About the song
“You’re Lookin’ at Country” is a beloved country music classic penned by Loretta Lynn and released in 1971. This song holds a special place in country music history, reaching impressive milestones on the charts. It climbed to #5 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and soared to #1 on the Canada Country Tracks chart.
The inspiration for this song came during one of Lynn’s tours, as she gazed upon the picturesque countryside. In interviews, Lynn shared that the natural beauty of the meadows and hills she saw deeply influenced her writing. Unlike some of her other hits, such as “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” which often tackled more serious themes like troubled relationships, “You’re Lookin’ at Country” focuses on a lighter, more personal theme. Lynn aimed to showcase her love for the rural life and the simplicity it represents.
Lynn described her intent behind the song, noting that she wanted it to be a reflection of her own experiences and surroundings rather than a traditional love song. She was inspired by the land she loved and wanted to convey that if you were looking at her, you were seeing a true embodiment of country life.
The song was well-received by audiences and has become one of Lynn’s signature pieces. It was featured in a memorable performance on “The Muppet Show” in 1978, and was also included in the 1980 film biography “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” where actress Sissy Spacek performed the song, earning acclaim and an Academy Award for her portrayal.
In 2010, Carrie Underwood paid tribute to Lynn by covering “You’re Lookin’ at Country” for the album “Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn.” Lynn herself performed the song at the 2014 Country Music Association Awards alongside Kacey Musgraves, further cementing its place in country music legacy.
Released by Decca Records in May 1971, “You’re Lookin’ at Country” not only achieved significant chart success but also contributed to the continued popularity of Loretta Lynn as a defining voice in country music.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I like my lovin’ done country style
And this little girl would walk a country mile
To find her a good old slow talkin’ country boy
I said a country boy
I’m about as old-fashioned as I can be
So I hope you’re likin’ what you see
If you’re lookin’ at me
You’re lookin’ at country
You don’t see no city when you look at me
‘Cause country’s all I am
I love runnin’ barefooted through the old cornfields
And I love that country ham
Well, you say I’m made just to fit your plans
But there’s a barnyard shovel fit your hands
If your eyes are on me
You’re lookin’ at country, oh Bobby
Well, at least your country is a little green
But there’s a whole lotta of country that you ain’t seen
I’ll show you around if you’ll show me a weddin’ band
I said a weddin’ band
When it comes to love, well, I know about that
Country folks all know where it’s at
If you’re lookin’ at me
You’re lookin’ at country
You don’t see no city when you look at me
‘Cause country’s all I am
I love runnin’ barefooted through the old cornfields
And I love that country ham
Well, you say I’m made just to fit your plans
But there’s a barnyard shovel fit your hands
If your eyes are on me
You’re lookin’ at country
If your eyes are on me
You’re lookin’ at country