Introduction
Buck Owens’s “Act Naturally”: A Bakersfield Hit with Hollywood Ties
Buck Owens’s “Act Naturally” might sound like a lighthearted country shuffle on the surface, but its path to becoming a chart-topping hit is paved with interesting twists and turns. Buckle up, partners, as we delve into the history of this Bakersfield classic.
Originally penned by songwriter Johnny Russell, “Act Naturally” wasn’t always destined for Buck Owens’s signature Bakersfield sound. Russell initially presented the song to Owens, but the country star wasn’t immediately sold. Voni Morrison, another songwriter in Owens’s circle, recognized the song’s potential and championed it, eventually convincing Owens to give it a shot.
The rest, as they say, is history. Owens recorded “Act Naturally” in 1963, backed by his band The Buckaroos. The song’s infectious melody, Owens’s distinctive vocals, and the band’s tight harmonies proved to be a winning combination. “Act Naturally” became Owens’s first number one hit on the Billboard Country Singles chart, spending four non-consecutive weeks at the top spot.
The song’s success transcended the country charts. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about a small-town boy trying to impress a Hollywood starlet caught the attention of The Beatles. Legend has it that the Fab Four were inspired by “Act Naturally” to experiment with a country sound on their own song “I Wanna Be Your Man.”
“Act Naturally” wasn’t just a hit; it became a signature tune for Buck Owens. The song’s legacy extends beyond Owens himself. Ringo Starr, drummer for The Beatles, later paid homage to the song by recording a duet version with Owens himself in 1989.
So, the next time you hear “Act Naturally,” remember the story behind it. It’s a tale of perseverance, a touch of Hollywood influence, and a whole lot of Bakersfield twang.