The Fascinating Tale Behind John Denver’s “Thank God I’m a Country Boy”
When it comes to memorable stage names, Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr. doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue. And John Denver knew this all too well when he embarked on his music career. While he held onto his real name dearly, he refused to let it hinder him from pursuing his true passion. Countless suggestions for a stage name came his way, but the one that resonated with him the most was “Denver.”
By 1975, the name Denver had become familiar enough that ABC-TV featured him in an Emmy-winning special titled “An Evening with John Denver.” The program coincided with his highly acclaimed live album, a two-record set recorded at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles. Although most of the songs were penned by Denver, the standout single was actually written by a band member named John M. Sommers.
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy” was edited for radio airplay, and while the album achieved gold status in February of 1975, the single soared even higher. It earned its own gold certification on May 26th, reaching the pinnacle of Billboard’s country chart just five days later. Not stopping there, it climbed all the way to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart the following week. Remarkably, this record was one of only five singles to top both charts in 1975.
With its lyrics delving into the joys of farm life, country cooking, and the soulful sounds of the mountain fiddle, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” is undeniably a celebration of country living. Interestingly, the song creates a captivating connection between the country’s past and present by referencing the tune “Sally Gooden.” This particular song was recorded by Eck Robertson and Henry Gilliland back in 1922, making it one of the very first country records ever made. It holds a special place in history, being one of the charter inductees into the Library of Congress’ esteemed “National Recording Registry” in 2002.
Despite the unmistakable country flavor of “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” Denver found himself at the center of controversy just five months later. The Country Music Association (CMA) named him “Entertainer of the Year,” which didn’t sit well with a conservative faction in Nashville. They expressed their displeasure at the fact that a “crossover” performer could claim the CMA’s most prestigious award.
However, Denver’s deep connection to country music stemmed from his upbringing, greatly influenced by his father, an avid country music enthusiast. This influence was palpable in his music, and Denver’s lifelong dream came true when he took the stage for the very first time at the hallowed Grand Ole Opry on November 12, 1976.
The story behind John Denver’s hit song, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” is a testament to his unwavering determination, the timeless appeal of country living, and the complexities of the music industry. It’s a reminder that sometimes, even in the face of controversy, staying true to one’s roots can lead to incredible success and unforgettable moments.
Released: 1974
Album: Back Home Again
Artist: John Denver
Genres: Pop, Country folk, Country
Nominations: Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year
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
