About the Song
John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy”: A Celebration of Rural Life
For many of us, John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” evokes a sense of nostalgia and a yearning for simpler times. Released in 1974, the song captured the hearts of millions with its heartfelt lyrics and uplifting melody. It became an anthem for those who cherished the values and lifestyle of rural America, and it continues to resonate with listeners of all ages today.
John Denver, with his gentle voice and warm stage presence, was the perfect artist to deliver such a message. He embodied the spirit of the song, having grown up in a small town in Arizona and always retaining a deep connection to the natural world. In “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” he expresses his gratitude for the simple pleasures of country life: the fresh air, wide open spaces, and the strong sense of community.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of rural life, from the sunrise over the fields to the stars twinkling in the night sky. Denver sings about the hard work and simple joys of farming, the close-knit relationships with neighbors, and the peace found in nature. He contrasts this with the hustle and bustle of city life, emphasizing the values of community, self-reliance, and connection to the land.
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of identity and a celebration of a way of life. It speaks to the enduring appeal of rural America and its values. While the world around us may change rapidly, the song’s message of simplicity, connection, and appreciation for nature remains timeless.
Whether you grew up in the country or simply long for its peace and quiet, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” has something to offer everyone. It’s a song that reminds us of what’s truly important in life and encourages us to cherish the simple joys that often surround us. So, sit back, close your eyes, and allow yourself to be transported to a simpler time, where the air is clean, the skies are bright, and the spirit is free.
Lyrics
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.