Country Music

Classic Country Music Hits

Country Music

Dinosaur · Hank Williams Jr.

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Introduction

Listening to Hank Williams Jr.’s “Dinosaur” is like catching up with an old friend who tells it like it is. This song, released in 1980 on his Habits Old and New album, is a clever, unapologetic critique of how much the world has changed—and not always for the better. If you’ve ever felt out of place in a world that’s moving too fast, this track will hit you right in the feels.

The song opens with a bold declaration: “Hey man, them ain’t high heel sneakers / And they sure don’t look like cowboy boots.” Right from the first line, Hank Jr. pulls no punches, making it clear that he’s not a fan of the new fashion trends and cultural shifts that came with the late ’70s and early ’80s. He longs for simpler times, when country music had that genuine twang and the people were down-to-earth. It’s a sentiment that many listeners, especially those who feel disillusioned by modern times, can relate to.

“Dinosaur” is more than just a rant about changing times—it’s an anthem for those who miss the days when life felt a little more authentic. Hank Jr. captures that feeling of being a “dinosaur” in a world that’s all about the latest gadgets, trends, and lifestyles. You can almost hear the frustration and nostalgia in his voice as he wonders where the world he grew up in went. Yet, there’s also a tinge of defiant pride. He’s not ashamed of being old-fashioned; in fact, he embraces it.

Musically, the song stays true to Hank Williams Jr.’s signature blend of Southern rock and traditional country. The upbeat rhythm and driving guitar riffs almost disguise the biting social commentary within the lyrics, making it a fun yet thought-provoking listening experience. It’s a song that gets you tapping your foot while nodding in agreement to the lyrics—especially if you’ve ever felt like the world is changing a bit too fast for your taste.

What makes “Dinosaur” truly special is how Hank Jr. turns his personal gripes into a universal feeling. He’s singing about himself, sure, but he’s also speaking for anyone who feels out of step with the times. Whether you’re nostalgic for the past or simply overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change, this song lets you know you’re not alone.

And let’s not forget Hank’s powerful vocal delivery. The way he belts out each line, with that rough-around-the-edges voice, it’s like he’s right there with you, sharing a drink at a dusty honky-tonk, shaking his head at the way things have turned out. The song’s raw honesty and unapologetic attitude make it an enduring favorite among fans who appreciate country music that stays true to its roots.

In a world that’s constantly pushing for the next big thing, “Dinosaur” is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple, authentic things that made life rich in the past. Whether it’s real country music, honest conversations, or a way of living that’s less about keeping up with the latest trends and more about staying true to who you are—Hank Williams Jr. reminds us all that being a “dinosaur” might not be such a bad thing after all.

So, the next time you’re feeling out of place, throw on “Dinosaur,” sit back, and let Hank Jr. remind you that sometimes it’s okay to be a little old school.

Video

Lyrics

Hey man them ain’t high heeled sneakers
And they sure don’t look like cowboy boots
And that ain’t rock and roll you’re playin’
And it sure ain’t country or rhythm and blues
You’re singin’ a song about makin’ love to your drummer
Well gay guitar-pickers don’t turn me on
And we don’t all get into Donna Summer
Do you happen to know any old Hank Williams songs?
‘Cause you see I’m a dinosaur
I should’ve died a long time before
Have pity on a dinosaur hand me my hat
Excuse me man, but where’s the door?
Used to be I had a lotta fun in this old hangout
We’d get stoned at the jukebox and stay outta fights
Now and then we’d light a little smoke in the truck out back
Aww, then a little old Jim Beam and we’d get right
And you know these flashing lights sure make me dizzy
And this disco’s very strange to my ear
It looks like they’ve turned the longhorn into a spaceship
And I’ll be leavin’ just as soon as I finish this beer
‘Cause you see I’m a dinosaur
Should’ve died a long time before
There’s a whole lotta dinosaurs
Give us our hats, excuse me man, but where’s the door?
Get us our hats, excuse me man, where’s the door?

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