Echoes of Pride: The Everlasting Appeal of Hank Williams Jr.’s ‘Family Tradition’

About The Song

“Family Tradition” is a country music song performed by the legendary artist Hank Williams Jr. Released in 1979 as the title track of his album, the song became one of Williams’ signature tunes and a staple of his live performances.

The lyrics of “Family Tradition” reflect Williams’ rebellious spirit and the pressure he faced to follow in the footsteps of his famous father, country music icon Hank Williams Sr. In the song, Williams Jr. sings about his love for drinking, partying, and living life on his own terms, despite criticism from those who expect him to adhere to his family’s musical legacy.

With its catchy melody, lively instrumentation, and candid lyrics, “Family Tradition” struck a chord with audiences and helped solidify Williams Jr.’s reputation as a powerhouse in the country music scene. His distinctive vocal delivery and raw authenticity added depth and resonance to the song’s message of independence and self-expression.

READ MORE  A Soulful Tribute to Country Music Icons: Stoney Edwards' "Hank and Lefty Raised My Country Soul"

“Family Tradition” became one of Hank Williams Jr.’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the country music charts and earning critical acclaim. Its rebellious attitude and relatable themes resonated with fans of all ages, making it a timeless classic in the country music canon.

Over the years, “Family Tradition” has remained a fan favorite and a mainstay on country music playlists, continuing to inspire audiences with its unapologetic embrace of individuality and defiance of expectations.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤 
Country music singersHave always been a real close familyBut lately some of my kinfolksHave disowned a few others and meI guess it’s becauseI kinda changed my directionLord, I guess I went and broke their family tradition
They get on me and want to knowHank, why do you drink?Hank, why do you roll smoke?Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?Over and overEverybody makes my predictionSo if I get stoned, I’m just carrying onAn old family tradition
I am very proudOf my daddy’s nameAlthough his kind of musicAnd mine ain’t exactly the sameStop and think it overPut yourself in my positionIf I get stoned and sing all night longIt’s a family tradition
So don’t ask meHank, why do you drink?Hank, why do you roll smoke?Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?If I’m down in a honky-tonkAnd some ole slick’s trying to give me frictionI’ll say leave me aloneI’m singing all night longIt’s a family tradition
Lordy, I have loved some ladiesAnd I have loved Jim BeamAnd they both tried to kill me in 1973When that doctor asked me“Son, how did you get in this condition?”I said, “Hey, SawbonesI’m just carrying on an ole family tradition”
So don’t ask meHank, why do you drink?Hank, why do roll smoke?Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?Stop and think it overTry to put yourself in my unique positionIf I get stoned and sing all night longIt’s a family tradition

Leave a Comment