Which Record Label Released Hank Williams Jr.'s "A Country Boy Can Survive": The Complete History
"A Country Boy Can Survive" was released by Hank Williams Jr. through Warner Bros. Records/Curb Records in January 1982. The song appeared on his album "The Pressure Is On," which was distributed through these major record labels during a significant period in country music history.
Warner Bros. Records, now known as Warner Records, served as the primary label for this iconic release. The label, founded in 1958, has been a major player in the music industry and has represented numerous country artists throughout its history. During the early 1980s, Warner Bros. Records maintained a strong presence in Nashville's country music scene.
Curb Records also played a crucial role in the song's release through a partnership agreement. Founded by Mike Curb in 1963, Curb Records has been particularly influential in country music, serving as either primary label or distribution partner for many significant country releases.
The song's success on these labels was remarkable, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This achievement helped cement both Warner Bros. Records' and Curb Records' positions as leading forces in country music distribution during the 1980s.
The recording took place at Nashville's Sound Emporium Studios, with Jimmy Bowen serving as producer. The studio production quality and marketing support from these major labels contributed significantly to the song's enduring popularity and cultural impact.
Today, the master recordings are still controlled by Warner Bros. Records, while various licensing agreements involve Curb Records for certain distribution rights. The song continues to generate revenue through streaming platforms and licensing deals, managed through these record labels' current operations.
For collectors and enthusiasts, original vinyl pressings from Warner Bros. Records are particularly valued, with the label's distinctive shield logo and catalog number BSK 3669 marking authentic first releases from 1982.