“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the sweeping expanse of rural America, where the heartbeat of the land pulses strong, the song “A Country Boy Can Survive” resonates as a testament to resilience and grit. Crafted by Hank Williams Jr., this song has woven itself into the fabric of country music as an anthem of enduring strength.
About The Composition
- Title: A Country Boy Can Survive
- Composer: Hank Williams Jr.
- Premiere Date: January 1982
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Pressure Is On
- Genre: Country
Background:
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is a poignant reflection of rural life, penned by Hank Williams Jr. during a period of personal recovery after a near-fatal accident. This song not only reflects Hank’s survival spirit but also captures the essence of rural America’s resilience. Initially released during the early ’80s, a time of economic struggle, the song became a symbol of personal and communal endurance. Its reception was warm, securing a place in the hearts of many and becoming a staple in Williams’ discography.
Musical Style
The song employs traditional country instrumentation, including acoustic guitar, harmonica, and fiddle, creating a sound that is both rustic and heartwarming. Its structure is straightforward yet impactful, with a chorus that emphasizes self-sufficiency and resilience. These elements collectively underscore the thematic core of survival and independence.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “A Country Boy Can Survive” tell stories of hunting, fishing, and homemade wine, illustrating a self-sufficient lifestyle that is deeply connected to nature. The chorus, “Because you can’t starve us out and you can’t make us run,” serves as a powerful declaration of resilience, binding the song’s themes to its musical expression.
Performance History
Since its release, the song has seen numerous covers and has been a favorite in live performances, especially in rural settings where its message finds a natural home. Its enduring popularity highlights its significance in the country music genre.
Cultural Impact
The song has transcended its initial release, becoming an emblem of cultural identity for rural Americans. It has been featured in various media and continues to be a source of inspiration and comfort to those who share the sentiments it expresses.
Legacy
Decades later, “A Country Boy Can Survive” remains a cultural touchstone, embodying the timeless spirit of the American countryside. Its message of endurance and independence continues to inspire new generations of country musicians and fans alike.
Conclusion
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is more than just a song; it is a narrative of resilience that resonates across time and culture. I encourage all to delve into its rich layers and experience the power of its music and lyrics, perhaps through a live performance or a classic recording by Hank Williams Jr. himself.
Video
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 trot line
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