Introduction
It’s Hard to Be Humble: A Touch of Braggadocio with a Wink
“It’s Hard to Be Humble” might sound like a classic Willie Nelson tune, but the Red Headed Stranger actually donned his hat for this song much later in his career. The original version belongs to songwriter and singer Mac Davis, who released it in 1980.
The song itself is a playful paradox. The lyrics boast about undeniable attractiveness, talent, and a general aura of greatness. Lines like “I can’t wait to look in the mirror / Cause I get better looking each day” and “Some folks say that I am egotistical / I can’t argue none of it at all” paint a picture of an overinflated ego. However, the wink comes in the title and repeated line, “Oh Lord, it’s hard to be humble.” The song playfully acknowledges the absurdity of such self-importance, making it a humorous and relatable anthem for anyone who’s ever felt a little too good about themselves.
While Mac Davis’s original reached number 10 on the US Billboard Country chart, Willie Nelson’s 2019 take on the song brought a new layer to the story. Nelson, a country music legend by then, added a touch of self-deprecating charm to the already tongue-in-cheek lyrics. His version, even featuring his son Lukas Nelson, felt like a knowing nod to a long career filled with accolades and achievements.
So, when you hear “It’s Hard to Be Humble,” remember it’s all about having a little fun with self-importance. It’s a chance to laugh at ourselves and celebrate our (perhaps slightly exaggerated) awesomeness.