About the Song
John Denver, a folk icon known for his anthemic ballads and celebration of nature, captured the hearts of millions with his 1974 song, “Thank God I’m A Country Boy.” This cheerful tune, a staple of Denver’s repertoire, transcends genre, offering a nostalgic look at the simple pleasures of rural life.
Denver, with his signature gentle tenor and optimistic spirit, brings the song’s celebration of the countryside to life. The opening lines, “Well, life on a farm is kinda laid back,” immediately establish a relaxed and carefree atmosphere. The lyrics, penned by Denver himself, paint a picture of a life grounded in nature’s rhythms – rising with the sun, working the land, and finding joy in the simple things.
“Thank God I’m A Country Boy” isn’t just about praising rural living; it’s a gentle contrast to the perceived complexities and pressures of city life. Denver sings of the freedom found in wide-open spaces, the satisfaction of honest labor, and the close-knit bonds of a rural community. Lines like “City folks just don’t understand” playfully tap into this contrast, creating a sense of pride and belonging for those who identify with the country lifestyle.
The song’s appeal extends beyond its lyrical content. Denver’s infectious energy and the use of quintessential country instrumentation – banjo, fiddle, and acoustic guitar – create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The melody, catchy and upbeat, invites listeners to tap their toes and sing along, further emphasizing the song’s joyous spirit.
“Thank God I’m A Country Boy” has become an anthem for those who cherish the values and traditions of rural life. But its message resonates more broadly as well. It’s a reminder of the importance of appreciating the simple things, finding solace in nature, and cherishing the close bonds of community – values that transcend geographical boundaries. Even for those who haven’t experienced country living firsthand, the song’s celebration of authenticity and a slower pace of life offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
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Lyrics: Thank God I’m A Country Boy
Well, life’s on a farm is kinda laid back,
ain’t much an old country boy like me can’t hack.
It’s early to rise, early in the sack thank God I’m a country boy.
Well, a simple kind of life never did me no harm,
raising me a family and working on the farm.
My days are all filled with an easy country charm, thank God I’m a country boy.
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old fiddle.
When the sun’s coming up, I got cakes on the griddle.
And life ain’t nothing but a funny, funny riddle, thank God I’m a country boy.When the work’s all done and the sun’s setting low,
I pull out my fiddle and I rosin up the bow.
The kids are asleep so I keep it kinda low, thank God I’m a country boy.
I’d play Sally Gooding all day if I could,
but the lord and my wife wouldn’t take it very good.
So I fiddle when I can and I work when I should, thank God I’m a country boy.
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old fiddle.
When the sun’s coming up, I got cakes on the griddle.
And life ain’t nothing but a funny, funny riddle, thank God I’m a country boy.I wouldn’t trade my life for diamonds or jewels,
I never was one of them money hungry fools.
I’d rather have my fiddle and my farming tools, thank God I’m a country boy.
Yeah, city folk driving in a black limousine,
a lotta sad people thinking that’s-a mighty keen.
Son, let me tell you now exactly what I mean, thank God I’m a country boy.
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old fiddle.
When the sun’s coming up, I got cakes on the griddle.
And life ain’t nothing but a funny, funny riddle, thank God I’m a country boy.Well, my fiddle was my daddy’s till the day he died,
and he took me by the hand and held me close to his side.
He said, “Live a good life and play my fiddle with pride,
and thank God you’re a country boy.
My Daddy taught me young how to hunt and how to whittle,
he taught me how to work and play a tune on the fiddle.
He taught me how to love and how to give just a little,
thank God I’m a country boy.
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old fiddle.
When the sun’s coming up, I got cakes on the griddle.
And life ain’t nothing but a funny, funny riddle, thank God I’m a country boy.