Hank Williams Jr. Album: “Greatest Hits, Vol. 1 [Curb]”

Even though trendy folks like Gretchen Wilson and Big And Rich are abusively gripping to his coattails, you have to remember that Hank, Jr. wasn't always the popular kid on the Nashville schoolbus. It took them years to recognize him as a true performer who stood on his own. Perhaps it was having to deal with the shadow of his father, or just that Nashville didn't want him to be a popular act, Bocephus never received his due until he was well into his career.

Hank, Jr. remedied the problem of being the outcast in Nashville by doing what so many artists can't do: be himself. Sure, he's loud, a little too honest, and just a flat-out hellraiser, but that's what folks like to hear. That's what has staying power.

This disc, which features Bocephus' biggest hits from the late 70's/early 80's, is loaded with enough attitude to shake up even the biggest poser in Nashville. Things open up with "Family Tradition," the song that is a legend unto itself in bars and honky-tonks across the USA. Next we have "Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound," "Women I've Never Had," and seven more instantly recognizable hits. My personal favorites include "Texas Women"(maybe 'cause I married one), and "Dixie On My Mind."

The biggest song on this disc has to be "A Country Boy Can Survive." It's the song that has spawned countless arguments over what would happen if the world fell apart tomorrow. It has empowered the good, bad, and ugly of the rural world. It makes city boys quiver in their metrosexual underpants. In short, it is one of the most popular songs ever put out there. It's influence is still felt today in acts like Montgomery Gentry and even Kid Rock.

In closing, buy this disc if you want real rebel country. Folks who like music by artists like Waylon Jennings will probably like this. Also, youngsters who enjoy Kid Rock need to check this out since without Hank, Kid Rock might have turned out to be another Vanilla Ice.

Give Bocephus his due, he's an integral part of the Country/Southern rock genre.

This is a greatest hits package, but it's also the best country album of all time. Hank Jr. is a true legend, and new country artists could learn a thing or two from him. These songs put new country "hits" to shame!! Keep rockin', Bocephus!

I have met a few people in Alabama that know Hank and used to hang out with him. Back then, he didn't have a record deal and played in on an old farm for free, just to get people to listen. No fluff there. He would sit out on the porch and just play with the people that showed up. He got so popular, that they built a set of bleachers for people to sit on. That is the Hank that is the real deal. So, he is singing about stuff he knows. This CD puts together some of his best compilations.

This CD may not be for everybody; yet, pretty damn close. Fell in love with an American Dream, then All My Rowdy Friends. Still enjoy getting drunk and getting loud(at 54), amazing how many people look down at their noses at rowdiness anymore. Being an outdoor person, Country Boy Can Survive hits home. With the status of life in America, one may want to take lessons from a Country Boy. All songs are worth listening to !! Being a heavy metal/classic rock bass player, I was shocked at how this CD grew on me. One of my favorites. Hell; I am even thinking about looking into a steel guitar. A neighbor of 19 who is into rap, fell in love with this CD as well. For those that truly enjoy great music, for those that enjoy the TRUTH, for those that like to get loud; this CD is a MUST !!

This CD brings back many memories of my youth. THis is one CD anyone would want to have in their collection if you are a Hank Jr. Fan