About the song
“A Country Boy Can Survive,” performed by the legendary Hank Williams, Jr., is a quintessential anthem of resilience and independence in country music. Released in 1982, this song quickly became one of Williams’ most iconic tracks, capturing the essence of his rugged and self-reliant persona.
Written by Hank Williams, Jr. himself, along with his co-writer, Earl “Peanutt” Montgomery, the song is featured on the album “The Pressure Is On.” This album marked a significant moment in Williams’ career, solidifying his reputation as a powerhouse in the country music scene.
The song’s lyrics convey a powerful message about self-sufficiency and the enduring spirit of the rural American lifestyle. Through its narrative, Williams speaks to the values of hard work, resourcefulness, and determination. The song resonated deeply with audiences who saw it as a reflection of their own experiences and values.
“A Country Boy Can Survive” achieved notable success on the country charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This success was a testament to both the song’s wide appeal and the strong connection it established with listeners. Its popularity was further bolstered by its memorable chorus and Williams’ distinctive delivery, which combined to create a song that has remained a staple in country music.
Hank Williams, Jr.’s performance in “A Country Boy Can Survive” is characterized by its gritty authenticity and heartfelt conviction. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to speak to the heart of the American spirit, celebrating the strength and resilience of those who live close to the land.
In summary, “A Country Boy Can Survive” is a powerful declaration of independence and self-reliance. It stands as a testament to Hank Williams, Jr.’s skill in capturing the essence of country life and remains a beloved classic in the genre, continuing to inspire and resonate with listeners to this day.
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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