Introduction
Anthem of the Open Road: Celebrating Rural Pride in Alan Jackson’s “Country Boy”
“Country Boy” is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Alan Jackson. Released on September 29, 2008, it served as the third single from his album “Good Time.” The track is characterized by its moderate up-tempo rhythm, driven by prominent electric guitar, and features Jackson inviting a female companion to join him in his four-wheel-drive truck, emphasizing his rural roots and lifestyle.
Upon its release, “Country Boy” received mixed critical reviews. Brady Vercher of Engine 145 gave the song a “thumbs down,” describing it as “four minutes of triviality” and comparing its theme to Luke Bryan’s “Country Man.” Conversely, Jeffrey B. Remz of Country Standard Time viewed the song more favorably, noting that despite its familiar theme of Southern life, Jackson’s authenticity as “the real deal” set it apart.
Commercially, the song achieved significant success. In January 2009, it became Jackson’s twenty-fifth Number One hit on the Billboard country singles charts and marked the third consecutive Number One from the “Good Time” album. This accomplishment tied Jackson with George Strait for the most Number One hits by a country artist since January 1990.
The music video for “Country Boy” further contributed to its popularity. Before the official video release, CMT aired a live performance featuring Jackson alongside Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, and George Strait during the CMT Giants special. Additionally, Jackson held a contest on his official YouTube channel, inviting fans to create their own videos for the song, which concluded on October 6, 2008.
“Country Boy” stands as a testament to Alan Jackson’s ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences by celebrating the simplicity and authenticity of country life.
Video
Lyrics
Excuse me ma’am, I saw you walkin’
I turned around, I’m not a stalker
Where you going? Maybe I can help you
My tank is full, I’d be obliged to take you
‘Cause I’m a country boy, I’ve got a four-wheel drive
Climb in my bed, I’ll take you for a ride
Up city streets, down country roads
I can get you where you need to go
‘Cause I’m a country boy
You sure look good, sittin’ in my right seat
Buckle up, and I’ll take you through the five speeds
Wind it up, or I can slow it way down
In the woods or right uptown
I’m a country boy, I’ve got a four-wheel drive
Climb in my bed, I’ll take you for a ride
Up city streets, down country roads
I can get you where you need to go
‘Cause I’m a country boy
Big 35’s whinin’ on the asphalt
Grabbin’ mud, and slingin’ up some red dirt
‘Cause I’m a country boy
My muffler’s loud, dual thrush tubes
I crank the music, the tone gets real good
Let me know when we’re gettin’ close
You can slide on out, or we can head on down the road
‘Cause I’m a country boy, I’ve got a four-wheel drive
Climb in my bed, I’ll take you for a ride
Up city streets, down country roads
I can get you where you want to go
‘Cause I’m a country boy
Bucket seats, soft as baby’s new butt
Lockin’ hubs, that’ll take you through a deep rut
‘Cause I’m a country boy, I’ve got a four-wheel drive
Climb in my bed, I’ll take you for a ride
Up city streets, down winding roads
I can get you where you need to go
‘Cause I’m a country boy
Yeah
Yeah I’m a country boy, I’ve got a four-wheel drive
Climb in my bed, I’ll take you for a ride
Up city streets, down country roads
I can get you where you want to go
‘Cause I’m a country boy
Yeah, I’m a country boy,
Oh, I’m just a country boy,
A nice little country boy.