That Lucky Old Sun

Dave Dudley · Other Songs - Dave Dudley

Up in the morning out to the fields I work like a devil for my pay

But that lucky old sun ain't got nothing to do but

roll around heaven all day

Well I fuss with my woman and I toil for my kids I

sweat till I'm wrinkled and gray

But that lucky old sun ain't got nothing to do but

roll around heaven all day

Oh Lord above can't you see I'm pinin' tears are in my eyes

Send down my cloud with that silvery linin' and left me to paradise

Then show me that river and take me across wash all my troubles away

Like that lucky old sun give me nothing to do but roll

around heaven all day

[ ac.guitar ]

Show me that river...

That Lucky Old Sun

Dave Dudley's 'That Lucky Old Sun' stands as a cornerstone of country music, blending traditional storytelling with a distinct Southern rock influence. Released in 1967, the track became one of the most significant recordings in the genre's history, popularizing the 'honky-tonk' sound that would define the late 1960s and early 1970s. The song's narrative follows a man seeking solace in the sun after a night of drinking, capturing the universal themes of loneliness and hope that resonated deeply with audiences. Its success propelled Dudley to stardom and established him as a major force in the Nashville scene. The composition's enduring appeal lies in its melodic simplicity and emotional depth, making it a staple in country repertoires worldwide. As a defining work of its era, it remains a powerful example of how a single recording can shape the trajectory of an artist's career and influence the broader musical landscape.