Country Music

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Country Music

Hank Williams Jr – Country State Of Mind.

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

Country music has a special way of transporting us into a world that feels both familiar and timeless. For me, “Country State of Mind” is one of those songs that does just that. Growing up, it was a tune that my family would play on road trips, windows down, and a sense of freedom in the air. Hank Williams Jr. effortlessly captures the spirit of country living in a way that feels genuine, making it not just a song, but a declaration of the country way of life. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the beauty of the outdoors, perfectly encapsulating what it means to have a “country state of mind.”

About The Composition

  • Title: Country State of Mind
  • Composer: Hank Williams Jr., Roger Alan Wade
  • Premiere Date: June 16, 1986
  • Album: Montana Cafe
  • Genre: Country (Outlaw country, Southern rock)

Background

Hank Williams Jr. released “Country State of Mind” in 1986 as part of his album Montana Cafe. The song reflects his deep-rooted love for country life, paying homage to the lifestyle that defined not just his music, but his very identity. Co-written with Roger Alan Wade, the song showcases the influences of Hank’s legendary father, Hank Williams Sr., and his own path as an outlaw country musician. The song became an anthem for those who live with a certain unshakable pride in their country roots. Upon its release, it was well-received, resonating deeply with both longtime fans of traditional country and newer audiences drawn to Hank’s rebellious, Southern rock-infused sound.

Musical Style

Musically, “Country State of Mind” is the epitome of what defines Hank Williams Jr.’s signature style — blending the laid-back, reflective nature of classic country with the more energetic, rebellious streak of Southern rock. The instrumentation is straightforward but effective, with steel guitars, a steady rhythm section, and Hank’s unmistakable voice leading the charge. His deep, gravelly vocals are filled with authenticity and passion, giving the listener a glimpse into what it feels like to truly live in a country state of mind. There’s a sense of simplicity, yet the song’s execution is masterful in capturing the listener’s emotions.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Country State of Mind” are a celebration of rural life and the freedom it offers. Lines like “I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind” reflect a deep connection to the simplicity of country living, while simultaneously rejecting the complexities of the modern world. Hank Jr. weaves in references to fishing, good whiskey, and the slower pace of life, creating vivid imagery that resonates with anyone who’s ever found solace in nature. The song’s narrative is both nostalgic and aspirational, suggesting that peace and contentment are found in the country way of life.

Performance History

Upon its release, “Country State of Mind” quickly became one of Hank Williams Jr.’s most recognizable songs, climbing to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It has since been performed at many of his live shows, often becoming a crowd favorite. The song’s legacy has been further cemented through various covers by artists across generations, including a notable rendition by Chris Janson featuring Hank Jr. in 2020, showing that its themes of country pride remain relevant today.

Cultural Impact

“Country State of Mind” stands as one of Hank Williams Jr.’s signature songs, embodying the themes of freedom, pride, and country living that resonate deeply with fans of the genre. Its influence extends beyond country music, with the song becoming a cultural symbol of rural Americana. It has been featured in television shows, movies, and commercials that want to evoke a sense of nostalgia or appeal to the country way of life. The song’s message has endured, with modern audiences still connecting with its themes of simplicity and escape from the hustle of daily life.

Legacy

Over the years, “Country State of Mind” has proven to be more than just a song — it’s a state of being for those who identify with the rural American experience. Hank Williams Jr.’s ability to connect with his audience through authentic storytelling and a unique blend of country and Southern rock has made the song an enduring anthem. Decades later, it continues to inspire listeners to take a step back, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the simple things in life.

Conclusion

“Country State of Mind” is a timeless piece that transcends its era, continuing to resonate with listeners today. It’s more than a song; it’s an invitation to reconnect with the things that matter — family, nature, and the freedom that comes with living life at your own pace. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to give it a listen. Whether it’s Hank Jr.’s original version or one of the many covers, it’s a song that’ll take you to a place where life is a little slower, and a lot more peaceful.

Video

Lyrics

That hot, old summer sun
Make you beg for your next breath
So, you best be on the creek bank
Laying in the shade
Chewing on a hickory twig
Pass that bottle, I’ll have me a swig
I ain’t got a lot but I think I got it made
In the shade
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
Catching these fish like they’re going out of style
Drinking this homemade wine
Hey, if the sun don’t come up tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
I bet the old man’s in the kitchen
He’s got my kind of music on his radio
Aah, drinking his beer and
Dialing up the request lines
Mama and old Aunt Joan probably in the
Dining room trying to use the phone
Me, I’m thinking about that girl and later tonight
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
I’m catching these fish like they’re going out of style
I’m drinking this homemade wine
And if the sun don’t come up tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind
You know the rednecks and the preppies
They’re in their discos and honky-tonks
Somewhere between raising hell and Amazing Grace
Lord, I know just how they feel
You gotta get out and kick it up your heels
And ain’t it great to be living in the USA
Me, I’m laid up here in a
Country state of mind
Catching these fish like they’re going out of style
Drinking this homemade wine, all the time
If the sun don’t shine tomorrow
People, I have had a good time
I’m just laid up here in a country state of mind

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