About the song
Kenny Rogers, the iconic country music legend, has a rich discography filled with timeless classics. One such gem is the powerful ballad “Coward of the County,” released in 1979 as part of his multi-platinum album “Kenny.” This song is more than just a country hit; it’s a tale of courage, redemption, and standing up for what’s right.
Penned by Larry Cansler, “Coward of the County” tells the story of a man who is often seen as weak and timid. However, when pushed to his limits, he finds the strength to defend himself and those he loves. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a small-town community and the pressures faced by its inhabitants.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors, including Rogers’ powerful vocals, the catchy melody, and the relatable theme of overcoming adversity. “Coward of the County” resonated deeply with audiences, reaching number one on the Billboard Country chart and number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s impact extended beyond the charts. It became an anthem for those who felt like underdogs, inspiring listeners to find their own inner strength. The music video, which featured Rogers performing in a small-town setting, further enhanced the song’s appeal.
“Coward of the County” is more than just a country song; it’s a timeless tale of courage and redemption. The song’s message of standing up for what’s right continues to resonate with audiences today. It’s a testament to Kenny Rogers’ ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level and create music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.”
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