David Allan Coe – Longhaired Redneck

About the song

In the realm of country music, where the twang of the guitar and the tales of life’s struggles intertwine, David Allan Coe stands as a figure both celebrated and controversial. His music, often raw and unapologetic, speaks to the heart of the American experience, particularly the side that’s a little rough around the edges. Among his notable works, the song “Longhaired Redneck” remains a quintessential example of his style, a bold declaration of identity that resonates with those who have ever felt like an outsider.

“Longhaired Redneck” is not just a song; it’s an anthem. It’s a musical embodiment of the rebellious spirit that has always been a part of country music’s DNA. Coe, with his distinctive voice and storytelling prowess, paints a vivid picture of a man who defies societal norms, a man who embraces his individuality in the face of judgment. The lyrics, laced with a touch of humor and a hint of defiance, celebrate the longhaired redneck as a symbol of authenticity in a world that often demands conformity.

The song’s appeal lies in its relatability. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt the sting of prejudice, anyone who has ever been told they don’t fit in. Coe’s words give voice to the unspoken feelings of those who have been marginalized or misunderstood. He captures the essence of the outsider, the one who lives life on their own terms, regardless of what others may think.

Musically, “Longhaired Redneck” is a classic country tune, with a catchy melody and a driving rhythm that compels listeners to tap their feet and sing along. The instrumentation is traditional, featuring the twang of the banjo, the mournful cry of the steel guitar, and the steady beat of the drums. It’s a sound that’s both familiar and comforting, a sound that evokes images of wide-open spaces and the simple joys of life.

But what truly sets “Longhaired Redneck” apart is Coe’s delivery. His voice, rough and weathered, carries the weight of experience. He sings with conviction, imbuing every word with honesty and emotion. You can feel the passion in his voice, the sense of pride in his identity. It’s a performance that’s both powerful and moving, one that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.

In the years since its release, “Longhaired Redneck” has become a classic, a staple of country radio and a favorite among fans of Coe’s music. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, its message as relevant today as it was when it was first written. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect with people on a deep level, to give voice to their experiences and emotions.

For those who appreciate country music that’s both authentic and thought-provoking, “Longhaired Redneck” is a must-listen. It’s a song that will stay with you long after the final note has faded away, a reminder that it’s okay to be different, okay to stand out from the crowd. It’s a celebration of individuality, a tribute to the longhaired rednecks among us, the ones who dare to be themselves, no matter what.

Video

Lyrics

Country deejays knows that I’m an outlaw
They’d never come to see me in this dive
Where bikers stare at cowboys who are laughing at the hippies
Who are praying they’ll get outta here alive

The loud mouth in the corner’s gettin’ to me
Talking ’bout my earrings and my hair
I guess he ain’t read the signs that say I been to prison
Someone ought to warn him ‘fore I knock him off his chair

‘Cause my long hair just can’t cover up my red neck
I’ve won every fight, I’ve ever fought
Hey, I don’t need some turkey telling me that I ain’t country
And sayin’ I ain’t worth the damned ol’ ticket that he bought

‘Cause I can sing all them songs about Texas
And I still do all the sad ones that I know
They tell me, I look like Merle Haggard
And sound a lot like David Allen Coe

And the bar maid in the last town that we played in
Knew the words to every song I’d wrote
She said, Jimmy Rabbit turned her on to my last album
Just about the time the jukebox broke

Yeah, Johny Cash helped me get out of prison
Long before Rodriguez stole that goat
I’ve been the Rhinestone Cowboy for so long, I can’t remember
And I can do you every song, Hank Williams ever wrote

And I can sing all them songs about Texas
And I still do all the sad ones that I know
I can’t help it, I look like Merle Haggard
And I sound a lot like David Allen Coe

But the country deejays, all think I’m an outlaw
And they’d never come to see me in this dive
Where bikers stare at cowboys who are laughing at the hippies
Who are praying they’ll get out of here alive

The loud mouth in the corner’s gettin’ to me
Talking ’bout my earrings and my hair