“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the late 1940s, as America was finding its post-war rhythm, Hank Williams emerged as a defining voice in country music. His 1949 hit, “Mind Your Own Business,” not only showcased his distinctive style but also offered a candid glimpse into his personal life.
About The Composition
- Title: Mind Your Own Business
- Composer: Hank Williams
- Premiere Date: July 1949
- Album/Opus/Collection: Released as a single; later featured on various compilations
- Genre: Country, Blues, Proto-Rockabilly
Background
Recorded on March 1, 1949, at Castle Studio in Nashville, “Mind Your Own Business” was part of a prolific session that also produced tracks like “You’re Gonna Change (Or I’m Gonna Leave)” and “My Son Calls Another Man Daddy.” Williams was accompanied by talented musicians, including Dale Potter on fiddle and Don Davis on steel guitar. The song’s lyrics reflect Williams’ tumultuous relationship with his wife, Audrey, addressing themes of gossip and personal privacy. Upon its release, the song resonated with audiences, reaching No. 6 on the Country & Western Best Seller list.
Musical Style
“Mind Your Own Business” features a straightforward country-blues structure, with a catchy melody and rhythmic guitar strumming. Williams’ laconic vocal delivery, combined with the band’s tight instrumentation, creates an engaging and relatable sound. The song’s humor and candidness contribute to its enduring appeal.
Lyrics
The lyrics serve as a direct admonition to those who meddle in others’ affairs, with lines like, “If the wife and I are fussin’, brother that’s our right.” This candid approach offers insight into Williams’ personal experiences, making the song both personal and universally relatable.
Performance History
Over the years, “Mind Your Own Business” has been covered by various artists, including Hank Williams Jr., who, in 1986, collaborated with Reba McEntire, Tom Petty, Reverend Ike, and Willie Nelson to create a version that topped the country charts for two weeks. This rendition introduced the song to a new generation, highlighting its timeless relevance.
Cultural Impact
The song’s straightforward message about personal boundaries has made it a cultural touchstone, referenced in discussions about privacy and individualism. Its influence extends beyond music, resonating with audiences who value personal autonomy.
Legacy
“Mind Your Own Business” remains a significant piece in Hank Williams’ repertoire, exemplifying his ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes. Its enduring popularity underscores Williams’ impact on country music and his talent for capturing the complexities of human relationships.
Conclusion
Hank Williams’ “Mind Your Own Business” is a testament to his songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. Its catchy melody and candid lyrics continue to resonate, inviting new audiences to appreciate its timeless message.
Video
Lyrics
There’s a little master piece of nonsense
I wrote here couple of years ago, three years ago
That suit me
Lot of folks request this for other folks
Nobody hardly ever request this for they-selves
Thank you
Here it is
If you mind your business
You won’t have time
To be fooling around with mine, uh, let’s go
If the wife and I are fussin’, brother that’s our right
‘Cause me and that sweet woman’s got a license to fight
Why don’t you mind your own business?
Mind your own business
‘Cause if you mind your business, then you won’t be mindin’ mine
Oh, the woman on our party line’s the nosiest thing
She picks up her receiver when she knows it’s my ring
Why don’t you mind your own business?
Mind your own business
Well, if you mind your business, then you won’t be mindin’ mine
Well, I got a little gal, she wears her hair up high
The boys all whistle when she walks by
Why don’t they mind their own business?
Mind your own business
Well, if you mind your own business, then you won’t be minding mine
If I want to honky-tonk around a-two or three
Now, brother that’s my headache, don’t you worry ’bout me
Just mind your own business
Mind your own business
‘Cause if you mind your business, then you won’t be mindin’ mine
If I get my head beat black and blue
Now that my wife and my store wood too
Why don’t you mind your own business
Mind your own business
Well, if you mind your business, then you won’t be mindin’ mine
Mindin’ other people’s business seems to be high-toned
It takes all of my time, just to mind my own
Why don’t you mind your own business?
Mind your own business
‘Cause if you mind your own business, you’ll stay busy all the time
There is the business song
I got some business here too, Hank
You got some business? (Yes)
I wanna mind everybody’s business this morning
I wanna tell them how to make better biscuits and stuff