“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Small Town Southern Man” is a song by renowned country music artist Alan Jackson. Released in late 2007, the song marked Jackson’s return to the charts and reaffirmed his status as a staple in the country music genre. Known for his storytelling ability and rich baritone voice, Jackson delivers a heartfelt homage to traditional values and the life of a Southern man, resonating deeply with audiences across America.
The track is a poignant narrative, showcasing Jackson’s ability to weave personal experiences into universal themes. It highlights the simplicity and dignity of rural life, celebrating the virtues of hard work, family, and faith. “Small Town Southern Man” encapsulates the essence of country living and stands as a testament to Jackson’s skill as a storyteller.
About The Composition
- Title: “Small Town Southern Man”
- Composer: Alan Jackson
- Premiere Date: November 2007
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Good Time”
- Genre: Country
Background
“Small Town Southern Man” was released as the lead single from Alan Jackson’s album “Good Time.” The song quickly climbed the charts, becoming a defining track of Jackson’s career. It was celebrated for its authentic portrayal of the Southern lifestyle and was appreciated for its narrative depth. The song’s success further solidified Jackson’s reputation as a leading voice in country music, known for his ability to connect with listeners through genuine and heartfelt storytelling.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Small Town Southern Man” is characterized by traditional country instrumentation, featuring prominent acoustic guitar, banjo, and fiddle. The arrangement is straightforward and uncluttered, allowing Jackson’s emotive vocals to take center stage. The song’s melody is catchy yet simple, reflecting the uncomplicated life it describes, while the production maintains a warm, rustic feel.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Small Town Southern Man” focus on themes of family, hard work, and the enduring values of rural America. It tells the story of a man’s life, from his birth to his passing, and the legacy he leaves behind. The narrative is rich with imagery, painting a vivid picture of Southern life and the importance of tradition and integrity.
Performance History
“Small Town Southern Man” has been performed by Alan Jackson at numerous concerts and events, often receiving enthusiastic responses from audiences. Its relatable themes and engaging storytelling make it a favorite in Jackson’s live repertoire. The song’s success on the charts also led to significant radio play, further cementing its place in country music history.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a significant impact on country music, influencing artists who seek to capture the essence of Southern life in their work. Its portrayal of traditional values continues to resonate with listeners, especially those from rural areas. “Small Town Southern Man” has also appeared in various media, contributing to its lasting cultural presence.
Legacy
Today, “Small Town Southern Man” remains an enduring classic in Alan Jackson’s discography. Its themes of family, faith, and hard work continue to appeal to new generations of country music fans. The song stands as a testament to the timeless nature of Jackson’s music and his ability to capture the heart and soul of American life through song.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Small Town Southern Man” is a powerful reflection of Alan Jackson’s artistry and the enduring appeal of country music’s core themes. Its storytelling, musical style, and cultural impact make it a noteworthy piece of Jackson’s legacy. For those who appreciate the authenticity and warmth of country music, this song is a must-listen. I encourage you to explore more of Alan Jackson’s work to fully appreciate his contribution to the genre.
Video
Lyrics
Born the middle son
Of a farmer
And a small town
Southern man
Like his daddy’s
Daddy before him
Brought up
Workin’ on the land
Fell in love
With a small town woman
And they married up
And settled down
Natural way of life
If you’re lucky
For a small town
Southern man
First there came
Four pretty daughters
For this small town
Southern man
Then a few years
Later came another
A boy, he wasn’t planned
Seven people
Living all together
In a house built
With his own hands
Little words with love
And understanding
From a small town
Southern man
And he bowed
His head to Jesus
And he stood
For Uncle Sam
And he only loved
One woman
He was always proud
Of what he had
He said
His greatest contribution
Is the ones
You leave behind
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man
Callous hands
Told the story
For this small town
Southern man
He gave it all
To keep it all together
And keep his family
On his land
Like his daddy
Years wore out his body
Made it hard
Just to walk
And stand
You can break the back
But you can’t break
The spirit
Of a small town
Southern man
And he bowed
His head to Jesus
And he stood
For Uncle Sam
And he only loved
One woman
He was always proud
Of what he had
He said
His greatest contribution
Is the ones
You leave behind
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man
Finally death
Came callin’
For this small town
Southern man
He said it’s alright
‘Cause I see angels
And they got me
By the hand
Don’t you cry
And don’t you worry
I’m blessed
And I know I am
‘Cause God
Has a place in heaven
For a small town
Southern man
And he bowed
His head to Jesus
And he stood
For Uncle Sam
And he only loved
One woman
He was always proud
Of what he had
He said
His greatest contribution
Is the ones
You leave behind
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man
Raised on the ways
And gentle kindness
Of a small town
Southern man