About the song
Cal Smith’s song “Country Bumpkin” is a beloved classic that captures the essence of traditional country music. Released in 1974, this song showcases Smith’s distinctive style and offers a heartfelt look at life in rural America.
“Country Bumpkin” tells the story of a man who has lived a simple life in the countryside. The song paints a vivid picture of his humble existence and his deep connection to his rural roots. Through its lyrics, listeners are introduced to a character who finds joy in the simple things and who takes pride in his straightforward way of life. Smith’s warm, engaging voice brings authenticity to the story, making it easy for audiences to relate to the experiences shared.
The charm of “Country Bumpkin” lies in its genuine portrayal of rural life. The lyrics highlight the contrast between the man’s modest lifestyle and the more glamorous city life, illustrating a sense of contentment with one’s place in the world. The melody is catchy and uplifting, perfectly complementing the song’s theme and making it memorable.
Cal Smith’s performance is both heartfelt and sincere, capturing the spirit of the song and resonating with listeners. The song’s ability to reflect the values of country living with a sense of pride and affection has made it a timeless piece in the genre.
For those who appreciate classic country music, “Country Bumpkin” is a delightful reminder of the simplicity and authenticity that define the genre. Whether you are revisiting this classic or hearing it for the first time, Cal Smith’s “Country Bumpkin” offers a warm and nostalgic look at life in the countryside.
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Lyrics
He walked into the bar
And parked his lanky frame upon a tall barstool
And with a long, soft southern drawl
Said, “I’ll just have a glass of anything that’s cool”
A barroom girl with hard and knowing eyes
Slowly looked him up and down
And she thought, “I wonder how on earth
That country bumpkin found his way to town”
She said, “Hello, country bumpkin
How’s the frost out on the pumpkin?
I’ve seen some sights, but, man, you’re something
Where’d you come from, country bumpkin?”
It was just a short year later
In a bed of joy-filled tears, yet death-like pain
And to this wondrous world of many wonders
One more wonder came
That same woman’s face was wrapped up
In a raptured look of love and tenderness
As she marveled at the soft and warm
And cuddly boy-child feeding at her breast
And she said, “Hello, country bumpkin
Fresh as frost out on the pumpkin
I’ve seen some sights, but, babe, you’re something
Mama loves her country bumpkin”
40 years of hard work later
In a simple, quiet and peaceful country place
The heavy hand of time had not erased
The raptured wonder from the woman’s face
She was lying on her death-bed
Knowing fully well her race was nearly run
But she softly smiled and looked into
The sad eyes of her husband and her son
And she said, “So long, country bumpkin
The frost is gone now from the pumpkin
I’ve seen some sights and life’s been something
See ya later, country bumpkin”
She said, “So long, country bumpkin
The frost is gone now from the pumpkin
I’ve seen some sights and life’s been something
See ya later, country bumpkin”