Alan Jackson performs “Small Town Southern Man” on May 5, 2007 in California

About the song

Alan Jackson, a name synonymous with country music, has crafted a career built on storytelling and authenticity. His songs often paint vivid pictures of life in the American South, and “Small Town Southern Man” is no exception. This heartfelt ballad delves into the simple pleasures, values, and challenges of growing up and living in a close-knit community.

Jackson’s storytelling prowess shines in this track. He paints a nostalgic portrait of a small town, where everyone knows everyone’s business, and the pace of life is leisurely. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for the familiar, the comforting, and the uncomplicated. Jackson’s voice, rich and resonant, conveys a deep emotional connection to the subject matter.

The song’s chorus is a powerful declaration of pride in one’s roots: “I’m a small town southern man, raised on a prayer and a helping hand.” This line encapsulates the core theme of the song, celebrating the enduring values and traditions of the South. Jackson’s simple, yet evocative lyrics, combined with his soulful delivery, make this chorus instantly memorable.

Throughout the song, Jackson touches on various themes, such as the importance of family, the challenges of growing up, and the enduring appeal of small-town life. He also pays homage to the working class, highlighting the hard work and dedication that have shaped the Southern identity.

“Small Town Southern Man” is more than just a song; it’s a tribute to a way of life that is slowly disappearing. Jackson’s heartfelt performance captures the essence of this disappearing world, reminding us of the importance of our roots and the enduring power of human connection. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of country music or simply looking for a relatable and heartwarming song, “Small Town Southern Man” is sure to resonate.

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 livin’ all together
In a house built with his own hands
Little words with love and understandin’
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
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

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
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

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
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