About the song
Let’s step back in time and explore the poignant narrative woven by Kenny Rogers in his iconic ballad, “Coward of the County.” Released in 1979 as part of Rogers’ album “Kenny,” this song tells a tale of love, courage, and redemption that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages.
Written by Roger Bowling and Billy Ed Wheeler, “Coward of the County” became an instant classic, capturing the hearts of audiences around the world. Its compelling storyline follows the journey of a young man named Tommy, who chooses the path of peace despite being labeled as the “coward” of his county.
The song’s powerful message of standing up for what is right in the face of adversity struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of the charts. “Coward of the County” reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and also crossed over to the pop charts, further solidifying its status as a timeless hit.
Rogers’ emotive delivery and the song’s stirring melody combine to create a truly unforgettable listening experience. As we journey through Tommy’s story, we are reminded of the strength found in love and the courage it takes to forgive and move forward.
“Coward of the County” continues to captivate audiences decades after its release, its themes of bravery and redemption standing the test of time. So, sit back, relax, and let the evocative sounds of Kenny Rogers’ “Coward of the County” transport you to a world where love conquers fear and compassion triumphs over adversity.
Video
Lyrics
Everyone considered him the coward of the county
He’d never stood one single time to prove the county wrong
His mama named him Tommy, but folks just called him Yellow
But something always told me, they were reading Tommy wrong
He was only ten years old when his daddy died in prison
I looked after Tommy, ’cause he was my brother’s son
I still recall the final words my brother said to Tommy
“Son, my life is over, but yours has just begun”
“Promise me, son, not to do the things I’ve done
Walk away from trouble if you can
Now it won’t mean you’re weak if you turn the other cheek
I hope you’re old enough to understand
Son, you don’t have to fight to be a man”
There’s someone for everyone and Tommy’s love was Becky
In her arms, he didn’t have to prove he was a man
One day while he was working, the Gatlin boys came calling
They took turns at Becky an’ there was three of them
Tommy opened up the door and saw Becky crying
The torn dress, the shattered look was more than he could stand
He reached above the fireplace and took down his daddy’s picture
As his tears fell on his daddy’s face, he heard these words again
“Promise me, Son, not to do the things I’ve done
Walk away from trouble if you can
Now it won’t mean you’re weak if you turn the other cheek
I hope you’re old enough to understand
Son, you don’t have to fight to be a man”
The Gatlin boys just laughed at him when he walked into the bar room
One of them got up and met him half way cross the floor
When Tommy turned around they said, “Hey look! Old Yellow’s leaving”
But you could’ve heard a pin drop when Tommy stopped and locked the door
Twenty years of crawling was bottled up inside him
He wasn’t holding nothing back, he let ’em have it all
When Tommy left the bar room, not a Gatlin boy was standing
He said, “This one’s for Becky”, as he watched the last one fall
And I heard him say
“I promised you, Dad, not to do the things you’ve done
I walk away from trouble when I can
Now please don’t think I’m weak, I didn’t turn the other cheek
And Papa, I should hope you understand
Sometimes you gotta fight when you’re a man”
Everyone considered him the coward of the county