“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Act Naturally” is a classic country song that has captured the hearts of music lovers for decades. Originally performed by Buck Owens, this song has a charm and simplicity that resonates with the everyday person. Its narrative of an ordinary guy suddenly becoming a star, simply by being himself, strikes a chord with anyone who has ever dreamt of fame or recognition. The storytelling aspect, combined with a catchy melody, makes it a timeless piece in Buck Owens’ musical legacy.
About The Composition
- Title: Act Naturally
- Composer: Johnny Russell and Voni Morrison
- Premiere Date: 1963
- Album/Opus/Collection: Buck Owens Sings
- Genre: Country
Background
The inception of “Act Naturally” comes from the creative minds of Johnny Russell and Voni Morrison. Released in 1963, the song quickly became one of Buck Owens’ signature hits. Its cheerful and humorous take on the idea of becoming a movie star by simply “acting naturally” was both relatable and entertaining to audiences of the time. Buck Owens’ cover was immensely successful, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Singles chart, making it his first chart-topping single and solidifying his place in country music history.
Musical Style
Musically, “Act Naturally” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and traditional country instrumentation. The song features a prominent guitar twang, coupled with Owens’ distinctive vocal delivery. This combination creates a lively and engaging sound that is quintessentially country, yet accessible to a broader audience.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Act Naturally” tell a charming story of a man who believes he could become a movie star simply by being himself. The narrative humorously explores themes of aspiration and self-acceptance, with a light-hearted tone that adds to the song’s appeal. The clever use of wordplay and storytelling is a standout feature of the song, making it memorable and relatable.
Performance History
“Act Naturally” has been performed by numerous artists over the years, including a notable cover by The Beatles in 1965, with Ringo Starr on vocals. This version introduced the song to a wider audience and added to its popularity. Buck Owens himself continued to perform the song throughout his career, often making it a highlight of his live shows.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Act Naturally” is significant, as it helped to bridge the gap between country music and mainstream pop culture. The Beatles’ cover brought the song into the global spotlight, showing its crossover appeal. The song has appeared in various media, including films and television, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Legacy
Today, “Act Naturally” remains an enduring piece of musical history. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics continue to captivate new generations of listeners. As a testament to Buck Owens’ influence on the genre, the song is frequently referenced and covered by artists across different musical styles.
Conclusion
“Act Naturally” is more than just a country hit; it is a timeless narrative that continues to inspire and entertain. Whether you’re a fan of Buck Owens or discovering his music for the first time, this song is a perfect entry point into the world of classic country. I encourage you to explore its various renditions and experience the joy and humor that “Act Naturally” brings to music lovers everywhere.
Video
Lyrics
They’re gonna put me in the movies
They’re gonna make a big star out of me
We’ll make the film about a man that’s sad and lonely
And all I gotta do is act naturally
Well, I’ll bet you I’m a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie’s gonna make me a big star
‘Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
Then I’ll know that you will plainly see
Biggest fool that’s ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally
We’ll make the scene about a man that’s sad and lonely
And begging down upon his bended knee
I’ll play the part but I won’t need rehearsing
All I have to do is act naturally
Well, I’ll bet you I’m a gonna be a big star
Might win an Oscar, you can never tell
The movie’s gonna make me a big star
‘Cause I can play the part so well
Well, I hope you come and see me in the movie
And then I’ll know that you will plainly see
The biggest fool that’s ever hit the big time
And all I gotta do is act naturally