About the song
“John Denver – Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a lively and spirited song that celebrates the joys and simplicity of rural life. Written by John Martin Sommers, a guitarist and fiddler in Denver’s backing band, this track quickly became one of John Denver’s signature songs. It was first released on his 1974 album “Back Home Again” and became even more popular with the release of a live version on the 1975 album “An Evening with John Denver.”
The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy capture the essence of country living, with Denver’s enthusiastic performance adding to its charm. The lyrics reflect a heartfelt appreciation for the simple pleasures of country life, such as hard work, family, and the great outdoors. Lines like “Well, life on the farm is kinda laid back” and “I’d play Sally Goodin all day if I could” evoke a sense of nostalgia and contentment, resonating deeply with listeners who cherish those same values.
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1975. Its widespread appeal also led it to become a staple at Denver’s concerts, where its high energy and audience participation made it a fan favorite.
John Denver’s ability to convey joy and gratitude through his music is evident in this song. His rich, warm voice combined with the lively instrumentation, including fiddles and banjos, creates a vibrant and engaging listening experience. The song’s celebration of rural life and its upbeat, feel-good vibe have ensured its lasting popularity.
For many older listeners, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is a nostalgic reminder of the 1970s, a time when country music was gaining widespread appeal and Denver was at the peak of his career. The song’s timeless message of appreciating the simple, wholesome aspects of life continues to resonate, making it a beloved classic in Denver’s extensive catalog.
Whether you are a lifelong fan of John Denver or discovering his music for the first time, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” offers an infectious and joyous celebration of country living. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Denver’s talent and the universal themes of joy and gratitude that he so beautifully captures in his music.
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Lyrics
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
I thank God I’m a country boy
Well a simple kinda 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 an ol’ fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up I got cakes on the griddle
And 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 settlin’ 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 Goodin 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 an ol’ 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, woo
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 a mighty keen
Well, son, let me tell ya now exactly what I mean
I thank God I’m a country boy
Well I got me a fine wife I got me an ol’ fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up I got cakes on the griddle
And life ain’t nothin’ but a funny funny riddle
Thank God I’m a country boy
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 my fiddle with pride
And thank God you’re a country boy”
Well, my daddy taught me young how to hunt and how to whittle
Taught me how to work to play a tune on the fiddle
He 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 an ol’ fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny funny riddle
Woo, thank God I’m a country boy, yes