling, where lyrics serve as a window into the lives of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. “Coward of the County” was both a critical and commercial success, praised for its narrative depth and Rogers’ emotive delivery. It remains a standout track in Kenny Rogers’ illustrious career, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions through song.
Musical Style
Musically, “Coward of the County” is characterized by its straightforward country instrumentation, which includes acoustic guitar, subtle strings, and gentle percussion. The song follows a traditional verse-chorus structure, allowing the story to unfold gradually, with each verse adding layers to Tommy’s tale. The instrumentation is kept simple, ensuring that the focus remains on the lyrics and the story they tell.
The arrangement perfectly complements the narrative, with a melody that is both haunting and comforting. The song’s moderate tempo and Rogers’ restrained yet powerful vocal delivery make it an engaging listen, drawing the audience into Tommy’s world and his moral dilemma.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Coward of the County” tell a story of redemption and the struggle between upholding a promise and confronting injustice. The song’s protagonist, Tommy, has lived his life avoiding conflict, honoring his father’s dying wish to “walk away from trouble if you can.” However, when his beloved Becky is assaulted by local bullies, Tommy is faced with a choice: continue living as a “coward” or stand up for what’s right. The narrative unfolds with a gripping intensity, leading to Tommy’s ultimate decision to confront the bullies, thus redefining his identity and legacy.
The themes of the song—honor, love, and the difficult choices we must make—are universal, resonating with listeners across different backgrounds and cultures. The lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling, with each line building on the last to create a powerful narrative arc.
Performance History
“Coward of the County” has been performed countless times by Kenny Rogers, both in concerts and on television. Its popularity soared soon after its release, and it became one of Rogers’ most requested songs during live performances. The song’s vivid storytelling and emotional depth made it a favorite among fans, ensuring its place in the annals of country music history.
Over the years, “Coward of the County” has been covered by various artists and has appeared in multiple media, including a television movie inspired by the song’s narrative. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful message and Rogers’ masterful delivery.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Coward of the County” extends beyond the realm of country music. The song’s narrative has been referenced in various forms of media, and its themes of justice and redemption have struck a chord with audiences around the world. The accompanying television movie, aired in 1981, further cemented the song’s place in popular culture, bringing its story to an even wider audience.
The song’s influence can be seen in how it continues to be a touchstone for discussions about moral choices and the complexities of human nature. It has inspired countless listeners to reflect on their own lives and the choices they must make.
Legacy
“Coward of the County” remains one of Kenny Rogers’ most iconic songs, a testament to his ability to tell a story through music. The song’s legacy is one of timeless appeal, continuing to resonate with new generations of listeners who find themselves drawn to its powerful narrative and moral lessons.
Even today, “Coward of the County” is celebrated as a classic, its themes of honor, redemption, and the struggle between right and wrong as relevant as ever. It stands as a powerful reminder of the impact that music can have on our understanding of the human condition.
Conclusion
“Coward of the County” is more than just a song; it’s a story that challenges us to think about the choices we make and the legacy we leave behind. Kenny Rogers’ masterful storytelling and the song’s haunting melody combine to create an unforgettable piece of music that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world. If you haven’t experienced this classic yet, I encourage you to give it a listen—you might find that Tommy’s story resonates with your own life in unexpected ways
Video
Lyrics
Everyone considered him the coward of the county
He’d never stood one single time to prove the county wrong
His mama named him Tommy, but folks just called him Yellow
But something always told me, they were reading Tommy wrong
He was only ten years old when his daddy died in prison
I looked after Tommy, ’cause he was my brother’s son
I still recall the final words my brother said to Tommy
“Son, my life is over, but yours has just begun”
“Promise me, son, not to do the things I’ve done
Walk away from trouble if you can
Now it won’t mean you’re weak if you turn the other cheek
I hope you’re old enough to understand
Son, you don’t have to fight to be a man”
There’s someone for everyone and Tommy’s love was Becky
In her arms, he didn’t have to prove he was a man
One day while he was working, the Gatlin boys came calling
They took turns at Becky an’ there was three of them
Tommy opened up the door and saw Becky crying
The torn dress, the shattered look was more than he could stand
He reached above the fireplace and took down his daddy’s picture
As his tears fell on his daddy’s face, he heard these words again
“Promise me, Son, not to do the things I’ve done
Walk away from trouble if you can
Now it won’t mean you’re weak if you turn the other cheek
I hope you’re old enough to understand
Son, you don’t have to fight to be a man”
The Gatlin boys just laughed at him when he walked into the bar room
One of them got up and met him half way cross the floor
When Tommy turned around they said, “Hey look! Old Yellow’s leaving”
But you could’ve heard a pin drop when Tommy stopped and locked the door
Twenty years of crawling was bottled up inside him
He wasn’t holding nothing back, he let ’em have it all
When Tommy left the bar room, not a Gatlin boy was standing
He said, “This one’s for Becky”, as he watched the last one fall
And I heard him say
“I promised you, Dad, not to do the things you’ve done
I walk away from trouble when I can
Now please don’t think I’m weak, I didn’t turn the other cheek
And Papa, I should hope you understand
Sometimes you gotta fight when you’re a man”
Everyone considered him the coward of the county