About the song
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a timeless classic that has been delighting music lovers for decades. Written by John Martin Sommers and recorded by the legendary American singer/songwriter John Denver, this iconic song has become an anthem for country music enthusiasts around the world. First released in 1974 on Denver’s album “Back Home Again,” the song quickly gained popularity and became a staple of his live performances.
One of the most notable aspects of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is its chart-topping success. The live version of the song, recorded on August 26, 1974, at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles, was included on Denver’s 1975 album “An Evening with John Denver” and was released as a single. The song’s popularity soared, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Billboard Hot 100 charts. This remarkable achievement made “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” one of the first songs to top both charts simultaneously, a feat that was repeated by only a handful of artists in the 1970s.
The song’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Denver’s distinctive vocals. The song’s message of gratitude and appreciation for the simple things in life resonated with listeners of all ages, making it a beloved classic that continues to be enjoyed by new generations of music fans.
In addition to its chart success, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” also became the name of a variety special show hosted by John Denver in 1977. This special featured a mix of music, comedy, and storytelling, showcasing Denver’s versatility as a performer and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
In conclusion, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a country music masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Its chart-topping success, memorable melody, and relatable lyrics have made it a beloved classic that continues to be enjoyed by music fans around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Clap your hands!
Well, life on the 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
A-raisin’ me a family and workin’ 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 comin’ up, I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny, funny riddle
Thank God I’m a country boy
When the work’s all done and the sun’s settin’ low
I pull out my fiddle and I rosin up the bow
Kids are asleep so I keep it kinda low
And thank God I’m a country boy
I’d play “Sally Goodin” all day if I could
But the Lord and my wife wouldn’t take it very good
So I fiddle when I can, 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 comin’ up, I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny, funny riddle
Thank God I’m a country boy, woohoo!
Well, 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 farmin’ tools
Thank God I’m a country boy
Yeah, city folk drivin’ in a black limousine
A lotta sad people thinkin’ that’s 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 comin’ up, I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny, funny riddle
Thank God I’m a country boy, yes sir!
Well, my fiddle was my daddy’s ’til the day he died
And he took me by the hand, held me close to his side
Said, “Live a good life, play the fiddle with pride
And thank God you’re a country boy”
My daddy taught me young how to hunt and how to whittle
Taught me how to work and play a tune on the fiddle
Taught me how to love and how to give just a little
And thank God I’m a country boy
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up, I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny, funny riddle
Whew! Thank God I’m a country boy, yeah!
John Summers played the fiddle
And he wrote that song!