About the song
Hank Jr.’s Rowdy Anthem: Born to Boogie
Hank Williams Jr., a true inheritor of his father’s legacy, carved his own path in country music. Known for his high-octane energy and rebellious spirit, he resonated with a generation of fans seeking an unfiltered sound. “Born to Boogie,” released in 1987, serves as a sonic manifesto, a declaration of his love for music and his commitment to living life on his own terms.
A Celebration of Music and Freedom
“Born to Boogie” is a full-throttle anthem that celebrates the pure joy of music. The opening lines, “Never could resist a honky-tonk beat, seedless I drank a whiskey, found the gallery seat,” paint a picture of a man immersed in the world of music, seeking out the energy and camaraderie of live performances. The song’s driving rhythm and soaring guitar riffs perfectly capture the exhilarating feeling of getting lost in the music.
Living Life on the Edge
Beyond the celebration of music, “Born to Boogie” hints at a restless spirit and a penchant for living life on the edge. Lines like “I still got my head and I feel where my chin’s at, but guitar steel do you think I won’t baby pull it apart?” showcase a willingness to push boundaries and embrace a life less ordinary.
Hank Jr.’s Signature Grit
Hank Jr.’s vocals are a perfect match for the song’s energetic spirit. He delivers the lyrics with a signature Southern drawl and a touch of grit, conveying the raw emotion and unyielding attitude that became his trademark. The interplay between his vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation creates an irresistible energy that pulls the listener into the heart of the song.
A Legacy of Southern Rock
“Born to Boogie” transcended the boundaries of traditional country music, incorporating elements of Southern rock and blues. This fusion of styles resonated with a wider audience, solidifying Hank Jr.’s position as a leading voice in a new generation of country music.
A Timeless Party Anthem
“Born to Boogie” remains a cornerstone of Hank Williams Jr.’s catalog and a staple of country radio. Its infectious energy and celebration of music ensure its place as a timeless party anthem. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or simply looking for a song to crank up the volume and let loose, “Born to Boogie” delivers an unforgettable experience.
Video
Lyrics
“Born To Boogie”
Well my momma met my daddy down in Alabama
They tied the knot so here I am.
Born on the bayou on the Texas Line
Loved Louisiana and raised on Jambalaya.Now before I could walk I had a guitar in my hand
By the time I could talk I had my own band,
Went on the road when I was eight years old
When I turned fifteen I was stealing the show.Money to burn and the girls were pretty
It didn’t take me long to learn that I was born to boogie.When I was eighteen I went to Hollywood
I met Elvis, Marilyn and Johnny B. Goode,
Got my guitar painted in the California sun
A red caddilac having to much fun.Now we were playing them halls and jammin’
Then until they moved me on over to M.G.M.
They said this is the boy we’ve been telling you about,
He lit a cigar and stuck his hand out.He said son have we got a deal for you
Gonna make you a star give you fifty thousand too.
I told him my Momma didn’t raise no fool.
I’ll take your money, I’ll make you a movie
But I can tell ya’ right now I am born to boogie.Well my name is Bocephus I drink whiskey by the gallon
And I never back down and I love a good challenge
What I do now is what I did then
I like to get down with all my rowdy friends.Now I can be sweet and I can be mean
I still got my hat and I still wear my jeans
My shades are chromo my guitar is steal
If you think I won’t then believe me I willGet down on you baby because I ain’t no rookie
I was put here to party and I was born to boogie