Are you sure Hank done it this way?
Sam Williams, the son of Hank Williams Jr., half-brother of Hank III, and grandson of the legendary Hank Williams, released a new song today and saying it’s a sonic change up from what we’re used to hearing from the Williams family would be an understatement. That’s not to say it isn’t good but it’s a full on country-rap song that will absolutely differentiate himself from what has to be a sea of expectations leveled on him ever since he struck out on the music path.
Titled “COUNTRYSTAR”, it’s a song about, well, being himself, not tied down by any preconceived notions of what his music should sound like, while also claiming to be a star all on his own. The lyrics flip from bragging to vulnerable at a moment’s notice, and funny enough, he fires a shot at Mason Ramsey, who first went viral thanks to that incredible Walmart yodeling video…
Wishing on a country star
You’ll remember who you are
When your eyes lock with mine
From afar at the bar
I’m a country star still blue collar
Wouldn’t ever care about an unfollow
Wasn’t green hills I grew up in the holler
Highway 79 …
Competition why yes I would love some
You could pay me in respect or lump sum
I’m Hank Willy in the flesh, no Walmart Boy
Yeah I’m emo with the sex no Fallout Boy
Again, just because it’s not for me doesn’t mean it’s bad and there’s a nice flow and catchy melody to this one, but some of those lyrics are… interesting. Honestly, what does Mason Ramsey have to do with this? Just because he went viral singing Hank songs in a Walmart?
It’s hilarious, no doubt about it, but seems a bit late to be dropping his name for notoriety (not like he needs it given his lineage.)
This is the first single from his upcoming Act II: COUNTRYSTAR project, which comes after Act I: Scarlet Lonesome released in June of last year. While he may be best known for his killer “Weatherman” cover, it’s clear Sam wants to branch out and explore all the genres of music that interest him.
Williams spoke about writing the song in a press release:
“Writing ‘COUNTRYSTAR’ was a liberating experience for me. It sets the vibe for all of Act II. It’s confident and layered with complex emotions. I can’t wait for all these songs to be yours.”
He added the following in an Instagram post earlier today:
“Bought the bit and flipped the script… I grew weary of the pain songs, ran for my life a bit, looked inside and found a new sound that’s still all me. Welcome to the next chapter”
It sure seems like this version of Sam Williams isn’t going anywhere soon, and honestly, good for him. I can’t imagine growing up not only in your father’s larger than life shadow, but your grandfather’s (who’s regarded as perhaps the greatest country artist of all-time) and step-brother’s (Hank III built himself a rabidly loyal following), so you can’t blame him for wanting to go in the complete opposite direction sonically, if only for a quick foray. The pressure to live up to the Williams name almost killed his father, Hank Jr.
The comments on his posts have been overwhelmingly positive so this seems to have struck a positive chord with his fans. I wish nothing but the best for Sam, but I’ll still be listening to “Weatherman” when I need a Sam Williams fix.
