About the song
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” also known simply as “Country Boy,” is a celebratory anthem written by John Martin Sommers and made famous by American singer-songwriter John Denver. Originally featured on Denver’s 1974 album *Back Home Again*, the song gained immense popularity with a live version recorded at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles on August 26, 1974, which was included on his subsequent album *An Evening with John Denver*.
The live rendition of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” not only captured the infectious energy of Denver’s performances but also resonated deeply with audiences, propelling it to the top of both the Billboard Hot Country Singles and Billboard Hot 100 charts in 1975. The song’s upbeat and joyful portrayal of rural life struck a chord with listeners across genres, making it a crossover hit and showcasing Denver’s ability to blend country, folk, and pop sensibilities.
John Martin Sommers, a member of Denver’s backing band and the song’s composer, drew inspiration from a serene and contented moment on December 31, 1973, as he drove from his home in Aspen, Colorado to Los Angeles. Reflecting on his life at the time, Sommers scribbled down notes that would later evolve into the lyrics of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” The song captures the essence of gratitude and appreciation for the simple pleasures of country living, resonating with anyone who cherishes a laid-back lifestyle close to nature.
The success of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” not only underscored Denver’s popularity as a performer but also highlighted his ability to connect with audiences through themes of nostalgia, happiness, and a deep-rooted love for the countryside. The song’s infectious chorus and lively instrumentation, including banjo and fiddle, further contributed to its enduring appeal and its status as one of Denver’s signature songs.
Beyond its chart-topping success, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” inspired a variety special hosted by John Denver in 1977, further cementing its place in popular culture. Its legacy continues to thrive, celebrated for its feel-good vibe and its timeless celebration of the joys of country life.
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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 boyWell a simple kinda life never did me no harm
A raisin’ me a family and workin’ on a farm
My days are all filled with an easy country charm
Thank God I’m a country boyWell I got me a fine wife, I got me 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 boyWhen the work’s all done and the sun’s settlin’ low
I pull out the fiddle and I rosin’ up the bow
The kids are asleep so I keep it kinda low
Thank God I’m a country boyI’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 an’ I work when I should
Thank God I’m a country boyWell I got me a fine wife I got me 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, oooWell 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 boyYea, 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 boyWell I got me a fine wife I got me 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 boyWell, my fiddle was my daddy’s, till 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
An’ 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 an’ how to give just a little
An’ thank God I’m a country boyWell I got me a fine wife I got me ol’ fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny funny riddle
Ooo, thank God I’m a country boy, yes