About the song
“Family Tradition” by Hank Williams Jr. is a rowdy and unapologetic country anthem that directly addresses the weight and expectations of musical lineage while asserting his own distinct identity. Released in 1979, this track became one of Hank Jr.’s signature songs, clearly drawing a line between his legendary father’s legacy and his own more rebellious and hard-driving style. It’s more than just a country song; it’s a declaration of independence, a statement about forging one’s own path while acknowledging the powerful influence of heritage.
The song’s lyrics are a direct and often defiant response to the pressures of living up to the iconic status of his father, Hank Williams Sr. Hank Jr. acknowledges the “family tradition” of hard living and hard drinking, but he also asserts his own way of doing things, embracing a more rock-infused country sound and a more outspoken persona. Lines like “Why do you drink? Why do you roll smoke? Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?” directly address the comparisons and expectations placed upon him. His vocal delivery, marked by his strong, slightly slurred baritone and his defiant swagger, underscores the song’s rebellious and independent spirit. There’s a raw honesty in his voice that conveys both the burden and the pride of his lineage.
Hank Williams Jr.’s musical style in “Family Tradition” is a potent blend of traditional country instrumentation with a strong Southern rock edge. The prominent use of electric guitars, a driving rhythm section, and a more aggressive arrangement clearly differentiate his sound from his father’s more straightforward country style. The song’s energy and its somewhat defiant tone resonated with an audience that appreciated his willingness to break free from pure tradition while still honoring his roots. The production is raw and powerful, reflecting the unapologetic nature of the song’s message.
The enduring appeal of “Family Tradition” lies in its honest portrayal of the struggle to define oneself in the shadow of a legend. While specifically about Hank Jr.’s experience, the theme of navigating family expectations and forging one’s own identity is a universal one. The song’s rebellious spirit and its powerful musicality have made it an anthem for those who appreciate a more rugged and independent approach to country music.
“Family Tradition” is more than just a country hit; it’s a bold statement of artistic independence and a powerful acknowledgment of the complex relationship between legacy and individuality. It solidified Hank Williams Jr.’s own distinct place in country music history, demonstrating his willingness to honor his roots while carving his own unique path.
Video
Lyrics
Country music singers
Have always been a real close family
But lately some of my kinfolks
Have disowned a few others and me
I guess it’s because
I kinda changed my direction
Lord, I guess I went and broke their family tradition
They get on me and want to know
Hank, why do you drink?
Hank, why do you roll smoke?
Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?
Over and over
Everybody makes my prediction
So if I get stoned, I’m just carrying on
An old family tradition
I am very proud
Of my daddy’s name
Although his kind of music
And mine ain’t exactly the same
Stop and think it over
Put yourself in my position
If I get stoned and sing all night long
It’s a family tradition
So don’t ask me
Hank, why do you drink?
Hank, why do you roll smoke?
Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?
If I’m down in a honky-tonk
And some ole slick’s trying to give me friction
I’ll say leave me alone
I’m singing all night long
It’s a family tradition
Lordy, I have loved some ladies
And I have loved Jim Beam
And they both tried to kill me in 1973
When that doctor asked me
“Son, how did you get in this condition?”
I said, “Hey, Sawbones
I’m just carrying on an ole family tradition”
So don’t ask me
Hank, why do you drink?
Hank, why do roll smoke?
Why must you live out the songs that you wrote?
Stop and think it over
Try to put yourself in my unique position
If I get stoned and sing all night long
It’s a family tradition
