Introduction
In the realm of American music, where genres ebb and flow with societal currents, certain songs stand as timeless beacons, transcending the fleeting trends of their era. One such song, a poignant ode to the enduring spirit of traditional country music, is “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool”, performed by the legendary George Jones alongside the equally iconic Barbara Mandrell. Released in 1982, this duet became a resounding anthem for those who cherished the roots of country music, a genre that had faced a period of commercial decline and stylistic evolution.
The Setting: A Changing Landscape of Country Music
The 1970s marked a significant turning point for country music, as the genre underwent a transformation that would forever alter its landscape. The emergence of outlaw country, spearheaded by artists like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, challenged the prevailing Nashville sound, characterized by its slick production and pop-influenced sensibilities. This shift, while invigorating for some, alienated others who yearned for the classic country style that had defined the genre for decades.
Amidst this evolving landscape, George Jones emerged as a steadfast champion of traditional country music. With his soulful baritone voice and impeccable phrasing, Jones had garnered a reputation as one of the greatest country singers of all time. His career spanned decades, and he remained true to his roots, even as the genre around him underwent dramatic changes.
Barbara Mandrell, a rising star in the country music scene, brought her own unique talents to the duet. Known for her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence, Mandrell had established herself as a versatile artist who could seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary styles. Her collaboration with Jones on “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” proved to be a match made in country music heaven.
“I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is a heartfelt ballad that paints a vivid picture of a simpler time, when country music reigned supreme. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, as Jones and Mandrell reflect on their shared love for a genre that had been their constant companion. They sing about the honky-tonks they frequented, the twangy guitars that filled the air, and the stories they heard around the campfire.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I remember wearin’ straight-leg LevisFlannel shirts even when they weren’t in styleI remember singin’ with Roy RogersAt the movies when the West was really wildAnd I was listenin’ to the OpryWhen all of my friendsWere diggin’ Rock ‘n Roll and Rhythm and BluesI was country when country wasn’t coolI remember circlin’ the drive-inPullin’ up and turnin’ down George JonesI remember when no one was lookin’I was puttin’ peanuts in my CokeI took a lot of kiddin’‘Cause I never did fit inNow look at everybodyTryin’ to be what I was thenI was country when country wasn’t cool, oohI was country when country wasn’t coolI was country from my hat down to my bootsI still act, and look the sameWhat you see ain’t nothin’ newI was country when country wasn’t coolThey call us country bumpkinsFor stickin’ to our rootsI’m just glad we’re in a countryWhere we’re all free to chooseI was country (I was country) when country wasn’t cool
Harley