Introduction
It’s My Lazy Day: A Country Classic for the Weary Soul
“It’s My Lazy Day,” a playful ode to taking a break, is a song synonymous with June Carter Cash, the “Mother of Country Music.” While there’s no definitive record of who wrote it, the song became a staple in the Carter Family repertoire during the 1950s.
The earliest documented performances credit “It’s My Lazy Day” to the entire Carter Family, including matriarch Maybelle Carter on guitar and vocals, and daughters Anita and June singing harmony. Live footage from 1952 shows a young June taking the lead vocal on the Grand Ole Opry stage [YouTube: June Carter – It’s My Lazy Day – 1952 – NBC-TV].
The song’s simple charm lies in its relatable lyrics. The singer declares it’s “my lazy day,” a day for forgoing chores and social obligations in favor of pure relaxation. The playful defiance in lines like “Ain’t takin’ no orders and won’t do no pleadin'” resonate with anyone who’s ever craved a day of pure leisure.
“It’s My Lazy Day” transcended generations within the Carter Family. Live performances from the 1960s show June continuing to sing the lead, with Anita and even Mother Maybelle joining in on the harmonies [YouTube: Maybelle & The Carter Sisters – It’s My Lazy Day (Live 1961)].
While June Carter Cash is most associated with the song today, “It’s My Lazy Day” remains a testament to the enduring legacy of the Carter Family, a family band that brought joy and humor to audiences for decades. So, put your feet up, crank up the classic country twang, and let June Carter Cash remind you that sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is absolutely nothing at all.