Introduction
Hank Williams’ music always has a way of capturing the real, often raw essence of life’s little quirks, and “Fly Trouble” is no exception. When listening to this song, you can almost imagine yourself swatting away a persistent fly while trying to go about your business – a small, humorous moment that Hank effortlessly turns into a catchy, relatable tune. It’s this ability to find humor and melody in the ordinary that makes Williams such a timeless artist.
About The Composition
- Title: Fly Trouble
- Composer: Hank Williams
- Premiere Date: Released in 1946
- Album/Opus/Collection: It was part of his early singles collection
- Genre: Country, with a honky-tonk influence
Background
Written in 1946, “Fly Trouble” is a perfect example of Hank Williams’ ability to blend humor with country storytelling. This song came out at a time when Williams was still establishing himself in the country music scene, but it demonstrates his innate talent for creating memorable tunes. The song tells the tale of a man plagued by trouble that, like a bothersome fly, just won’t go away. Williams wrote “Fly Trouble” during a pivotal period in his career when he was making his mark as a voice for everyday people, weaving together simple stories with complex emotions.
Musical Style
“Fly Trouble” is structured around classic honky-tonk rhythms, with its infectious beat and twangy guitar lines that are unmistakably country. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, driving the playful, lighthearted tone of the song. Williams’ vocal delivery, with its trademark nasal twang, enhances the sense of frustration humorously conveyed in the lyrics. Despite the simplicity of the arrangement, the song’s clever composition leaves a lasting impression, reflecting Williams’ skill in making the ordinary extraordinary through music.
Lyrics
In “Fly Trouble,” Williams uses the metaphor of a fly to represent life’s minor annoyances, which somehow snowball into bigger problems. The lyrics humorously detail how the protagonist’s troubles, much like the persistent insect, won’t leave him alone. The clever use of this metaphor gives the song a whimsical charm while still tapping into feelings of frustration that listeners can easily relate to. Williams’ ability to use everyday situations as fodder for his lyrics is what makes this song stand out, creating a relatable yet humorous story.
Performance History
Though not one of Williams’ biggest hits, “Fly Trouble” has been appreciated by fans for its wit and humor. It has remained a beloved piece in Hank Williams’ catalog and has been performed by various artists who admire his storytelling ability. Its lighthearted nature makes it a fun piece to perform, resonating with country music lovers who appreciate a good tale spun with a touch of humor.
Cultural Impact
While “Fly Trouble” may not have reached the same iconic status as some of Williams’ other hits, it highlights his knack for turning everyday struggles into musical gems. The song reflects a period in American history when country music was beginning to shift from rural to more urban settings, with artists like Williams bridging that gap by bringing rural experiences into mainstream consciousness.
Legacy
“Fly Trouble” continues to charm listeners today, standing as a testament to Hank Williams’ ability to craft songs that resonate across time. Its playful, relatable theme keeps it fresh for audiences even decades later. The song reminds us of the power of humor in music, especially when delivered with Williams’ unique style and perspective.
Conclusion
“Fly Trouble” may not be as well-known as some of Hank Williams’ bigger hits, but it’s a delightful example of his storytelling brilliance. It’s lighthearted, fun, and a perfect reminder of how even the smallest nuisances in life can be turned into something memorable. If you haven’t given this song a listen, now is the time. It’s a charming piece of country music history that showcases Hank’s ability to make even “fly troubles” into something worth singing about.
Video
Lyrics
Did you ever sit straight up in bed
With somethin’ a circlin’ round ya head
An ya swat at it as it wizzes by
And it’s just one pesky little fly
You shake ya head an twitch ya nose
And settle down to sweep ya floors
And when ya just about to dose, fly trouble
Buzz buzz buzz goes that busy little fly
Buzz buzz buzz he’s takin’ off an hide
You roll the paper up nice and tight
And wait around for him to light
But theirs a fly that’s a liven right
Buzz buzz buzz
Now the toughest hide grows on a mule
Cause he’s a bulky stubborn fool
He likes to look at you and glare
An never even move a hair
But when his muscles start to twitch
An when his tail begins to swish
That mule ain’t bothered with an itch…fly trouble
(chorus)buzz buzz buzz goes that busy little pest
buzz buzz buzz that mule can’t get no rest
He shakes his head an bats his eye
An kicks his heels up to the sky
Did you ever see a jass ack cry
Buzz buzz buzz
Now you pick a perfect night in June
When flowers are bloomin’ beneath the moon
And ya light of love is shinin’ bright
An you tell ya self tonight’s the night
Ya brace ya self an ya courage grows
An on ya knees where you would propose
When somethin’ bights you on the nose, fly trouble
Buzz buzz buzz goes that busy little thing
Buzz buzz buzz you swat an loose the ring
You fan the air as he goes by
An stick ya finger in your eye
Hit everything except that fly
Buzz buzz buzz