“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The song “Country State of Mind” taps into the rich tapestry of American country music, echoing the deep-rooted traditions and everyday stories that define this genre. Released in 1986 by Hank Williams Jr., the song stands as a testament to Williams’ ability to connect with the heart of rural America through his music.
About The Composition
- Title: Country State of Mind
- Composer: Hank Williams Jr., co-written with Roger Alan Wade
- Premiere Date: Released on June 9, 1986
- Album/Opus/Collection: Montana Cafe
- Genre: Country
Background
“Country State of Mind” was the first single from the album “Montana Cafe.” The track reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, illustrating its warm reception and the connection it forged with listeners. The song is a reflection of Williams’ style, characterized by a blend of traditional country with a rougher, more personal edge that spoke to the experiences and lifestyles of his audience.
Musical Style
This song is a hallmark of classic country music, featuring the storytelling and vocal expressiveness typical of the genre. The instrumentation is a blend of acoustic guitars, fiddles, and harmonica, which together create a sound that is both rustic and comforting, resonating with the song’s laid-back, reflective lyrics.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Country State of Mind” paint a picture of rural life and a connection to simpler, more grounded values. They delve into themes of contentment and a deep-seated love for the countryside, reflecting a life lived close to nature and away from the hustle of urban settings.
Performance History
Over the years, “Country State of Mind” has remained a popular piece in Hank Williams Jr.’s repertoire, covered by various artists, which underscores its lasting appeal and significance within the genre.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a notable influence on country music, often cited for its authentic representation of country life and values. Its enduring popularity has helped maintain its presence in both radio rotations and live performances, affirming its place in the cultural landscape of American music.
Legacy
“Country State of Mind” continues to be celebrated for its authentic reflection of country music traditions and its resonance with listeners who find a piece of their own experiences within its lyrics. It’s a song that has aged well, retaining relevance in the genre and continuing to touch new generations of country music fans.
Conclusion
“Country State of Mind” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative that captures the essence of a lifestyle embraced by many. Its heartfelt lyrics and classic country sound make it a staple for anyone looking to explore the depth of country music. I encourage listeners to explore not just this track but the entire album “Montana Cafe” to fully appreciate Hank Williams Jr.’s contribution to country music.
Video
Lyrics
That hot, old summer sun
Make you beg for your next breath
So, you best be on the creek bank
Laying in the shade
Chewing on a hickory twig
Pass that bottle, I’ll have me a swig
I ain’t got a lot but I think I got it made
In the shade
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
Catching these fish like they’re going out of style
Drinking this homemade wine
Hey, if the sun don’t come up tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
I bet the old man’s in the kitchen
He’s got my kind of music on his radio
Aah, drinking his beer and
Dialing up the request lines
Mama and old Aunt Joan probably in the
Dining room trying to use the phone
Me, I’m thinking about that girl and later tonight
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
I’m catching these fish like they’re going out of style
I’m drinking this homemade wine
And if the sun don’t come up tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
You know the rednecks and the preppies
They’re in their discos and honky-tonks
Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace
Lord, I know just how they feel
You gotta get out and kick it up your heels
And ain’t it great to be living in the USA
Me, I’m laid up here in a
Country state of mind
Catching these fish like they’re going out of style
Drinking this homemade wine, all the time
If the sun don’t shine tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind