About the song
Mac Davis, the versatile country music singer-songwriter, gifted us with a truly unique and unforgettable tune in 1980: “It’s Hard to Be Humble.” This song, a playful ode to self-deprecation and over-the-top confidence, quickly climbed the charts, becoming an international hit and a staple in country music playlists.
At first glance, the lyrics of “It’s Hard to Be Humble” might seem straightforward, even a bit humorous. Davis, with his signature country twang, paints a picture of a man who’s simply too good at everything he does. From his romantic conquests to his physical prowess, Davis embraces a persona that is both boastful and endearing. Yet, beneath the surface of this seemingly egotistical anthem lies a deeper layer of irony and social commentary.
The song’s ironic tone is what truly sets it apart. By exaggerating his own abilities and achievements, Davis invites the listener to question the nature of humility and the societal pressures we face to downplay our successes. The repeated refrain, “It’s hard to be humble,” becomes a tongue-in-cheek acknowledgment of the challenges that come with being truly modest.
Moreover, “It’s Hard to Be Humble” is a product of its time. Released in the 1980s, a decade marked by a resurgence of traditional country music, the song taps into the genre’s penchant for storytelling and character-driven narratives. Davis’s portrayal of a charismatic, confident figure aligns with the larger-than-life personas that often dominated country music during this era.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, the catchy melody and memorable lyrics make it easy for listeners to engage with. The playful nature of the song also appeals to a wide audience, transcending generational and cultural boundaries. Additionally, Davis’s charismatic delivery adds an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the performance.
While some might dismiss “It’s Hard to Be Humble” as simply a fun and catchy tune, it is a testament to Mac Davis’s songwriting prowess. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep level. Whether you’re a longtime country music fan or simply appreciate a well-crafted pop song, “It’s Hard to Be Humble” is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and inspire.
Key points to remember:
- Unique and unforgettable: The song stands out for its playful and ironic tone.
- International hit: It achieved significant commercial success upon its release.
- Social commentary: Beyond the humor, the song offers insights into societal pressures and the nature of humility.
- Product of its time: It reflects the trends and characteristics of 1980s country music.
- Enduring popularity: The song remains relevant and enjoyable for listeners of all ages.
Video
Lyrics
“Back a few months ago, I was headlinin’ a great big nightclub
And they put me up a couple days early, I came in a couple days early
And they put me up in what they call the “Star Suite”
Now here I am, headlinin’ in one of the biggest nightclubs
In the country and I wake up at eight o’clock in the morning
In this “Star Suite” all by myself”
“Awwww”
“Yeah, that’s what I said, “Awwwww.”
“But I did what I’ve always done, man, to cheer myself up
I picked up my guitar, I sat down and I wrote me a little song
Now this is how it feels to be alone at the top of the hill
Tryin’ to figure out why”
Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble
When you’re perfect in every way
I can’t wait to look in the mirror
Cause I get better looking each day
To know me is to love me
I must be a hell of a man
Oh Lord It’s hard to be humble,
But I’m doing the best that I can
I used to have a girlfriend,
But I guess she just couldn’t compete,
With all of these love-starved women,
Who keep cowering at my feet
Oh I probably could find me another,
But I guess they’re all in awe of me
Who cares?
I never get lonesome
Cause I treasure my own company
Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble
When you’re perfect in every way
(I can’t wait to look in the mirror)
I can’t wait to look in the mirror
(Help me out now! Come on)
I get better looking each day
(To know me is to what?)
To know me is to love me
(Must be a hell of man)
I must be a hell of a man
(Oh Lord It’s hard)
Oh Lord It’s hard to be humble,
(When you’re doing what?)
We’re doing the best that we can
I guess you could say I’m a loner
A cowboy out lone, tough, and proud
I could have lots of friends if I wanted
But then I wouldn’t stand out from the crowd
Some folks say that I’m egotistical
Hell I don’t even know what that means
I guess it has something to do
With the way that I fill out my skin tight with jeans
Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble
(When you’re perfect in every way)
When you’re perfect in every way
(Can’t wait to look in the mirror)
I can’t wait to look in the mirror
(‘Cause I get better looking)
I get better looking each day
(To know me is to what?)
To know me is to love me
(Must be a hell of man)
I must be a hell of a man
(Oh Lord It’s hard)
Oh Lord It’s hard to be humble,
(What are we doing?)
We’re doing the best that we can
We’re doing the best that we can