About The Song
In the vast landscape of country music, few names resonate with the same power and recognition as Garth Brooks. With his charismatic stage presence, heartfelt vocals, and a catalog of chart-topping hits, Brooks has cemented his status as one of the genre’s all-time greats. Among his extensive repertoire, one song stands out as a true anthem for the working class: “American Honky-Tonk Bar Association.”
Released in 1993 as the second single from Brooks’ album In Pieces, “American Honky-Tonk Bar Association” is a rollicking honky-tonk number that captures the spirit of camaraderie and shared experiences found in the blue-collar community. The song’s title, a clever play on the American Bar Association, sets the tone for the lighthearted yet meaningful lyrics that celebrate the honky-tonk as a refuge and a sanctuary for those seeking solace and connection.
Brooks’ vocals soar throughout the song, imbued with an infectious energy that mirrors the lively atmosphere of a honky-tonk. The lyrics paint vivid imagery of a crowded bar filled with patrons seeking to escape the troubles of everyday life and find solace in the company of others. The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain of “We’re all members of the American Honky-Tonk Bar Association,” serves as a unifying declaration of belonging and acceptance.
“American Honky-Tonk Bar Association” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a celebration of the working class and the power of community. It’s a song that resonates with those who have found solace and camaraderie in the shared experience of a night out at the honky-tonk. Brooks’ masterful songwriting and heartfelt delivery make this song an enduring classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide.
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Lyric
If your paycheck depends onThe weather and the clockIf your conversation calls forA little more than a coffee potIf you need to pour your heart outAnd try to rectify some situationThat you’re facingContact your AmericanHonky-Tonk Bar AssociationWhen Uncle Sam dipsIn your pocketFor most things you don’t mindBut when your dollarGoes to all of thoseStanding in a welfare lineWell rejoice you have a voiceIf you’re concernedAbout the destinationOf this great nationIt’s called the AmericanHonky-Tonk Bar AssociationIt represents the hardhatGunrack, achin’-backOver taxed, flag-wavin’,Fun-lovin’ crowdThey’re heart is in the musicAnd they love to play it loudThere’s no forms or applicationsThere’s no red tape administrationsIt’s the AmericanHonky-Tonk Bar AssociationWe’re all one big familyThroughout the citiesAnd the townsWe don’t reach for handoutsWe reach for thoseWho are downAnd every local chapterHas a seven day a weekAvailable consultationFor your frustrationIt’s called the AmericanHonky-Tonk Bar AssociationIt represents the mud flapsSix pack, beer crackOver-taxed, flag-wavin’Fun-lovin’ crowdThey’re heart is in the musicAnd they love to play it loudThere’s no forms or applicationsThere’s no red tape administrationsIt’s the AmericanHonky-Tonk Bar Association