About The Song
Kenny Rogers’ “Coward of the County”: A Country Music Classic
“Coward of the County” is a country song written by Roger Bowling and Billy Edd Wheeler and recorded by American country music singer Kenny Rogers. It was released in November 1979 as the second single from Rogers’ multi-platinum album Kenny. The song became a major crossover hit, topping the Billboard Country chart and reaching number three on the Hot 100 chart; it also topped the Cash Box singles chart and was a Top 10 hit in numerous other countries worldwide, topping the chart in Canada, the UK and Ireland, where it remained at number one for six consecutive weeks.
The song tells the story of a young man named Tommy who is labeled a coward by the people in his small town. Tommy is constantly picked on and bullied, and he never seems to stand up for himself. However, one day, Tommy’s father is shot and killed, and Tommy is forced to finally confront his fears. He tracks down the killer and brings him to justice, proving to everyone that he is no coward after all.
“Coward of the County” is a classic country ballad with a timeless message about overcoming adversity. The song’s lyrics are simple but powerful, and Rogers’s delivery is heartfelt and sincere. The song has been praised by critics and fans alike, and it has become one of Rogers’s signature songs.
Themes and Symbolism
The song “Coward of the County” explores a number of themes, including:
- Courage
The song’s central theme is courage. Tommy is initially portrayed as a coward, but he eventually finds the courage to stand up for himself and his family. The song suggests that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of fear.
- Overcoming adversity
The song also explores the theme of overcoming adversity. Tommy faces a number of challenges in his life, including being bullied, being labeled a coward, and the death of his father. However, he ultimately overcomes these challenges and emerges a stronger person.
- Redemption
The song also tells a story of redemption. Tommy starts out as a character who is looked down upon by everyone in his town. However, by the end of the song, he has redeemed himself and earned the respect of his community.
Critical Reception and Legacy
“Coward of the County” was a critical and commercial success. The song won the Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male in 1980. It was also a major crossover hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has been praised by critics for its powerful lyrics and Rogers’s heartfelt delivery. It has also been covered by a number of artists, including Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Alan Jackson.
“Coward of the County” is a classic country ballad that has stood the test of time. The song’s themes of courage, overcoming adversity, and redemption are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released. Rogers’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s powerful lyrics make it a moving and unforgettable listening experience.