What You Think
Rebel Son
Rebel Son's Anthem of Defiance: A Clash of Cultures
Rebel Son's song "What You Think" is a raw and unapologetic declaration of pride in a working-class, rural lifestyle. The lyrics draw a stark contrast between the lives of the so-called 'backwoods boys' and the affluent, urban elite. The song criticizes the wealthy for their perceived arrogance and detachment from the realities of hard work and simple living. The narrator takes pride in his manual labor, his connection to the land, and his straightforward, no-nonsense approach to life. This is a celebration of blue-collar values and a rejection of materialism and social status.
The song employs vivid imagery and strong language to emphasize the divide between these two worlds. The narrator describes his daily routine of wearing beat-up clothes and working with his hands, contrasting it with the image of the wealthy in their suits and ties. The repeated references to drinking beer, shooting deer, and driving an old truck serve to highlight the simplicity and authenticity of his lifestyle. The chorus reinforces this message, with the narrator proudly declaring that he doesn't care about the stock market or luxury, and that he is content with his life as it is.
Cultural references abound in the song, from the mention of the Grand Ole Opry to the disdain for Wall Street and luxury cars. These references ground the song in a specific cultural context, one that values tradition, self-reliance, and community over wealth and status. The song's defiant tone and explicit language underscore the narrator's frustration with being looked down upon by the wealthy, and his determination to live life on his own terms. "What You Think" is a powerful anthem of defiance and pride, celebrating the resilience and authenticity of the working class.