Embracing Humility with a Twist: Mac Davis’s 1980 Classic “It’s Hard to be Humble”
In the landscape of country music during the spring of 1980, Mac Davis introduced a song that not only captured listeners with its catchy tune but also delivered a humorous take on self-admiration. “It’s Hard to be Humble” emerged from Davis’s LP Hard To Be Humble, striking a chord internationally and illustrating the quirky, self-deprecating humor that often characterizes the best of country music. The song’s playful arrogance wrapped in a catchy melody made it an unforgettable track of its time, allowing it to resonate across borders and generations.
The genesis of the song lies in its straightforward, yet profoundly ironic lyrics which Mac Davis delivers with a charismatic and somewhat cheeky tone. The lyrics, “Oh Lord it’s hard to be humble, when you’re perfect in every way,” instantly set the tone for a light-hearted reflection on the pitfalls of egotism. This tongue-in-cheek approach to discussing the human ego made the song relatable, embedding it firmly in the hearts of many listeners.
Upon its release, “It’s Hard to be Humble” didn’t just gain traction in the United States; it became an international hit. The song’s universal theme of the struggle with humility and the ironic acknowledgment of one’s faults helped it cross cultural boundaries. Its catchy, upbeat rhythm paired with lyrics that mix sincerity with jest allowed it to appeal to a wide audience, ensuring its place on various international charts.
In Ireland, a version by T.R. Dallas also received significant acclaim, becoming a Top 20 hit during the fall of 1980. This version further underscored the song’s versatility and universal appeal, adapting its style slightly to fit the musical tastes of the Irish audience. Additionally, the song found new life in different languages and regions. In the Netherlands, Peter Blanker translated the song to Dutch, releasing “‘t Is moeilijk bescheiden te blijven,” which climbed into the top 10 hits, demonstrating the song’s adaptability and the universal resonance of its themes.
Other notable covers include Rolf Harris and Willie Nelson, the latter adding his distinctive style to the song in 2019, decades after its initial release. Nelson’s rendition revisited the classic with a seasoned perspective, perhaps adding layers of reflection on fame and personal growth over time.
Moreover, the song’s influence extended beyond just covers; it inspired adaptations in other languages, proving its lyrical prowess. Peter Petrel’s German version “Ich bin viel zu bescheiden” is another testament to how humor and self-reflection transcend linguistic barriers, bringing diverse audiences to a common ground of musical enjoyment and reflection.
As we revisit “It’s Hard to be Humble” by Mac Davis, it serves not only as a nostalgic journey back to the sounds of 1980 but also as a timeless reminder of the comedic yet earnest human condition. Mac Davis managed to create a piece that is both reflective and entertaining, ensuring its place in the annals of country music and beyond as a song that humorously critiques yet cherishes the human ego.