About The Song
Alright, let’s delve into The Oak Ridge Boys‘ “Goin’ Against the Grain.” Now, for those of us who’ve enjoyed a good stretch of life, we know that the world doesn’t always reward conformity. There’s something to be said for those who forge their own paths, those who, as the song title suggests, go against the grain. And that’s precisely what this lively tune captures.
Released in 1991, within their album “Where the Fast Lane Ends” “Goin’ Against the Grain” isn’t your typical sentimental country ballad. It’s got a real kick to it, a spirited energy that’s impossible to ignore. It’s a song that celebrates individuality, resilience, and the courage to stand up for what you believe in, even when the odds are stacked against you.
The Oak Ridge Boys, with their signature four-part harmonies, deliver this message with a blend of conviction and good-natured charm. You can almost picture them on stage, their voices ringing out with a sense of playful defiance. It’s not about being rebellious for the sake of it; it’s about staying true to yourself, even when it means swimming upstream.
The lyrics, penned by Robert Ellis Orrall and Layng Martine Jr., are filled with clever wordplay and relatable imagery. They paint a picture of a world where everyone seems to be following the same script, where conformity is the norm. But the narrator of the song, and by extension, The Oak Ridge Boys, are having none of it. They’re determined to live life on their own terms, to embrace their unique quirks and passions.
Musically, “Goin’ Against the Grain” is a delightful blend of traditional country and a touch of rock and roll. The driving rhythm and catchy melody will have you tapping your feet and singing along before you know it. And, of course, the harmonies are impeccable. The Oak Ridge Boys have a way of weaving their voices together that’s both effortless and captivating.
In a world that often pressures us to fit into a mold, “Goin’ Against the Grain” is a refreshing reminder that it’s okay to be different. It’s a celebration of individuality, a testament to the power of staying true to yourself. And, of course, it’s a darn good tune. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan of The Oak Ridge Boys or simply someone who appreciates a bit of musical inspiration, give “Goin’ Against the Grain” a listen. You might just find yourself feeling a little more inclined to march to the beat of your own drum.
Video
Lyric
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Folks call me a maverickGuess I ain’t too diplomaticI just never been the kind to go alongJust avoidin’ confrontationFor the sake of conformationAnd I’ll admit I tend toSing a different songBut sometimes you just can’t be afraidTo wear a different hatIf Columbus had compliedThis old world might still be flatNothin’ ventured, nothin’ gainedSometimes you’ve got to go against the grainWell, I have been accusedOf makin’ my own rulesThere must be rebel bloodJust a-runnin’ through my veinsBut I ain’t no hypocriteWhat you see is what you getAnd that’s the only way I knowTo play the game old Noah took much ridiculeFor building his great arkBut after forty days and forty nightsHe was lookin’ pretty smartSometimes it’s best to braveThe wind and rainBy havin’ strength to go against the grainWell, there’s more folks than a fewWho share my point of viewBut they’re worriedIf they’re gonna sink or swimThey’d like to buck the systemBut the deck is tacked against?emAnd they’re a little scaredTo go out on a limbBut if you’re gonna leave your markYou can’t follow like a bunch of sheepYou got to listen to your heartGo bustin’ in like old John WayneSometimes you got to go against the grainNothin’ ventured, nothin’ gainedSometimes you’ve got to go against the grain