Introduction:
In the summer of 2004, George Strait, the undisputed king of neotraditional country music, released a song that captured a sentiment perhaps not always expected from the genre: frustration with the modern world. “I Hate Everything”, the lead single for his compilation album 50 Number Ones, offered a relatable look at the annoyances of everyday life, albeit with a signature Strait twist of subtle humor and a laid-back Texas charm.
Strait, known for his smooth baritone vocals and his unwavering commitment to the classic country sound, had built a career on portraying relatable characters facing everyday struggles. “I Hate Everything” continued this tradition, but with a contemporary twist. While country music often glorifies small-town life and traditional values, “I Hate Everything” offered a glimpse into the grumbling of a character weary of the fast pace and technological intrusions of the 21st century.
The song, written by Keith Stegall and Gary Harrison, perfectly captured this frustration. Though the title might suggest an all-encompassing rage, the lyrics delve into specific pet peeves – traffic jams, cell phones ringing in inappropriate places, and the overall feeling of being overwhelmed by modern life. Strait’s delivery, however, remains characteristically mellow, his voice laced with a hint of amusement as he sings about these modern annoyances.
“I Hate Everything” was produced by Tony Brown, a longtime collaborator of Strait’s who was known for his ability to blend traditional country instrumentation with a modern production sheen. The song’s success wasn’t overwhelming, peaking at number 41 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. However, “I Hate Everything” became a minor hit and a fan favorite, showing a different side of Strait while still staying true to his roots.
The song’s legacy lies in its ability to resonate with listeners. While “I Hate Everything” might not be Strait’s biggest hit, it offered a relatable sentiment – a brief moment to commiserate with the hassles of modern life, all delivered with the smooth country charm of a Texas legend.
Video:
Lyrics:
He was sitting there beside meThrowin’ doubles down, when he ordered up his third oneHe looked around, then he looked at meAnd said, I do believe I oughta have one moreHe said I hate this bar, and I hate to drink,But on second thought, tonight I think I hate everything
Then he opened up his billfold and threw a $20 downAnd a faded photograph fell out and hit the groundAnd I picked it up he said, “Thank ya bud”I put it in his hand, he said“I probably oughta throw this one away, ’cause she’s the reason I feel this way,I hate everything”
Well, I hate my job, and I hate my lifeAnd if it werent for my two kids, I’d hate my ex-wifeI know I should move on and try to start again,But I just can’t get over her leaving me for himThen he shook his head and looked down at his ring,And said I hate everything
He said, That one bedroom apartment where I get my mail,Is really not a home, it’s more like a jail,With a swimming pool and a parking lot view, “Man, it’s just great!”
I hate summer, winter, fall, and spring,Red and yellow, purple, blue and greenI hate everything
I hate my job, and I hate my lifeAnd if it werent for my two kids, I’d hate my ex-wifeI know I should move on and try to start again,But I just can’t get over her leaving me for himThen he shook his head and looked down at his ring,And said I hate everything
So I pulled out my phone and I called my houseI said, “Babe, I’m coming home, we’re gonna work this out”I payed for his drinks,And I told him thanksThanks for everything