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Buckle up for a rowdy and unapologetic celebration of country music’s outlaw spirit with David Allan Coe’s iconic anthem, “If That Ain’t Country”. Released in 1980 on his album Longhaired Country Boy, this song became a rallying cry for traditional country music fans, offering a scathing critique of the genre’s growing commercialization and a nostalgic yearning for its rough-and-tumble roots. “If That Ain’t Country” isn’t just a critique; it’s a boisterous declaration of what Coe believes defines the true essence of country music – a genre steeped in working-class struggles, heartbreak, rebellion, and a healthy dose of outlaw swagger.
David Allan Coe, a controversial yet undeniably influential figure in country music, wrote “If That Ain’t Country” himself. The song allows him to showcase his signature brand of outlaw country, characterized by raw vocals, blunt lyrics, and a defiant attitude. “If That Ain’t Country” doesn’t mince words; it throws punches at the Nashville establishment, accusing them of prioritizing polished pop production over genuine storytelling and emotional depth. The song became an instant hit with fans who felt alienated by the polished sounds dominating the country charts.
The beauty of “If That Ain’t Country” lies in its rebellious spirit and its unapologetic embrace of country music’s grittier side. The song doesn’t rely on complex metaphors or elaborate musical arrangements. Instead, it uses a series of vivid anecdotes and relatable scenarios to paint a picture of the struggles and realities of everyday people. Lines like “Working for a living, barely gettin’ by / Just trying to raise a family, under a hard sky” establish a sense of blue-collar authenticity that resonated with many listeners.
“If That Ain’t Country” doesn’t shy away from portraying the darker aspects of rural life. Lines like “Whiskey on the table, tears in her eyes / Another fight and another goodbye” capture the heartbreak and struggles often found in country music narratives. The song doesn’t glorify these hardships; it simply acknowledges them as a part of the human experience and a source of inspiration for country music’s storytelling tradition.
The musical arrangement in “If That Ain’t Country” perfectly complements the song’s rebellious spirit and unpolished charm. While not credited on the album liner notes, Billy Sherrill, a prominent country music producer, is believed to be behind the production. He crafts a simple yet driving soundscape that evokes the energy of a live honky-tonk performance. A prominent steel guitar adds a touch of twang, while a steady backbeat keeps the energy high. Coe’s signature raspy vocals take center stage, delivered with a gruff authenticity that perfectly embodies the rebellious spirit of the song’s message.
“If That Ain’t Country” may not have topped the charts, but its influence on country music is undeniable. The song became an anthem for fans who felt the genre was losing its way, inspiring a wave of neo-traditionalist artists who embraced the raw and rebellious spirit that Coe championed. “If That Ain’t Country” stands as a testament to David Allan Coe’s legacy as a songwriter and a reminder of the enduring power of country music’s outlaw tradition.