Small Town Southern Man
Alan Jackson · 34 Number Ones [2010]
And a small town southern man
Like his daddy's daddy before him
Brought up workin' on the land
Fell in love with a small town woman
And they married up and settled down
Natural way of life if you're lucky
For a small town Southern man.
First there came four pretty daughters
For this small town Southern man
Then a few years later came another
A boy, he wasn't planned
Seven people livin' all together
In a house built with his own hands
Little words with love and understandin'
From a small town Southern man.
Chorus:
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones he'll leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man.
--- Instrumental ---
Callous hands told the story
For this small town Southern man
He gave it all to keep it all together
And keep his family on his land
Like his daddy, years wore out his body
Made it hard just to walk and stand
You can break the back
But you can't break the spirit
Of a small town Southern man.
Chorus:
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones he'll leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man.
--- Instrumental ---
Finally death came callin'
For this small town southern man
He said it's alright 'cause I see angels
And they got me by the hand
Don't you cry, and don't you worry
I'm blessed, and I know I am
'Cause God has a place in Heaven
For a small town southern man
Chorus:
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
Always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones he'll leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town southern man.
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town southern man...
Small Town Southern Man
Alan Jackson's 'Small Town Southern Man' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery in country storytelling, capturing the essence of small-town life with warmth and authenticity. Released on the 2010 compilation '34 Number Ones,' the track exemplifies his signature blend of traditional country instrumentation and heartfelt vocals. Throughout his career, Jackson has consistently delivered recordings that resonate with audiences, from his early work on 'Under the Influence' to later releases like 'Original Album Classics.' This song reflects his deep connection to Southern roots, a theme frequently explored in his discography including hits like 'Way Down Yonder On The Chattahoochie' and 'The Old Rugged Cross.' The recording serves as a testament to his ability to craft music that honors regional heritage while appealing to a broad, enduring fanbase.