About the song
“Thank God I’m a Country Boy,” also known simply as “Country Boy,” is a beloved song by American singer-songwriter John Denver. Written by John Martin Sommers, a talented musician who played several instruments in Denver’s band, the song was first featured on Denver’s 1974 album *Back Home Again*. The heartfelt tune reflects Sommers’ contentment and joy during a drive from his home in Aspen, Colorado to Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve 1973, coincidentally Denver’s 30th birthday.
The song quickly became a favorite, earning its place in the hearts of many. A live version recorded on August 26, 1974, at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles was released on Denver’s 1975 album *An Evening with John Denver*. This live rendition achieved remarkable success, topping both the Billboard Hot Country Singles and the Billboard Hot 100 charts for one week each—first hitting the country chart on May 31, and then reaching the Hot 100 the following week.
In addition to its chart-topping success, “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” became the title of a special variety show hosted by John Denver in 1977. The song’s cheerful melody and down-to-earth lyrics celebrate the simplicity and joy of rural life, resonating with many listeners who appreciate its positive message and catchy tune. It stands out as one of the six songs in 1975 that topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Singles charts, highlighting its widespread appeal and Denver’s enduring popularity.
This song remains a testament to Denver’s ability to capture the essence of country life with warmth and authenticity, making it a cherished part of his musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Clap your hands!
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
Thank God I’m a country boy
Well, a simple kind of 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 old 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
When the work’s all done and the sun’s settin’ low
I pull out my fiddle and I rosin up the bow
Kids are asleep so I keep it kinda low
And 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, work when I should
Thank God I’m a country boy
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old 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, woohoo!
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 mighty keen
Son, let me tell you now exactly what I mean
Thank God I’m a country boy
Well, I got me a fine wife, I got me old 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, yes sir!
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 the fiddle with pride
And thank God you’re a country boy”
My daddy taught me young how to hunt and how to whittle
Taught me how to work and play a tune on the fiddle
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 old fiddle
When the sun’s comin’ up, I got cakes on the griddle
Life ain’t nothin’ but a funny, funny riddle
Whew! Thank God I’m a country boy, yeah!
John Summers played the fiddle
And he wrote that song!