Recalling the Song “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” by Barbara Mandrell

Barbara Mandrell’s hit song “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is a classic in the world of country music. Released in 1981, the song quickly climbed the charts and became one of Mandrell’s signature hits. It also helped solidify her status as one of the leading women in country music during the 1980s.

The song’s lyrics speak to Mandrell’s early years in the industry when country music wasn’t as widely accepted as it is today. Mandrell sings about how she was wearing cowboy boots before they were trendy and driving a pickup truck when it wasn’t fashionable. She also references other country icons like Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard who were pioneers in the genre.

But beyond just being an anthem for country music traditionalists, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” also showcases Mandrell’s impressive musical abilities. Her powerful vocals are on full display throughout the song, and she expertly blends elements of traditional country with pop sensibilities to create a sound that appealed to both die-hard country fans and more mainstream audiences.

Overall, “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” is a testament to Barbara Mandrell’s impact on country music. The song helped introduce her to a wider audience and cemented her status as one of the most talented and influential women in the genre. Today, nearly four decades after its release, the song remains a beloved classic among country music enthusiasts and a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of Barbara Mandrell.