Introduction
Released on January 22, 2014 via iTunes as a promotional single, “Grown Damn Man” was issued ahead of Ronnie Dunn’s second solo album, Peace, Love and Country Music, which officially dropped on April 8, 2014 . The track served as one of the early teasers for the project.
Rooted in traditional honky‑tonk style, the song marries raw, gritty instrumentation with lyrics reflecting lived experience. Critics praised its stripped‑down sound: rough‑edged guitars, honest vocal delivery, and simple yet powerful phrasing . As one reviewer noted, the opening guitar and lyrical authenticity “knocked my socks off,” highlighting Dunn’s ability to channel deep emotional resonance with everyday imagery and a voice steeped in country tradition .
Lyrically, “Grown Damn Man” portrays the singer’s personal journey—aging, grit, modest means, and pride in a simple life:
“the lines on my face had to fight to earn its place … I’m not rich but I get by … by the grace of God … I live simple, I work hard … I’m a grown damn man” .
This song stands in contrast to the more polished mainstream country-pop and bro-country that dominated radio at the time. It reaffirms Dunn’s roots in traditional craftsmanship and emotional sincerity in songwriting .
Positioned at the beginning of Peace, Love and Country Music, “Grown Damn Man” helps set the tone for the album: a collection that swings between introspective storytelling and hard‑driving country‑rock commentary. Though not released as an official radio single, it drew attention as one of the strongest album cuts, displaying Dunn’s enduring vocal power and lyrical honesty
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
I’m a grown damn man
Rough around the edges, That’s what I am
Every line on this face
Has had to fight to earn its place
This heart beating in my chest
Can be a little reckless at times, I guess
These tired baby blues
Still light up when they see you
[Chorus][x2]
I’ve been around enough by now
Got a few things figured out
By the grace of God I go
Down life’s long and winding road
I’m not rich but I get by
I walk through life with my head held high
I’ve come by things the hard way
Have my good and my bad days
I like my beer good and cold
Whiskey too much at times I’m told
I like my music with a twang
It comes to you about everything
[Verse 2]
I live simple I work hard
I own my truck you own my heart
Baby until they lay me in my grave
I’ll love you until my dying day
I’m a grown damn man
Rough around the edges that’s what I am
Every line on this face
Has had to fight to earn its place
This heart beating in my chest
Can get a little reckless at times, I guess
These tired baby blues
Still light up when they see you