About the song
John Denver, one of the most beloved figures in American folk and country music, delivered a lively and heartfelt performance of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” in his “Around the World Live” DVD. This song, with its infectious energy and celebration of rural life, perfectly encapsulates Denver’s musical charm and his deep connection to the simpler, joyful aspects of living close to nature.
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” was originally written by John Martin Sommers, a member of Denver’s band, and released on Denver’s 1974 album “Back Home Again.” The song quickly became a fan favorite, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1975. Its success was fueled by its upbeat tempo, catchy fiddle, and banjo-driven melody, combined with Denver’s enthusiastic and sincere delivery.
In the “Around the World Live” DVD, Denver’s performance of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” showcases his talent for engaging live audiences. The DVD, a compilation of various concerts from around the globe, captures Denver’s warm stage presence and his ability to connect with fans through his music. During this performance, Denver’s joy is palpable as he sings about the simple pleasures of country life, such as working on the farm, playing the fiddle, and spending time with family.
Denver’s appeal lies in his genuine appreciation for the natural world and rural living, themes that resonate deeply with older audiences who may share similar values or have fond memories of their own country experiences. His music often evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding listeners of the beauty and contentment found in a life connected to the land.
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is not just a song; it’s a celebration of a lifestyle that values hard work, community, and the simple joys of life. Denver’s rendition in the “Around the World Live” DVD is a testament to his enduring legacy as a musician who brought happiness and a sense of peace to his listeners. His cheerful spirit and the infectious energy of the song invite everyone to celebrate the contentment found in the countryside.
For those who appreciate the timeless messages in folk and country music, John Denver’s performance of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a delightful reminder of the joy and fulfillment that come from embracing a simpler way of life. It stands as one of the highlights of Denver’s career and continues to bring smiles to audiences, old and new, 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!