Barbara Mandrell – I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool

You’ve heard the line, but do you know the story behind “Barbara Mandrell – I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool”? There’s more to this anthem than just a catchy tune. In fact, this song helped define not only a singer’s legacy but a cultural shift in Country Music itself. Let’s dive into why this song still matters.

When Was “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” Released?

The song “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” was recorded live at the Roy Acuff Theater in Nashville in 1981. It was included on her album “Barbara Mandrell Live.” The single was released in April 1981 and quickly climbed the charts. By July, it had reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and #14 on Canadian RPM Country Tracks.

The track was written by Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan, two of Nashville’s top songwriters at the time. The producer behind it was Tom Collins, who also worked with Ronnie Milsap and other big names in Country Music.

What’s the Song About?

“I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is more than just a statement — it’s a proud declaration. The song is about staying true to your roots, even when it’s not popular. Mandrell sings about listening to country music, wearing boots, and driving a pickup long before it became a trend. It’s a reminder that being “country” isn’t a fashion — it’s a way of life.

The lyrics struck a chord with fans who had watched country go from a niche genre to mainstream fame. And let’s not forget — George Jones joins in near the end of the song, making it even more iconic.

Who Is Barbara Mandrell?

Barbara Mandrell was already a country superstar by 1981. Born in Texas, she started her career as a steel guitar prodigy before turning to singing. She’s known for her mix of traditional country with pop influences, and for her high-energy stage shows. Throughout her career, she scored over 30 Top 10 hits and won numerous awards, including “Entertainer of the Year” from the CMA — twice.

“Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” captured a moment when country music was changing. It gave a voice to longtime fans and artists who helped build the genre before it hit the mainstream. Even today, it stands as a badge of honor for anyone who loved country before it was cool.

Whether you’re new to Barbara Mandrell or a longtime fan of Country Music, this song is a must-listen. It’s not just music — it’s history set to a steel guitar.

COUNTRYPEDIA

Barbara Mandrell – I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool Lyrics

I remember wearing straight leg Levis, flannel shirts
Even when they weren’t in style
I remember singing with Roy Rogers at the movies
When the West was really wild
And I was listening to the Opry
When all of my friends were digging rock n’ roll and rhythm and blues
I was country when country wasn’t cool

I remember circling the drive-in
Pulling up and turning down George Jones
I remember when no one was looking
I was putting peanuts in my Coke
I took a lot of kidding, ’cause I never did fit in
Now look at everybody trying to be what I was then
I was country when country wasn’t cool

I was country when country wasn’t cool
I was country from my hat down to my boots
I still act and look the same
What you see ain’t nothing new
I was country when country wasn’t cool

They call us country bumpkins for sticking to our roots
I’m just glad we’re in a country when we’re all free to choose
I was country when country wasn’t cool

Hey, I was country when country wasn’t cool
Yeah, I was country from my hat down to, whoa, my boots
I still act and look the same
What you see ain’t nothing new
I was country when country wasn’t cool
Yeah, I was country when country wasn’t cool

GENIUS