I'm Just An Old Chunk Of Coal

John Anderson · Other Songs - John Anderson

Hey I'm just an old chunk of coal

But I'm gonna be a diamond some day

I'm gonna grow and glow till I'm so blue pure perfect

I'm gonna put a smile on everybody's face



I'm gonna kneel and pray every day

And last I should become vain along the way

And I'm just an old chunk of coal now Lord

But I'm gonna be a diamond some day



I'm gonna learn the best way to walk

I'm gonna search and find a better way to talk

And I'm gonna spit and polish my old rough edged self

Till I get rid of every single flaw



Yea, I'm gonna be the world's greatest friend

I'm gonna go round shaking everybody's hand

I'm gonna be the cotton pickin' rage of the age

Yea, I'm gonna be a diamond some day



Now I'm just an old chunk of coal

But I'm gonna be a diamond some day

Hey and I'm gonna grow and glow till I'm so blue pure perfect

I'm gonna put a smile on everybody's face



I'm gonna kneel and pray every day

And last I should become vain along the way

Hey and I'm just an old chunk of coal now Lord

But I'm gonna be a diamond some day

And yea, I'm gonna be the cotton pickin' rage of the age

Yea, I'm gonna be a diamond some day

I'm Just An Old Chunk Of Coal

John Anderson's 1974 recording of "I'm Just An Old Chunk Of Coal" stands as a defining example of his unique blend of country and rockabilly. Released during the height of his career, the track showcases Anderson's signature vocal style, characterized by a raspy, gritty delivery that cut through the Nashville sound of the era. The song's narrative, rooted in the working-class experiences of the American South, resonated deeply with audiences and became a staple of his discography. It reflects the broader cultural shift in country music during the mid-1970s, where artists began incorporating more rock-influenced instrumentation and themes of resilience and hardship. As a key track on his greatest hits collections, the song remains a testament to Anderson's ability to craft memorable, emotionally resonant music that bridged traditional country roots with contemporary rock energy.