About the song
Alan Jackson’s “Small Town Southern Man” is a heartfelt tribute to the values and lifestyle of rural Southern America, encapsulated through the story of a hardworking, dedicated man. Released in 2007 as the lead single from his album *Good Time*, the song quickly resonated with listeners for its authentic portrayal of Southern life and its touching narrative.
Jackson wrote “Small Town Southern Man” himself, drawing from his own experiences and observations to create a song that feels both personal and universally relatable. The track’s success is evident in its performance on the charts, where it reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in early 2008. This achievement further cemented Jackson’s status as a leading figure in country music, known for his ability to tell compelling stories through his songs.
The lyrics of “Small Town Southern Man” paint a vivid picture of a man who embodies the virtues of hard work, family dedication, and strong moral values. The song traces his life’s journey from his humble beginnings to his enduring legacy, highlighting his devotion to his family and his unwavering commitment to living an honest, simple life. Jackson’s smooth vocals and the song’s traditional country instrumentation combine to create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that pays homage to the small-town Southern experience.
In addition to its lyrical depth, “Small Town Southern Man” stands out for its musical arrangement, featuring classic country elements like steel guitar and fiddle. These instrumental touches enhance the song’s authenticity and emotional impact, making it a memorable listening experience for fans of traditional country music.
The music video for “Small Town Southern Man” complements the song’s narrative by showcasing scenes of rural life, family gatherings, and the everyday moments that define the Southern way of life. This visual storytelling adds an extra layer of depth to the song, making it even more resonant for viewers who share similar experiences or values.
In summary, “Small Town Southern Man” is a poignant and powerful tribute to the men and women who embody the spirit of the rural South. Alan Jackson’s heartfelt delivery and keen songwriting shine through in this track, making it a standout in his extensive catalog. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Jackson or new to his music, “Small Town Southern Man” is sure to touch your heart and remind you of the timeless values that define country living.
Video
Lyrics
Born the middle son of a farmer
And a small town Southern man
Like his daddy’s daddy before him
Brought up workin’ on the land
Fell in love with a small town woman
And they married up and settled down
Natural way of life if you’re lucky
For a small town Southern man
First there came four pretty daughters
For this small town Southern man
Then a few years later came another
A boy, he wasn’t planned
Seven people livin’ all together
In a house built with his own hands
Little words with love and understandin’
From a small town Southern man
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Was always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones you leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man
Callous hands told the story
For this small town Southern man
He gave it all to keep it all together
And keep his family on his land
Like his daddy, years wore out his body
Made it hard just to walk and stand
You can break the back
But you can’t break the spirit
Of a small town Southern man
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Was always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones you leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man
Finally death came callin’
For this small town Southern man
He said it’s alright ’cause I see angels
And they got me by the hand
Don’t you cry, and don’t you worry
I’m blessed, and I know I am
‘Cause God has a place in Heaven
For a small town Southern man
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Was always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones you leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man