About The Song
“Redneck Woman” is an energetic and defiant country song performed by American singer Gretchen Wilson. Released in 2004, the song quickly became an anthem for proud, working-class women and established Wilson as a force in country music.
Background and Release
- Artist: Gretchen Wilson
- Album: Here for the Party
- Release Date: March 15, 2004
- Label: Epic Records
Songwriters and Production
- Written by: Gretchen Wilson, John Rich
- Produced by: Mark Wright, Joe Scaife
Musical Style and Themes
“Redneck Woman” is a high-energy country rock song with a gritty, honky-tonk vibe. The song features electric guitars, a strong beat, and Wilson’s powerful, twangy vocals. The lyrics celebrate the singer’s identity as a “redneck woman,” proudly embracing her rural roots and rejecting the pressures to conform to more refined or mainstream standards. The song highlights themes of authenticity, self-acceptance, and pride in one’s background, resonating with many who share a similar upbringing or values.
Chart Performance
The song achieved significant success on various music charts:
- Billboard Hot Country Songs: Reached number one
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 22
Impact and Legacy
“Redneck Woman” became a breakout hit for Gretchen Wilson, solidifying her status as a prominent voice in country music. The song’s unapologetic celebration of rural, working-class culture struck a chord with audiences and earned Wilson a dedicated fan base. Its relatable message and infectious energy made it an anthem for many, particularly women who identified with its themes of empowerment and pride.
Music Video
The music video for “Redneck Woman,” directed by David Hogan, features Gretchen Wilson performing at a rowdy bar and interacting with various “redneck” characters enjoying their lifestyle. The video complements the song’s themes by showcasing scenes of everyday rural life, including driving trucks, fishing, and partying, reinforcing the celebration of a down-to-earth, unpretentious way of living.
Awards and Recognition
“Redneck Woman” received widespread acclaim and several awards, including:
- Grammy Awards: Best Female Country Vocal Performance (2005)
- CMA Awards: Horizon Award (2004)
- ACM Awards: Top New Artist (2004)
Legacy
Years after its release, “Redneck Woman” remains one of Gretchen Wilson’s most popular and enduring songs. Its anthem-like quality and powerful message continue to resonate, making it a staple in country music playlists and a favorite among fans. The song’s success paved the way for Wilson’s subsequent hits and contributed to her lasting impact on the country music genre.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Well, I ain’t never been the Barbie doll type
No, I can’t swig that sweet Champagne, I’d rather drink beer all night
In a tavern or in a honky tonk or on a four-wheel drive tailgate
I’ve got posters on my wall of Skynyrd, Kid and Strait
Some people look down on me, but I don’t give a rip
I’ll stand barefooted in my own front yard with a baby on my hip
‘Cause I’m a redneck woman
I ain’t no high class broad
I’m just a product of my raising
I say, “hey ya’ll” and “yee-haw”
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every Charlie Daniels song
So here’s to all my sisters
Out there keeping it country
Let me get a big “hell yeah”
From the redneck girls like me
Hell yeah (Hell yeah)
Victoria’s Secret, well their stuff’s real nice
Oh, but I can buy the same damn thing on a Wal-Mart shelf half price
And still look sexy
Just as sexy as those models on TV
No, I don’t need no designer tag
To make my man want me
You might think I’m trashy, a little too hardcore
But in my neck of the woods I’m just the girl next door
I’m a redneck woman
I ain’t no high class broad
I’m just a product of my raising
I say, “hey y’all” and “yee-haw”
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every Tanya Tucker song
So here’s to all my sisters
Out there keeping it country
Let me get a big “hell yeah”
From the redneck girls like me
Hell yeah (Hell yeah)
I’m a redneck woman
I ain’t no high class broad
I’m just a product of my raising
And I say, “hey y’all” and “yee-haw”
And I keep my Christmas lights on
On my front porch all year long
And I know all the words to every ol’ Bocephus song
So here’s to all my sisters out there keeping it country
Let me get a big “hell yeah”
From the redneck girls like me (Hell yeah)
Hell yeah (Hell yeah)
Hell yeah (Hell yeah)
I said hell yeah
