About the song
“A Country Boy Can Survive” is a timeless classic performed by the legendary Hank Williams, Jr. Released in January 1982 as a single from his album *The Pressure Is On*, this song resonates deeply with fans of country music for its authentic portrayal of rural resilience and independence. Written by Hank Williams, Jr. himself, the song showcases his exceptional talent as both a singer and songwriter, solidifying his place in country music history.
The track struck a chord with many, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. Its success is a testament to its powerful message and the connection it forged with listeners who shared or admired the rural, self-reliant lifestyle it celebrates. “A Country Boy Can Survive” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem for those who live off the land, value hard work, and embrace the simple yet challenging life in the countryside.
Hank Williams, Jr., often known for his boisterous and rebellious style, delivered a heartfelt performance with this song, capturing the spirit of the American country boy. The lyrics tell stories of survival and resourcefulness, painting vivid pictures of fishing, hunting, and farming, activities that are essential to rural life. This authenticity and relatability have ensured that the song remains a favorite among country music enthusiasts even decades after its release.
The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and references in popular culture, further cementing its status as a country music staple. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Hank Williams, Jr. or a newcomer to his music, “A Country Boy Can Survive” stands out as a powerful representation of country living and the indomitable spirit of those who thrive in it.
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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 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