Hank And Lefty Raised My Country Soul

Stoney Edwards' song "Hank And Lefty Raised My Country Soul" is a heartfelt tribute to the profound influence that country legends Hank Williams and Lefty Frizzell had on his life and musical upbringing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young boy, around ten years old, riding in his father's 1941 Ford, listening to the timeless tunes of Hank and Lefty on the radio. These moments were not just about enjoying music; they were formative experiences that shaped Edwards' musical identity and emotional landscape.

The song is rich with nostalgia and reverence, highlighting specific songs like "Why Don't You Love Me Like You Used to Do" and "Just Look What Thoughts Will Do," which were staples in his early musical education. Edwards learned to sing and even shuffle his shoes to the rhythm of these classic country hits. The mention of "cutting his teeth" on songs like "Always Late" and "I Love You A Thousand Ways" underscores the deep, almost familial connection he felt with these artists, despite never having met them.

Edwards also shares poignant memories of his father, whose emotional reactions to Hank Williams' songs, such as "Mom And Dad's Waltz," added another layer of significance to these musical experiences. The imagery of his father's neck hair crawling when Hank sang about the light he saw speaks to the powerful, almost spiritual impact of the music. Through these personal anecdotes, Edwards conveys how Hank and Lefty's music not only entertained but also deeply moved and inspired him, ultimately raising his country soul.