About the song
If you’re a fan of classic country music, chances are you’ve heard the iconic anthem, “A Country Boy Can Survive” by the legendary Hank Williams, Jr. This song, released in 1982, has become a staple in country music and a symbol of rugged individualism and resilience.
Hank Williams, Jr., often referred to as “Bocephus,” has long been known for his powerful vocals and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep level. His music often celebrates the values of rural life, hard work, and self-reliance. “A Country Boy Can Survive” perfectly encapsulates these themes, making it a beloved song among country music fans of all ages.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in the countryside. Williams describes the simple pleasures of fishing, hunting, and spending time with loved ones. But he also acknowledges the challenges that come with rural living, such as economic hardship and natural disasters. Despite these difficulties, the song’s overall message is one of hope and perseverance.
The chorus, “A country boy can survive”, is a powerful declaration of independence and self-sufficiency. It’s a rallying cry for those who have faced adversity and come out on top. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it easy to sing along to, and its message of resilience has resonated with audiences for decades.
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem. It’s a tribute to the hardworking men and women who live in rural areas, and it’s a reminder that no matter what life throws your way, you can overcome any obstacle. If you’re looking for a song that celebrates the American spirit and the beauty of rural life, then this is the song for you.
Key themes and elements explored in this song include:
- Rural lifestyle: The song paints a nostalgic picture of life in the countryside, highlighting the simple pleasures and challenges of rural living.
- Individualism and self-reliance: The lyrics emphasize the importance of being self-sufficient and relying on one’s own abilities.
- Resilience and perseverance: The song’s message is one of hope and perseverance, inspiring listeners to overcome any obstacle.
- Nostalgia: The song evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, connecting with listeners on an emotional level.
Why this song continues to resonate with audiences:
- Timeless message: The themes of hard work, resilience, and the value of rural life are timeless and continue to resonate with people of all ages.
- Catchy melody: The song’s upbeat tempo and memorable melody make it easy to sing along to.
- Powerful lyrics: The lyrics are both evocative and inspiring, painting a vivid picture of life in the countryside.
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. Its powerful message of resilience and self-reliance has made it a beloved anthem for generations of country music fans. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Hank Williams, Jr. or you’re just discovering his music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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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 trotline
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
