About the song
Released in August 1980, “Theme from The Dukes of Hazzard (Good Ol’ Boys)” is a memorable song written and recorded by the legendary country music artist Waylon Jennings. This track, which served as the theme song for the popular CBS television series *The Dukes of Hazzard*, became a significant hit and holds a special place in country music history.
The song’s origins are closely tied to Jennings’ involvement with the TV show. The Dukes of Hazzard, which premiered in 1979, was inspired by the film *Moonrunners* in which Jennings had previously narrated. As the show’s narrator, Jennings was chosen to write and perform the theme song. The song’s catchy and down-to-earth lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of the show, which follows the adventures of the Duke cousins, Bo and Luke, as they navigate life in the fictional Hazzard County.
There are two versions of the song: one used for the television show and another for commercial release. The TV version features banjo work by Larry McNeely and includes a distinctive lyric with characters Bo and Luke Duke, voiced by John Schneider and Tom Wopat, respectively. The commercial version, on the other hand, omits the banjo and includes a musical bridge not found in the TV version. Additionally, Jennings humorously addresses his limited screen appearance in the TV credits, singing about how only his hands are shown while he plays guitar.
“Theme from The Dukes of Hazzard (Good Ol’ Boys)” achieved remarkable success upon its release. It reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in November 1980, marking Jennings’ twelfth #1 hit and his biggest hit on the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at #21. The single was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for sales exceeding one million copies. Later, in 2007, it was certified platinum for a million ringtone sales, reflecting its enduring popularity.
This song remains a beloved classic, representing a blend of country music and television nostalgia that continues to resonate with fans of both the show and Jennings’ music.
Video
Lyrics
Just a good old boys
Never meanin’ no harm
Beats all you never saw
Been in trouble with the law since the day they was born
Straightening the curves, yeah
Flattenin’ the hills
Someday the mountain might get ’em, but the law never will
Makin’ their way the only way they know how
That’s just a little bit more than the law will allow
Makin’ their way the only way they know how (yeah)
That’s just a little bit more than the law will allow
I’m a good old boy
You know my mama loves me
But she don’t understand
They keep a-showing my hands and not my face on TV, haha