About The Song
Background
“Humble And Kind” was released in January 2016 by country music superstar Tim McGraw. It served as the second single from his album Damn Country Music. The song was written by Lori McKenna, a prolific songwriter known for her poignant country ballads.
According to McKenna, the inspiration for the song struck while she was picking up her kids from school. She witnessed a group of teenagers and noticed how their behavior could be shaped by strong moral values. She envisioned Tim McGraw as the perfect artist to deliver this message, and pitched the song to him.
Musical Style
“Humble And Kind” is a ballad, a slower tempo song that emphasizes melody and lyrics over a driving beat. The instrumentation features a prominent acoustic guitar, along with gentle backing from piano, drums, and subtle strings. McGraw’s vocals are sincere and expressive, conveying the weight and importance of the lyrics.
The song is rooted in classic country music, with a simple yet effective arrangement that allows the message to take center stage.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Humble And Kind” are a powerful call for empathy, compassion, and living a decent life. The song is structured as a series of instructions and observations, delivered from a parental figure to a child.
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Respect and Humility: The song emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect, regardless of their background or social status. Lines like “Turn down the radio, and hold your mama’s hand” and “Don’t you dare talk back to your teacher” promote good manners and deference to authority figures.
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Empathy and Kindness: The chorus pleads for acts of kindness, urging the listener to “start with yourself” and “make this world a kinder place.” The message extends beyond politeness, encouraging the listener to understand the struggles of others and offer help when possible.
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Strength and Integrity: The song doesn’t shy away from encouraging strength and resilience. Lines like “Don’t be afraid to cry” and “When you get knocked down, dust yourself off” promote perseverance and emotional honesty. However, this strength is always coupled with the idea of using it for good, not for aggression.
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Simple Living: The song celebrates the value of a simple life, urging the listener to “watch the sunrise” and “appreciate what you have.” It critiques materialism and the pursuit of excessive wealth.
Cultural Impact
“Humble And Kind” became an instant sensation upon release, resonating deeply with listeners across generations. The song topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart and reached number one on the Hot Country Songs chart. It also achieved mainstream success, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song’s positive message struck a chord with a society increasingly divided by social and political issues. “Humble And Kind” became an anthem for those yearning for civility and kindness in a world that often seemed harsh and unforgiving.
The song’s impact extended beyond music. McGraw performed the song at numerous charity events, and it was adopted by educators and parents as a tool to teach children about positive values. The song’s title was even used on merchandise and inspirational quotes, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Conclusion
“Humble And Kind” is more than just a country music hit; it’s a timeless message about the importance of living a decent and compassionate life. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to a deep human desire for kindness, empathy, and respect. Through its simple yet powerful lyrics and sincere delivery, “Humble And Kind” continues to inspire people to be better versions of themselves and create a more positive world.
Additional Notes
- The song won two Grammy Awards in 2017: Best Country Song and Best Solo Performance – Country Song.
- A music video for the song features footage of everyday people exemplifying the song’s message.
- “Humble And Kind” has been covered by numerous artists, further extending its reach and impact.