Good Old Boys

Just a tremendous album. It sounds like a concept album and, looking it up, turns out that was the original plan. I like Randy Newman, but Amazon's algorithms are weird and when I went looking for more of his stuff a few years ago I only found the 'Randy Newman Songbook', which is re-recordings, just him (older) and a piano. Those are okay, but this original is fabulous. 5.

Funny, moving, insightful, catchy. Almost half these songs ended up on my 1001 albums playlist. Maybe Newman’s best.

A little dated but also, a unique talent.

After Stephen Merritt, Randy Newman may be the finest living American songwriter (RIP Sondheim and Nilssen). If you only know him from his sappy film soundtrack work, "Rednecks" will certainly startle you. The dumb 70s hit "Short People" excepted, Newman manages to pull off satire and you always get the joke. You have to really know what you're doing to use the n word in a chorus and have the listener see it as an indictment of racism and not a celebration of it.

LOVED IT!! Something about Randy Newmans voice and style is so comforting and fun to listen to. Will definitely be putting this on repeat

So could a white guy get away with saying that word in 74 in the context of critique? According to about 5 critics closer to era, yes, but all of them apparently white. I'll keep searching, but check Malcolm Gladwell's Revisionist History podcast, "Good Old Boys" episode 2019 where his answer is unequivocally yes. I don't doubt there are plenty of Black commentators who disagree, I'll keep digging. But check the podcast, it's fascinating context if you at all like the album. Which I do.

Cherokee amazing

This is great. I love the social and political commentary. Randy Newman's playing and singing are also so smooth and inviting. Its cinematic but also parlor / bar music. Its impossible to hate.

Randy Newman writes beautiful tunes with clever lyrics. This one probes the "southern experience". I'd like to spend more time with the lyrics but a really nice album

One of the most meaningful satirical pieces of America and its implicit racism in music ever. A gumbo of ugliness, beauty, goofiness and brilliance.

One of my favourites. Every song is a gem.

J'aime beaucoup Randy Newman. Surtout de l'album éponyme à Little Criminals.

Discovering Randy Newman albums has been one of my favorite pleasant surprises of this project. This album (especially the opener) is way darker than expected (never thought I'd hear the guy who wrote the Toy Story music use the N word in a song). Still, it's a powerful demonstration of songwriting and creativity. Highly recommended.

Randy keeps calling me the n-word … 5/5

Thanks to Toy Story, Randy Newman is a completely underestimated and misunderstood songwriter.

Genius. Deserves 100 stars.

Randy Newman built a pretty great career by wrapping some pretty dark and terrible lyrical material with some wonderful melodies. For example, Rednecks being that catchy is fucking diabolical. It’s a good thing history came to an end thirty years ago and none of this has any continuing relevance anymore. Very much a cultural artifact that has no bearing on anything anymore, like VHS tapes and the telegraph. Presumably the people saying this hasn't aged well must not live in the United States or are in a headspace of the cultural salad days of the Obama years. Look around dingus, the Good Old Boys are running the WAR and Justice Department and the Kingfish is President. Side note: what’s a more surprising career move, Randy Newman becoming Pixar Guy or George Carlin becoming the conductor and narrator for Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends?

Although this week is highly dedicated to learning Spanish. Trying to keep up! Randy has the voice of many millennials childhood and it’s equally goofy and trustworthy. I didn’t get to fully listen but after I did my abbreviated listen and read the lyrics/album write ups.. I’m gonna put this as a new favourite find here.

thanks

As a critic said about Newman’s sarcastic criticisms of society, it’s a dirty job but literally no one has to do it. Newman is like a tragic clown, he can’t help satirising the crowd even while they misunderstand him and throw stuff at him. His liberal armchair critiques probably don’t have any real effect on his true audience apart from make them feel better about themselves. His music is somewhere between dated piano bar songs, stage musical numbers, and catchy nursery rhymes. And yet I still love him. This album, with the explosive Rednecks opener, paints a vivid picture of the south and its characters, with bravado and sadness and everything in between.

I'd give this a 10/5 if I could

super Entdeckung eines mir zu wenig bekannten Künstlers

Wtf this is Randy Newman?

Man, I just love Randy Newman. This is so smart, and beautiful, and humanely satirical.

another album by randy newman, more of his trademark voice and trademark songwriting style. this album in particular is about the south of the united states. the good, the bad, and ESPECIALLY the ugly. listeners beware, because some of this stuff is gonna make your jaw drop. despite the blunt and... seriously, i can't stress this enough. it gets ugly. despite all that, randy still shines when he writes. sometimes newman sings as himself, sometimes it's other characters. it's so beautiful when it comes to how the instruments are laid out, but the lyrics add this... contradictory, almost opposite energy. it's a true satire. unafraid to expose listeners to how it was, and during the time... how it is. it's a beautiful, beautiful mess.

Biting, devastating, hilarious. All of the feelings with this album.

Great album. I was waiting for the song "you got a friend in me" as an album finisher😆

Easy listening.

A real gem

"Good Old Boys" is the fourth studio album by American musician Randy Newman. Roots rock and country rock are the Wiki-listed genres. The album was initially written to a concept album about, Johnny Cutler, an everyman of the Deep South but the points of view ended up being from different people from the South. Themes include taboo subjects such as slavery and racism. Newman was the lead vocalist, composer, arranger and keyboardist. A host of other musicians were used including Ry Cooder (guitarists), Al Perkins (pedal steel guitar) and members of the Eagles on backing vocals. The album was Newman's first to be commercially successful reaching #36 on the US charts. It has received wide-spread critical acclaim. The album begins with the satirical "Rednecks." Piano, drums and and orchestra. The lyrics are from the point of view of Southerner Johnny Cutler as he watches a tv show where Georgia politician Lester Maddox being mocked by Northerners. He chants about being a redneck. A certain word is used multiple times that Newman probably wishes he could take back.. Newman takes aim at North liberal hypocrisy too as he comments on their siloing Blacks to specifics areas of cities. "Guilty" was a song Newman originally gave to Bonnie Raitt. And, hey, he gives us a waltz. Maybe autobiographical as he sings about not being able to or wanting to give up drinking or drugs. "Louisiana 1927" opens with strings and a softer voice. It's a song about the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927. A melancholy song but also a grand one with the strings. Newman spent significant time in New Orleans as a kid and there's a motif of the North trying to wash New Orleans away. The string of Louisiana songs continues with the ragtime "Everyman a King" which was an actual song written by the late 1920's through 1930's Louisiana politician Huey Long. This version has a chorus of people singing. The three-song Louisiana trilogy culminates with "King Fish." More bouncy with horns. It's told from Huey Long's point of view as he promises shared wealth if he is elected to people who share his beliefs. Hmmmmm. Hmmmm. First off, Newman's musical arrangement and production are excellent. You can see why he would be successful at soundtracks. But, this album is really about Newman's satirical lyrics and storytelling. There's probably no way an album like this gets written and recorded today. Yes, there is one song which would be rewritten replacing a word, may be several words. There's also the fact that I don't think there's many lyricists as talented as Randy Newman. Humorous, candid, controversial, heartfelt, political, satirical and often brilliant. Newman might use the South as a sounding board but he's really going after universal bigger items such as racism, slavery and blind faith politics. This is a great album and one where people might have differing opinions but find nonetheless less very compelling.

What do I see in the reviews? Lots of 1 star reviews. Why? For the use of a word in the first song. Tell me you've missed the point without telling me you've missed the point! People missing the point and then going apeshit is nothing new however. (see the wikipedia article on the song You've Got To Be Carefully Taught from South Pacific for a 75 year old example). This is an excelent album with great music and even greater insightful lyrics about a bygone era. In some cases it is good things are different now in most however it is not. Then there are the things that stay the same (see Mr President (Have Pity on the Working Man)). This totally deserves a rare 5 star rating (16th 5 star rating out of 414 albums listened to)

As if a Muppet wanted to be a human. I rather love him.

I loved this!!!!

Starting the album with Rednecks locked in a 4 regardless of what the rest of the album was like but no one blends beautiful music and cutting wit as well as Randy Newman. Thank you Toy Story for starting me on good music so young

Good discovery

You hear all about what American songwriting is famous for. Great stuff.

Man I get that he’s taking on a character but I was not ready to hear the Pixar guy drop so many hard r’s. He’s a musical genius, he really has mastered the sound he’s going for, but Jesus Christ what an off putting intro. Birmingham is charming and Marie is a beautiful love song. Guilty is so good, the out of key, leading note harmonies in the woodwinds are genius. Louisiana is beautiful my god this album is good. Kingfish continues the weird tonality with that little chromatic walk and moves into a 10/10 Randy Newman little jaunt. Rest of the album continues to just be so well written and fun, I get why all the Pixar movies sound like him, it’s so good. Turning a blind eye to the slurs in the first song (and a couple more throughout), this man is a musical genius and an extremely talented orchestrator, give this man a 5. I will attempt to spend my love within her. But though I try with all my might, she will laugh at my mighty sword. She will laugh at my mighty sword. Why must everyone laugh at my mighty sword?

----"According to a widely cited analysis on Reddit, 'Rednecks' uses the n-word eight times - plus one use of the milder "Negro""---- chatgpt Crazy intro to the the album. It honestly took my entire focus off of the song. Anyways, this album is fucking awesome. I'll never laugh at your mighty sword, Randy.

This is in the top echelon of storytelling albums. There’s John Prine and there’s this album. Only one bugs life, and that’s my man newman. Does he say the n word on this album a couple times, yes he does. He also has a friend in me. Is this some goofy shit, yes but got dang does this do it for this cracker. These songs are so good, he’s such a good songwriter. I love his ability to take something ugly and dissonant and make it beautiful so quickly. I want to hear him in a 10 person room with a piano and PBR on tap. I will not sing the n word I promise, but I also promise to love every second of it. Hearty 5/5. Please give me another Randy Newman album.

This is what the 1001 album challenge is all about. I thought what the fuck??? Then it slowly hit me that this is a satire on the south in rednecks, and then it settles into some beautiful incredible songs. I loved it and I couldn't wait to get my next album out of the way to listen to this again.

I was completely jarred by the first track dropping the N-word left and right. I'm sure many people have rated the album 1/5 and stopped listening there. However I've made it a goal to listen through every album in full on this list. I had to read up on the history of this album to see that it's a satire of American culture, particularly the south. With this in mind, this album became much more interesting to listen to. This is an album that requires active listening and not turning on as background music at work. I'm not rating this album based on how much I enjoyed it but rather the effect it had on me. This is an album I'm going to be returning to understand better. Also the instrumentation is fantastic. It's some of the best I've ever listened to. Would recommend listening to the Revisionist History podcast episode on this album to better understand the context.

Forgot about this album. Should be required listening in Louisiana public schools.

I loved this. Randy Newman has such a lovely way of telling a story in what sounds simple but is much more intense when focused in on the words. Coupled with the piano makes for sensational listening. A long relationship with Pixar has exposed him to a new and younger audience but he’s been writing like this for years. Covered by many artists. Nina Simone’s version of Baltimore is very powerful

Honestly, an album that can no longer be made, but an important and brave one in my opinion. Looking over reviews from other people, I'm sad to see so many people dismiss it outright because of its lyrics and subject matter. Randy writes in character. A fact that seems to be challenging for many here. It's strange to me that we can separate artist and role so easily when we watch a film (no one is getting angry at Fassbender for his role as a slave-owner in 12 Years a Slave), but we seem to have difficulty making this same separation when it comes to music. Stories deserve to be told, and no one does it better in music that Randy. He drags American skeletons out of the closet and into the daylight. That discomfort you feel? He's directly pointing out how strange it is that you don't feel it every day, because if you looked, it's all around you.

The loose concept behind this album is giving voice to a string of characters form the Southern US. Often sympathetic it’s also a critique of the racism and prejudice of the South and an equally trenchant critique of the hypocrisy of the response in the north. Everyone gets a swipe from Newman, the whole being wrapped in his trademark cosy-sounding piano, band and strings arrangements. He’s determined to give a voice to the little man, whatever he thinks of what the little man has to say. It’s a compelling though a far from easy listen. An underrated songwriter at the height of his powers.

This was so wonderful -- I just love everything about Randy Newman. Out of the 10 tracks (11 if you count the bonus demo of Marie, which I don't), I had only heard one (Rednecks) before. But every song on this record has something awesome to give, and I really loved it. The one song written by Huey Long was just alright, but Newman's performance really made it shine, so I didn't mind it. Just great melodies, really clever and creative harmonies and masterful piano writing and playing from Newman. I listened to it twice and considered going a third time, but will probably wait and re-listen tonight. Five stars.

Unglaublicher wiedererkennungswert

Anders als so manch andere Platte. Deshalb gehört sie in diese Liste.

Such a magnificent story teller.

This feels like the album where Randy Newman fully found his folksy, R&B infused, political commentary voice. "Rednecks," "Birmingham," "Marie," and "Louisiana, 1927" are all essential tracks in his discography. Somehow, messages that would feel strident from other artists always invite a sharp laugh of recognition from Newman. He'll give us a moment to feel superior, then quickly pull it out from under us. A wonderful talent.

He doesn't hold back when creating a caricature of those he targets. He also doesn't hold back when dealing with the wrongs against them. Great depth to this one.

dark, sarcastic, mean, challenging, and still a great, uncomfortable listen

my initial response to this album was shock, but further research paints an interesting picture. Originally intended as a concept album from the perspective of a fictional character named Johnny Cutler, the album involved into a satirical and pointedly critical album regarding the perspectives of the inhabitants of the Deep South that touches on slavery, racism, hypocrisy of the North, and cultural divides that pervasively covered the nation. The album has received several deep critical studies and analysis of the songwriting, and the easy, playful country tunes are contrasted with the cutting analysis by Newman's lyrics. I like this album a lot - stuck between a 4 and 5, but feels like this deserves a 5.

Damn, I honestly didn’t know Randy Newman got down like this. Like most people, I knew he was a well-regarded songwriter and was most familiar with his Toy Story anthem. As a music obsessive, I’m actually embarrassed that I didn’t know Randy produced tunes other than standards. This is legit, artistic songwriting, whether it’s meant as satire or not. This is my first real surprise of this journey so far, and what a welcomed surprise it was.

like damn Randy, here I thought I knew the guy and his sound from Cop Rock and Toy Story, how did any of his other music slip by me all this time? he manages to make thought provoking songs, dropping n-words, and still makes it sound like a whimsical day in the life.

Imagine only knowing his Toy Story stuff and then turning this on and hearing Randy Newman drop the N word so many times in a song?!? And what a crazy choice to OPEN THE ALBUM with it! I can’t decide if Randy loves America or hates it. Either way I loved this album! Goofy sounding songs with weirdly adult lyrics makes for a fun time.

Highly literate, wholly convincing mixture of biting and tender songs.

This is one of the most brilliant albums that I've heard and the first best album that has been recommended that I hadn't already heard

I loved it. It sounds like all my childhood favorite movie soundtracks but slightly different. interesting opening song. not sure what to think

Wow the only record of his I own. Being from the south, there isn’t much music outside of country that turns its focus down here. I can’t think of a better album to represent the old south Rating: 4.9

A warts and all exploration of the south told by a master storyteller. Great stuff that will get under your skin.

Great blues album, about hardships of being black in the deep south. Great message and great sound

Can almost give this a 5 for “Rednecks” alone. Ballsy, patriotic, and heart-crushingly tender, this album is a true salute to the Deep South. I would have loved to hear it performed in Georgia, with Newman conducting the Atlanta Orchestra.

I totally was into this album. Sarcasm! an indictment of the current system ( at the time) in politics. And very unapologetic about dealing with racism in the moment. I will listen to this album again because it is great music and very entertaining. Loved it way more than I thought I would.

So pleasant and easy to throw on and let ride

god DAMN! I love you Randy ❤️ 10/10

racy themes great songwriting

That first song caught me off guard. Once I learned it was satire it was better.

He is one of the best ever

Oh hey, it's the toy story guy.

Easy 5!

what a racist

"ahhh cool an album by the Toy Story guy, this ought to be fun and innocent" ---Opening Song--- "Uhm, this must have been about Woody's sordid past, lets go watch Monster's Inc. instead"

Delicious lyrics and quirky orchestration!

Surprise rage from Randy

Well, I wasn’t expecting this so soon after Sail Away, early Christmas present I guess. It’s albums like this that make me appreciate how far we still have to go. It’s easy to forget sometimes, but the Civil Rights movement in the USA was only 60 years ago. I kinda don’t want to get into anything too heavy on Christmas morning, so I’m just gonna say that Rednecks is one of the greatest works of political satire ever written, both the chorus and the second verse just hit like sledgehammers every time. And every other song is just great. Newman is able to be both acidic and sympathetic towards his characters, which is the best thing a writer can attempt to be

I had a cassette tape of the Blues Brothers growing up and one song done by John Belushi was Guilty. I always thought it was the perfect song for him but had no clue where it came from until now. This was phenomenal. I almost did a spit take at Rednecks. This is powerful song writing. I had no clue Randy Newman had done this.

I am a sucker for albums that explore history and regional identity which is one of the reasons Sufjan Stevens is one of my favorite artists. This album by Randy Newman combines that historical regionalism with a biting satire which animates the institutional racism in the south and the hypocrisy of the north. There are some beautifully earnest songs on the album as well which seems to suggest that Newman is sympathetic to the humanity of his subjects while acknowledging the societal issues they take part in and reinforce. The result is a stunning album that portrays the American South as a complex backdrop. Musically, Newman is unique. During the 70s, he was not afraid to feature dancehall and musical theatre influences in his music which works to great effect here. His film/tv composition background is on full display and he utilizes it to ground his lyrics in very American forms of music.

Excellent follow up to “Sail Away”.

I enjoyed this one very much.

I keep underestimating Randy Newman. All the charm of the Toy Story soundtrack with some very pointed, biting lyrics that really pull no punches. After nearly 50(!) years these lyrics are often shocking, juxtaposing wildly with those Toy Story expectations I get from the music. But I ended up really impressed. Another great album from Randy Newman.

This album was fantastic! Before today, I had only known Randy's work with Toy Story and Monsters Inc. This album strayed from that quite a bit with the first song!! Redneck is the first song on the album, and is sung from the perspective of a racist from the southern US. The N-word comes out a few times, which shocked the shit out of me, given all I knew of Randy. Redneck was an amazing song that was a sadly true glimpse at the state of things in the southern US in the 70's. Randy is such a fantastic storyteller. He had such a way to paint vibrant pictures with his lyrics. Through his lyrics he spins storys complete with humour, love, and political issues. I thoroughly enjoyed this album today, and will definately listen again! Favourite songs: Back On My Feet Again, Redneck, Louisiana 1927, Birmingham, Kingfish, A Wedding in a Cherokee County, Naked Man Least favourite song: Every Man A King 5/5

Loved it. Great lyrics, music. Loved Marie

Love itttt

meh

Randy Newman is an amazing songwriter. I was really looking forward to the album. Then that first song came on. And I was like "wait, did he just say what I _HEARD_ him say?" I had to go look up the song and understand the context. I mean "Rednecks," right? Obviously, a song like this would have been different now. Heck, I remember when "Cop Killer" came out by Body Count (remember that pleasant little ditty?). It was not supposed to be singing about killing police, but playing a role. Same kind of thing here for that first track. It's not Newman is singing about being a redneck, but roleplaying. Still it's hard to wrap my head around. And I know it would not have been received so well in today's society. The other songs are classic Randy Newman. It's just that first song will make you pause without context, you know? Still going to give it 5 starts, but yikes.

randy newman says the n word lol

Itsnfine

Good Old Boys is a grimly impressive record: compact, funny, ugly, beautifully made, and deeply uncomfortable. It begins with provocation, but it does not stay there. “Rednecks” initially appears to be a grotesque character piece, a Southern bigot given enough rope to hang himself in public. But the song’s real force comes from the way it widens the target. Newman is not simply saying that racism exists in the South. He is also attacking the outsourcing of disgust: the comforting idea that prejudice lives over there, in those people, in that accent, while cleaner and more respectable forms of cruelty can continue elsewhere with a better vocabulary. That is the first sign of the album’s complexity. It refuses to let the listener occupy a safe moral balcony. From there, the record keeps broadening. “Birmingham” gives the opening voice a civic setting. The man is no longer just a poisonous mouth. He has a town, a job, a sense of pride, a local identity. That does not redeem him, but it makes him more plausible. Newman understands that ugly politics rarely exist as pure ugliness. They live inside homes, cities, marriages, memories, jokes, songs and self-descriptions. That is what makes the album feel so contemporary. Its subject is not only the American South in the 1970s. Its deeper subject is the process by which grievance finds a culprit. The grievances on the album are not all imaginary. There is poverty here, bad work, neglect, political abandonment, domestic failure and wounded pride. Men feel ignored. Places feel forgotten. Institutions feel remote. But the horror lies in the conversion process: real wounds are handed the wrong explanation. A person who has been failed is invited to blame someone weaker, stranger, darker, poorer, newer, easier. That is where Good Old Boys becomes more than satire. It is not content to laugh at prejudice. It studies the conditions in which prejudice becomes useful. “Mr. President” is crucial because it gives the working man a grievance that is not merely cultural. The plea is simple: have pity on the working man. The song is not noble in any straightforward sense, but it is materially grounded. Newman knows that economic pressure and moral corruption can coexist. Suffering does not automatically ennoble people. Nor does bigotry cancel the reality of suffering. The album keeps both facts in view, which is why it remains so difficult to sit with. The Huey Long material then sharpens the political argument. “Every Man a King” and “Kingfish” show populism as an emotional transaction before it is an ideological one. The offer is not just “I will improve your life.” It is “I will give you a voice.” That is an immensely powerful promise to people who feel unheard. It can become dignity. It can also become permission. This is one of the album’s strongest insights. The strongman does not first appear to his supporters as a monster. He appears as relief. He speaks plainly. He gets things done. He frightens the right people. He turns resentment into theatre and calls it representation. Musically, the album is almost indecently well made. That is part of the discomfort. Newman gives bitter material a candy shell: warm piano, old songbook shapes, comic turns, parlour songs, little civic numbers, fragments that can sound cosy until the content registers properly. The arrangements do not always announce the horror. Sometimes they make the horror more plausible by refusing to underline it. The writing is wildly economical. Whole towns, marriages, political systems and moral failures are implied in a few plain lines. Newman does not over-explain. He trusts the listener to hear the courthouse, the kitchen, the bar, the floodwater, the campaign truck and the locked room behind the song. The domestic songs are just as grim as the political ones. “Marie” is touching and awful at the same time: a love song in which tenderness does not erase failure. “Guilty” is self-recognition without redemption. “Rollin’” turns denial into routine, showing a man using small rules and a glass in his hand to convince himself that everything is under control. The album repeatedly returns to the same moral fact: feeling something sincerely does not make the conduct good. That may be the core of the record. It refuses all the easy equations. Tenderness is not goodness. Grievance is not justice. Suffering is not innocence. Comedy is not harmlessness. Charm is not moral health. As an album, Good Old Boys is not lovable in any easy sense. It is too sour, too compromised, too aware of how people excuse themselves. But it is brilliantly constructed. Its songs are small, but the world behind them is enormous. It is a record about damaged places and damaged people, and about the stories that allow damage to defend itself. Four stars feels right: not because it is a pleasure to live with, but because it is so precisely made. A four-star record, but not a cosy four stars.

Outside of the theme for Monk and Toy Story, I knew nothing of Randy Newman. Love this album. And I want to listen to more of his catalog

Howard Tate golvade mig med sin version av Louisiana. Tate hade texten bytt ut president Coolidge mot president Bush. Tyvärr behövde inga andra delar texten bytas ut för fortfarande vara relevant. Det är en stark samling låtar som Newman fått ihop. Nästan varenda textrad är värd att citera. Ibland för det mins tankar till Tom T Hall, ibland till Tom Waits (Marie, Guilty). Han levererar dessutom sång som matchar texterna. Som helhet är det riktigt bra. De ända plumparna i protokollet är revynumret Every man a king samt calypsoflörten i Naked man.

Unique voice, great piano playing and songwriting that avoid the trap of going for all ballads. Varied instrumentation and tone. Thoughtful lyrics.

- This dude's piano compositions are so different than what I've heard. Definitely gonna need to incorporate this style in my playing somehow

Great album by a great songwriter. Surprised this is rated so low; I’m guessing by the reviews it’s based on some of the language in the first song. Seems like at least some of them don’t understand satire, and using an exaggerated version of something negative to highlight how awful and/or stupid it is. In any case, enjoyed the album.

This is a tremendous collection of tunes that showcases what a killer songsmith Newman is 20 years before Toy Story expanded his fame. Rednecks is great even if (or perhaps because) it hits home as a native of the southeastern U.S.

Det var en Anden Tid™. Den her plade er for vild, lyder fremragende

Maybe it’s just the millennial in me but Randy Newman’s voice is very soothing. I could listen to him reading the phone book.

I think this is a 5 star album. I had never heard Randy Newman before, and so I read about him. What a career but this album is a masterclass. Totally listenable, shocking, surprising, and wonderful.

Good album but some crazy themes on early songs. I like the commentary. 8.3/10

Great stuff can’t believe I’d never heard good start to the challenge. Like the cosy peaceful atmosphere

Dang, Randy really occupies a very specific sweet spot, doesn’t he?

Very good Randy Newman, not my favorite but some quality stuff here.

Woof. I like Randy Newman and I know he writes songs with satire and from the perspective of people he doesn’t necessarily agree with. I’m not sure how to feel about this. I certainly wouldn’t try to question someone for being offended. I don’t know if I am, but I’m also not someone who is typically victimized by the usage of some of the words in here. Pretty complex stuff. Wait a minute. Did art just make me think and feel?

"it takes a whole lot of medicine for me to pretend I'm somebody else*. As seriously funny as it is serious. He dispenses all the news that's for to print - good bad and otherwise - but leaves you feeling ok about it. Randy is gonna Newman and we're all a little better for it.

The kind of good music I will never listen to again.

Review - Randy Newman deserves more credit than he gets. This is a great album and I learnt some interesting history about Kingfisher and southern US politics in the early 20th century. The first song is good but good lord he drops a lot of slurs. Other than that, fantastic album. Score - 8/10 Need to listen? YES

Ignore his work for film, which is echoic and incredible in it's onw right, and what remains is one of the great American songwriters that's emerged from the 60's. Randy Newman's songwriting style is sadly out of style in a concurrent mainstream understanding. His songs are stories, always told from the perspective of an unnamed narrator. This level of detachment seems alien to an audience that expects a songwriter to be writing and singing from their immediate perspective. I guess it's not obvious at first listen to the uninitiated. Randy Newman has more in common with Raymond Carver than he does most songwriters. The other thing people seem to miss is his irony, his acidic vitriol. His soft froggy voice and string arrangements bely the anger at injustice and ignorance which stands front and center in songs like "Rednecks". He's also funny as hell. "A Wedding in Cherokee County", one of my favorite songs of his, always makes me laugh when the narrator starts talking about his bride's family. While there's irony everywhere, there's also sincerity. He has a soft spot for the disaffected, can find charm in the freaks of the world, cuz we're all human. He hates examples of humanity turning against itself--racism and prejudice, capitalists and politicians fucking over regular people, the weaponization of religion against people's best interests. In addition, he crafts great songs with simple lyrics, simple rhythms, but powerfully memorable melodies sung with such a distinct froggy voice.

Really enjoyed it musically, appreciate that it’s a cohesive concept to the album.

Quite a shock to hear the Toy Story guy use the N word a bunch of times but Rednecks is actually a clever satire, I appreciated it. Actually the writing is good on the whole album, his character is a nice idea and it's pretty wry. Not 5* because the music didn't excite me as much

I first heard Randy Newman when the song Short People was a hit. As a short person, I was both irritated by the song but also respected its satire. However many others didn't and sang it to me to tease me. And that's the thing about Randy Newman. He's very darkly satirical and many people just don't get it. I had never listened to this album before, but I knew of it. I'd heard Sail Away and knew that he could not just be satirical, but also very blunt and direct. None of that prepared me for Rednecks, and amazing song that I won't save to a playlist or recommend to others. I loved the theme of the album, and some songs fit better than others. I also laughed out loud a few times. Highlights were Rednecks (see disclaimer above), Marie, Mr. President (amazing that this was from 1974 and not today), and Back on My Feet Again.

Randy Newman is such a good song writer. So much of what he does feels like it should be in a movie scene. It also feels like it’s stuck in a Time Machine. I thought this album was released in 1975 not 2025… that said, these are well written songs and the lyrical content not only gives them a modern spin but also a lot of punch. Not all good ole boys are bad but where there smoke there’s fire so somebody’s gotta say it. Well done Randy.

# Album Name: Good Old Boys # Artist: Randy Newman # Rating: 4/5 # Comments: Good listen. Decent vibes. # Top Tunes: # Would I listen to it again? Yes

voice and style are very typical

You either get Randy Newman or you don't and if you don't, you are wrong.

beter dan verwacht... opgewekte muziek met donkere teksten...zo heb ik het graag.. soort van Tom Waits maar zonder de doorrookte stem...

When Toy Story came out, I hated it. The Randy Newman songs increased that dislike. I was convinced this album was going to be a one star, but I decided to go into it with an open mind. There are some beautiful songs on here!! I am pleasantly surprised.

Good Old Boys is old. It's for the boys down from the South, but most importantly... it's good. It's a chronicle of life and history of the south, told from a perspective of a southern everyman, but it's also a collection of love songs from a perspective of a not so regular Joe who asks his lover for help when he's drunk and high on coke, and who marries a freak like himself and doesn't mind whatever comes with it. Those are the songs I come back to the most. Political and historical context misses me the most, but love always hits like it should.

Nice

The king of "totally different song if you actually listen to the lyrics" has done it again! Love Randy.

I need to listen to more Randy Newman

There's a lot going on here, and it's crafted well.

Day 222 Fun album, I’m definitely going to dig deeper into his back catalogue. Highlights Rednecks Naked man A wedding in Cherokee country

This one grew on me over time. Took me about a third of the album before I recognised his voice

4.5 Another album that showcases why Newman is one of the best songwriters of all time. These songs are fun, deep, thoughtful, pointed, complicated. The first song is a difficult listen, for sure, but obviously saying a lot. It’s weird to hear Newman’s genial voice say all those vicious slurs, though I think that’s the point!

One of the most original guys out there. This album didn’t wow me so much as I just love listening to about anything he does

Randy Newman is a very skilled songwriter. Rednecks is, of course, the elephant in the room, using language that has only gotten more offensive with time. It's difficult to enjoy that particular song, but it is also true that Randy Newman puts out otber great tracks.

Brilliant album the kind of which they don’t make anymore. We prob need albums like this more than ever now.

I like his voice and the satire.

I like him

A good listen, and clever satire. Birmingham was my fav song and first listen of the album with Louisiana 1927 and Naked Man being my other highlights

gad chli schwierig zum uf rednecks reagiere. ich verstoh satirische song aber jäh. chli sehr on the nose und explizit. birmingham isch chli weniger usgrproche. aber song guet, irgendwie stelli mer genau so randy newman vor mit de blöser und so. guilty isch vo ihm?! ich kenns nume vode joe cocker version. suuuuuuuper song! back on my feet again supeeer cool. er singt weird aber irgendwie guet. und d songs sind immer whimsical aber interessant und hend erstunlich tüüfi. rollin' sehr sehr schön mitem chörli. er liebt whisky.

hahaha ich lieb das sini meistgloste albe alles pixar-soundtracks sind ohh das tönt ja inhaltlich mega spannend redneck macht spass! au wenn de refrain fast de schwächsti part isch poah es isch huere schön!!! marie isch chli langsam aber v.a. d strings geg de schluss sind megaaa hahaha omg ich lieb every man a king es isch sicher au weg de assoziation mit chinderfilm, aber d lieder hend iwie eifach so e chindlichi verspieltheit woni megaa cool find supeeer album! füres 5i langets glaub nöd ganz aber starke 4

I've been thinking how to write this review all day, because Randy Newman put me in quite the bind. There's a lot to enjoy with this album, which I'll talk about soon, but the catchiest song on the album, "Rednecks," contains the n word in the chorus. The album was released in 1974, and Newman's lyrics are biting towards the South but don't give any respite to the North either. (The South sure has their racists, but the North loves feeling holier-than-thou when they believe they can't be racist.) I can appreciate the sentiment and purpose, because the chorus and the n word drive home Newman's point, but I sure don't feel good singing along. That facet aside, I enjoyed so much about this album. Good Old Boys is a concept album that explores the South but not in the usual manner. I was reminded of Southern Rock Opera by Drive-By Truckers (also on this project), because Newman also doesn't hold back on the problems the South has. And he doesn't see the South through rose-colored glasses, which happens all too often. For all I said in the first paragraph, I loved how socially conscious the opening track was--and "Mr. President (Have Pity on the Working Class)". Newman even wrote a song about the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and adapted Louisiana Governor Huey Long's song, both of which were daring choices that paid off well. This album is considered a loose concept album, but I want to fight against that because Newman showed the history, politics, and society of Louisiana in 12 songs under 34 minutes. I have a few more comments. Newman's vocals are hard to describe, but I want to call them reassuring and kind. There's a lovely comfort his vocals provide. I also couldn't help but feel that his voice is pure American, though I'm sure I was influenced by the album's theme. And despite the prevailing concept, Newman serenades the listener with "Marie," which was quite the love song. I really enjoyed how he slowed down for the last song, "Rolling," a song about acceptance, perhaps even the acceptance of ignorance in life. I can hear how he influenced and was influenced by his roots rock contemporaries, like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. "Naked Man" has that beach/ocean vibe that I must equate with Jimmy Buffet, which frankly amused me.

7/10 It definitely bounces along nicely. Has to work hard not to be a novelty, but lyrically it is funny and interesting, albeit a little suspect to the modern liberal European ear on occasionm

This is an interesting one. I generally really like songs that have an upbeat sounding melody but the lyrics don’t match that tone. Like some stuff that Steely Dan and Warren Zevon do. Randy Newman does this a lot too, and I generally really like his music. But how far is too far? Like I get the point of rednecks, but I wouldn’t play that song in front of anyone else in 2026. Idk, my gut still says it’s a 4 Star album so that’s what I’m going with.

That was not what i expected except that it sounds exactly like what youd think a randy newman album would sounds like were you to know who he was. I loved it.

Retrospective review but to absolutely not do him justice I had no idea until seeing his Spotify profile that he is the Toy Story guy!!

This is a fantastic concept album by an incredible lyricist. His Randy Newman style of singing means that sure, the sounds all sound similar but he makes up for that with simple, beautiful country-rock arrangements. He does a wonderful job exploring both the ugly and beautiful truths of Southern America, with enough respect and care given so that southerners aren’t the butt of the joke but rather well fleshed out characters.

It feels like this should be a 4, but I will need to have repeated listens to explain why.

That is a hard opener. But one that shines a light on the racism inherent within the US with satire and wit. As we continue we get more political commentary done with that vevlet voice.

I now see why Woody never invited Mr Newman to a dinner party with the other toys Hes the drunk Uncle that Id always have a seat reserved for though. 4.5 stars for the entertainment value alone for those who cant detect satire

To be clear, I’m not listening to Randy for the music. The music is good but it’s not the vibe I go searching out. I have no problem listening to it, the compositions are quality and it’s done really well it just not my thing. Obviously that doesn’t matter anyway because I’m actually here for the lyrics. Late 60s early 70s, Randy had few who could touch his incisive wit and takedowns. One of his most successful approaches is to inhabit his “victims” and this is an album that takes that tactic and runs with it. Examining America by becoming a cast of characters from the Deep South, each opening up and revealing various traits, flaws, vices and most notably prejudices. It’s a masterclass; hilarious, thought-provoking and heart breaking. Unfortunately it’s also still relevant 50 years later.

2/4/26. My honest first exposure to Randy Newman outside of Toy Story, have to say I'm shocked in the best way! The first track really caught me by surprise, and throughout really loved the sound and storytelling. This may become a new hidden gem for me.

They don’t make singer-songwriters like they used to.

More of the typical Randy Newman sound (Wild that he used the hard R on Rednecks, but given the subject matter, it makes sense.) 3.5 bumped up to 4.

I didn't know him outside of You Got a Friend in Me. The whole album is very political and meant to confront a lot of civil rights issues at the time. Very good, carries through his soul.

Þessi plata er örlítið meira grípandi við fyrstu hlustun en Sail away, en þær eru annars nokkurn veginn á pari. Og parið er mjög fínt.

Fuego

A real time capsule. Probably not going to hear too many songs like this anymore. For better or worse. On his merits, I like Randy Newman. But I always feel like I should be watching Ken Burns’s Baseball when I listen to him.

There is some really funny stuff in here. Naked man is the clear highlight for me. Also a big fan of Louisiana. This could be a 5 if I could understand what Randy was saying half the time. Don’t laugh at his mighty sword!

Solid album. Not completely sure what the concept was but I enjoyed it. Maybe I was just happy because it felt like a Pixar movie.

1/13 Good album. Will listen to this more at night or when I need a drink. Didnt expect the lyrics of the first song, lol

I really like Randy Newman. I feel like I would enjoy spending time in his company. His music makes me smile and feel all kind of nostalgic.

Liked this album

I did know Randy Newman, and when I recognised the voice I was not expecting some punk level societal takedowns. Maybe the scathing social commentary hit harder because I didn't see it coming, and it may not be much of a bop, but this is some damn fine satire.

Although it is hard to overlook Randy Newman using the n-word multiple times in the first track, one can’t deny that this is a well made album by the Toy Story dude. There’s something comforting about Randy Newman’s music, even if he tackles controversial subjects in the lyrics.

Very easy to listen to

Wonderful satire/send up/love letter to the south. As someone who lived in Birmingham Alabama for half my life, Newman really nails the dichotomy of easy going romanticized life in the south with the hatred and racism that come along with it. 7/10 Favorite tracks- “Rednecks” “Louisiana 1927” “Back on My Feet Again”

Immediately disappointed that this doesn't contain my favorite Newman song: "Fat man with his kids and dog, drove in through the morning fog.." The music has a piano-bar quality to it, neither biting nor challenging, just humming along. Yet the lyrics are anything but, particularly the first song. It's as if Randy says, if you can stomach this song, you're allowed to listen to the rest. I don't agree with commenters who feel uncomfortable with this song: It's clearly a clever satire targeting both southern racism and northern hypocricy. To dismiss such an even handed criticim, imo, is tantamout to virtue signalling. Rant over. Musicwise, it comes off as simplistic, but I have a feeling that it's actually a type of efortless mastery - Newman makes his music sound easy: He is aiming at background listening with biting content. And the goal's achieved: I'd put this with guests over. If the song bothers them, that's a conversation starter. I'm also a fan of the cover art, as it reflects the album perfectly: Seemingly a generic, lazy photo of a couple at a bar, yet the details reveal an uneasy picture: The girl seem much younger, wearing a wig, the guy, overdressed, wearing shades in door. A hint at the dynamics of power, money, status, and age.

Nice album.

Fat dude in love writing his heart out and fucking up hos love life doing coke and shit. Great story teller but he can't sing. But these Songs are made to be sung like that and they are fun and short. Really enjoyed this album although Im not a fan of this type of music

I'd never heard of Randy Newman till all his animated soundtrack fame. It's entertaining and amusing background music.

This is the Piano Man Billy Joel was singing about.

Was not expecting to like this based on some of his cheesy soundtrack songs. Very biting social commentary and witty. Rednecks caught me off guard.

Fuck yea randy

After reading more into this - it's an excellent political commentary, which I think Randy Newman handles very well.

Good Old Randy

Welcome dear reader to a totally optional review of this album. I put on the vinyl while cleaning as I'm trying to expose myself to full album listening experiences this way. I don't really know much of Randy Newman outside of his Pixar bangers but do respect him. It's cool that he essentially encapsulates really good americana blues, country, folk and 70's singer/songwriters. He's like a family friendly tom waits in terms of his goofy voice. I have very distinct memories of the toy story soundtrack, him on Colbert playing "political science" as well as recently hearing his "I Love LA" cover at a charity event for the recent L.A. wildfires. I also remember listening to this in college as my roommate really liked him but I was too drunk to actually take it in. He really is idiosyncratic. The only things that keeps me from rating this album of his perfect are the following: Randy Newman dying so I can jump on the Nostalgia train Really taking in his lyrics/song topics (which are the hardest for me to digest as I'm not the most poetic / intelligent and from the songs of his I do know the lyrics for, i'm sure there is a lot of good storytelling/humor to take in being exposed to an eloquent critic's opinion on why this is literally a classic and why i'm dumb for not knowing that already. All in all, give this guy a listen bare minimum for his essential status in American singer/songwriter...ness

7/10… Piano Rock / baroque Pop / *1974

This album sounded far better than I expected Randy Newman to be, though, until further review, I almost legit couldn’t tell if it was overtly racist or satirical. A very pleasant listen and well-written, if not simple Americana.

Randy Newman is one of my biggest surprises of this project. I love him, and I didn’t think I would. First song out of the gate on this record, and I already know the reviews will be chock full of people clutching their pearls at his unrestrained use of racial slurs, but without any thought to what he’s actually saying, or the story he’s telling, or the point of view of the character he’s writing, or the very obvious satire going on…he’s basically the Joel Chandler Harris of the 80’s, but I’m sure people will lose their minds over it. Anyway, l really liked this record. Bit of a concept record. It’s weird, this is the second Randy Newman record I’ve got on this thing, and I would’ve swore I hated Randy Newman until I sat down to listen to him. His records showcase some really great musical composition and some clever and biting lyricism, and I’ve found both records really relaxing for me. I did not expect to like him very much; I kinda thought of him as the modern day ragtime guy with a weird voice. But I dig him. 4/5

I can't believe Woody would say this 😔

This was not what I expected from Randy Newman. Shocking off the bat, but I'm glad I read more about the context of the album and the design. I'm not comfortable with it still, but it was a very interesting take on southern lifestyles and traditions while making a point that tradition doesn't justify. Unique.

We should all know it's satire and shaming, but 'Rednecks' was still a choice... The rest of the album is what I've come to expect from this guy.

This was a very beautiful album. Hadn't listened to the redneck song before - absolutely took me by surprise got a bit worried as to what I was listening to but I loved it that pushed me to research the lyrics and the history. Incredibly brave!

Every day, someone who only knows Randy Newman from his Toy Story songs, listens to this album for the first time.

A rare surprise. One of those artists of course I knew but never listened to. He’s an incredible songwriter. And thanks to the reviewer who pointed out the Malcolm Gladwell podcast. Recommended listening alongside this great album.

I only know him from tv/movies. So it was wild to hear him singing some politically charges stuff. And I definitely never expected him to say the n word in his chorus. Over all interesting listen. It's kind of like watching Bob Saget stand up. Finding out there is a whole different side to this person.

Weird album, but some great songs.

Not my favorite of his, but still some corkers on here. “Louisiana” is very pretty. When my dad would play this album, he told us the lyrics on the “Rednecks” chorus were “we’re keeping the neighbors down,” and I still kinda hear it that way.

It's the kind of cultural moment in 2025 where it's possible that a song like "Rednecks" might be unironically embraced by Southern Trumpers convinced that they've finally found an anthem worthy of their true unvarnished feelings. This level of cultural and social critique, which stabs deep and true into the heart of institutional racism and poverty, almost feels like it's a relic at this point. It's also a goddamned catchy musical album with great melodies and Newman's sneaky piano holding the whole thing down.

Randy Newman is great.

Очень спокойная, размеренная музыка. 6,5 из 10.

No one can ever accuse Randy Newman of subtlety, nor can they say he doesn’t express his opinions with abandon. I have heard this album many times. Fresh off reading a book on black history, Rednecks hit a little different, especially in this current political environment. Mr. President is also still very relevant. Matter of fact, most of this album hits today. Marie is my favorite song this listen, simply because I need the light in the midst of all the darkness. Every album is a masterclass in lyricism. My only problem is when I listen to him, I always imagine Woody and Buzz, which makes songs like Redneck feel awkward sung by a beloved cowboy toy….

Random thoughts: * I was surprised to like this one so much! * Of course, I'm familiar with Randy Newman but never listened to an album. * I'm a little confused by this album in a good way. Is he Southern? Wiki tells me no but these songs sound like he is from New Orleans. * What do you call this music? Southern Gothic Jazz? * Wow! He brought it so hard on track one with Rednecks! Holy smokes! * Mr. President seem like it would resonate almost any time since it's release but maybe more so with the current administration. * This one is going to get several more listens. I've been sleeping on Randy Newman.

Surprisingly wonderful, I liked it right from the start! Previously, I’d only heard the short people song and Toy Story songs. He’s jazzy, but also something else I can’t put my finger on. Definitely irreverent and I’m pretty sure she said the n word… definitely have mixed feelings about the lyrics but the musicality is very catchy. From what I read online, he writes satire and some of his songs are written from different character perspectives — what we call in reading an “unreliable narrator” which would explain the slurs about Jews and black people. It’s giving Tom Waits vibes.

indecorous yet of beauty

Randy has got a good vibe to him. Simpsons: Yes

I do like Randy Newman. Maybe this will grow on me like Sail Away but I don’t think it was quite as good for me.

Bra album

At least the slurs are not said with a hard R, but I think that's due to Randy Newman's accent. Good album though

- Zeer gezellig, zeker de pixar-vibes gehoord. - 0 nummers toegevoegd aan MMMM

Sweet and sad and funny and uncomfortable. As all his songs tend to be.

Hell of an opening track. Made me squirm, which is the point of course. Easy listening on uneasy topics with heck of a satirical bite. Will definitely be looking forward to more of his work.

Shocking. I was not aware the artist behind "You've Got a Friend in Me" had such, shall we say, complex songs. Unlike many of the reviews that immediately dismiss the album with one star due to a white man using the N-word (which is deemed forbidden regardless of the context) I choose to take the album at its intended meaning. It is art. A powerful piece of satire not only for its time, but arguably even more relevant now as I write this, and I fear it always will be. The point is to make you uncomfortable, to confront the disturbing history we as humans have created, and to remind us why we must continue fighting against injustice and discrimination. In doing so he does not even make fun of the South so much as making me feel even empathetic to their cause/plight by the end. The kind of empathy I feel we need to find in one another again instead of dismissive and aggression we have to those "on the other side". It is an album you should listen to before you die, especially if you hail from the mainland United States. Hopefully other cultures have their versions of (or one day can) an album like this to make it more relatable for them. Musically if we ignore the lyrics the songs are pretty, especially with the piano. That said, I will not listen to any of these songs recreationally. A unexpected thinker after going though many of these albums in comparison, rather mindlessly.

“Fat old husband walking over….”

Good stuff. That one song has maybe too many N bombs

Randy Newman is brilliant. His music is fun and delightfully toungue in cheek, and, as a writer, there's few singer/songwriters in his class. This is a good one.

A little uncomfortable but I love Randy

Sweet portrayals of humanity (and lack thereof).

When he talked about rednecks and cocaine in that “you’ve got a friend in me” voice is one of the surreal moments of the week. Great concept, though. I felt in north Louisiana again, just for one hour.

Redneck could not get away with the N-word use today, even though it is technically used to make fun of the people on the wrong side of history. Songwriting and storytelling come together in their purist American form. No wonder Newman scored Pixar films

Vječno pitanje tko je više proto father john misty. Randy newman ili warren zevon

Leuke muziek!

Somewhere between a good record and a great collection of short stories. I like it a lot.

Last night I saw Lester Maddox on a TV Show. With some smart-ass New York Jew. And the Jew laughed at Lester Maddox. And the audience laughed at Lester Maddox too.

I love Randy Newman’s snarky attitude. For people that grew up listening to his work on family friendly soundtracks, I can see why some of the lyrics in his songs can be jarring. Great subtle satire hidden in the music.

Amazing music and lyric writing.

Enjoyable. Strong start had it on a 5 star path, but lost energy around the midway point. 4 stars for the strong opening stretch. Good lyricist knows how to sing within his range with a fun production sound. - oof white guy saying the n-word. Pretty sure it's sarcasm but OOF. Did some research, sounds like Randy Newman is very self-aware of the optics - Truly enjoying this album. It's got a groove, it's not just rock cliches, it's got a digestable message, and I like his voice! - Starting with 'Every Man a King', there's a quality change. Lyrics get wonkier, sound gets more jarring

Kinda nice but also kinda all the same. Once you know he wrote "you got a friend in me" you can hear the same patterns in nearly all of his songs on this album.

This is about as harsh and as real as songwriting gets. Randy Newman has a way of writing biting satire... one of my favorites is "Short People" which is an unbelievably misunderstood work of genius. I had never heard this record before. I'm giving it four stars precisely because it's great, but it's not an instant five star for me... room for growth, perhaps.

Really enjoyed it

Randy Newman is an American treasure that must be protected at all costs

Good album! Musically I still find Newman a little showtimey twee, though his lyrics/themes are more interesting than this musical approach might suggest.

Me “These songs sound like they are out of Toy Story” Me five minutes later “Oh” The was something decidedly bland but ridiculously enchanting about this album, and I kinda like it!

Controversial. I hope people can see this as satire!

I think this is an album with a few really good songs but I'm not loving it in it's entirety. I really like his upbeat songs but when he slows it down I'm not sure I love those, but the songs that I like I really like! 4 stars

I really like it, maybe it's a 4.5. "Every man a king" is my favorite

I love the grooves of this album. It’s Ray Charles adjacent, but Newman adds his own jaunty offkilterness. The first track is well composed, but its shameless use of a racial slur hasn’t aged well, even if used in satire. I loved the political activism wrapped in light hearted ditties though.

Super American sounding, wholesome and musical. Music school vibes.

I don’t know if Randy Newman’s music always felt sort of dreamy, or if it is because I attribute it to Toy Story so it feels somewhat like childhood wonder, but this felt very floaty and pleasant to me. It’s that same vibe of music as You Got A Friend In Me, except his sense of humour is allowed to shine through here too. I enjoy when he sings from a character perspective, which is something so rarely seen in modern music. This was a fun little meander through some musical clouds.

First song was very jarring and of its time but I enjoyed this. Maybe need to go relisten to the other Randy Newman album on this list

Great stuff.

Impossível não lembrar do Toy Story com a voz do Newman, o que foi um pouquinho pouco frustrante. A cada música eu fazia essa associação de forma involuntária. Por causa disso não sinto que foi uma experiência "limpa". De qualquer forma, a voz dele é muito única e as músicas tem um embalo muito bom e letras satíricas que são por vezes cômicas.

A good album, I liked Guilty, Every Man A King and Back In My Feet Again.

> the Beatles

I grew up listening to Randy Newman, thanks to my parents for that. I can't imagine this album would go over too well in 2025, but for the time, it's excellent. 3.5/5 = 4 stars.

Couple days ago I dinged some other album for being too cute/too clever. Randy Newman is the correct amount of cute and clever, with a good execution. Something I normally wouldn’t like, but do. Is You Got A Friend In Me a self-rip-off of Back On My Feet Again? Think it might be.

very enjoyable

My takeaway from the last Randy Newman album we reviewed was surprise at some of y'alls' reviews railing his singing voice. I'm starting to consider I might have some variation of misophonia (a disorder in which certain sounds trigger emotional or physiological responses that some might perceive as unreasonable given the circumstance) when it comes to certain vocalists, but that ain't triggered by Mr. Newman. I appreciate his limited range for what it is, and his drawl (droll) works for me given the context of his music. I'm bordering on another 5, but tempering it to round out to a solid average of 4.5 for both albums. Note: In addition to all the barbs on this record, he manages the questionable trick of using the n-word as a white man and getting his point across without sabotaging his intent — I can only think of a few other artists (Lennon, Zappa, Patti Smith) who have done that. I couldn't even imagine a context where it makes sense, and it's a bold opening to the record. I find Newman insightful, and biting, and the music and arrangement spot on. I'm a fan.

There is simply something about Newman. I don’t think I should like this music but I do. I can’t relate to the lyric, but I never tire of his stories.

Gave him a 4 only because he did Toy Story “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”

Pretty solid album, usually not my go to type of music.

good album. given the obvious satire in the first track and the fact that it was made 50 years ago, I'll look past the repeated use of slurs.

Witty, political, and well written tunes. I am a certified Randy Newman enjoyer

Angenehm zu hören, Texte habe ich nicht tiefer betrachtet. Ist ein zweites hören wert. 4/5

If toy story was set in the American south at the turn of the century. Pretty damn good apparently

I can't give a full throated endorsement of the album because of the amount of racial slurs sung by a white man, even though they are in the service of shining a light on racism and hypocrisy. I really liked this album, loved the message and the music. No song stayed past it's welcome. Breezy listen.

I just started shock laughing in a crowded office space. Love it! But yeah, this would never pass today — even if its satire.

I liked it, never heard of the album. Would listen again. Thought it was funny.

I can see why Disney signed this man up to compose and sing some of the most iconic Pixar films. His voice is just incredible, such a clear and well-rounded artist that is very soothing to listen to. The songs are brilliantly well done as well having much country and elements of rock and roll composed so brilliantly. An absolute American road trip album.

Polithical and melancholic. Some strokes of dark humor.

Randy Newman is so interesting. I can't hear his voice without thinking of a Pixar soundtrack... but this album made me remember his R&B roots and clever lyricism.

Okay, obligatory "you couldn't do that today" preface, but goddammit, what an absolutely acid songwriter Newman could be. And all that venom gussied up in pretty jazz chords too. Very good.

"If you disagree with someone — if you find what they think appalling — is there any value in talking to them? In the early 1970s, the talk show host Dick Cavett, the governor of Georgia Lester Maddox, and the singer Randy Newman tried to answer this question." Not a fan of Malcolm Gladwell but I did really did enjoy this episode of Revisionist History ... https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/revisionist-history/good-old-boys But damn, that song is hard to hear in 2025 ...

"rednecks" is still scathing, and "louisiana 1927" feels more prescient than historic in the wake of katrina. light-hearted and furious, often in the same song. human kindness overflowing.

What I think of as the voice and sound of Americana. It's underlying current of dark stories sugar coated with this happy go Lucky music. But at the same time there is a profound sadness and weight. It's such a weird thing. And I love it.

Really liked this one. The lyrics were great at painting a picture of the South. Favorite tracks were Louisiana, Rednecks, and the Marie Demo.

A really soothing and mellow listen. A bit surprised by the lyrics, but they do make sense since Newman is capturing the essence of being southern. A nice mix of somber songs with serious topics. I do love that this record predates his Pixar albums by 20+ years, but still sounds just like them. Top tracks: Marie, Mr. President (Have Pity on the Working Man), Louisiana 1927

This one really surprised me. Newman is so affable.

Classic US - Entertainer sound

Never heard him outside Disney movies. I enjoyed that! Some pretty insightful lyrics.

Mixed feelings.. Lyrics are disturbing. Reviews elsewhere reveal this. But the sound and feel audio wise, is very appealing. I don't know what to think. Maybe 4 stars, it's got something, and I want to hear the album unpacked by wiser minds than me, from a music viewpoint and from a racism viewpoint. That the album exists, is that white privilege? From today? Or the time of the album's release? What do colored folks feel about the album if it is a wry deconstruction of racism? What it it's straight out racist? But the sound is really engaging to me. I'm.perplexd. and for that, it's a good album.

p333. 1974. 4 stars. American satire at it's finest, with lyrics as sharp as a stiletto, and some great tunes. Guaranteed to cause offence. Strange that you can tune into any radio and hear rappers talk about n****s, but you'll never hear "Rednecks" played.

Probably need to listen to it a few more times to truly get it.

This plays an awful lot like a metropolitan Tom Waits. For how much I love Waits, I don’t know how I feel about this. Newman spins a nice yarn I suppose, but it lack the grittiness. However, he didn’t pull punches on the red necks, which I appreciate. I think online this after all. Maybe we just need more storytellers.

Impressive amount of slurs for a Toy Story sound track! 3.5 stars

Holy shit it's the guy who did 'You've Got a Friend in Me". I friggin love this guy! Going off of Spotify streams, it seems most of Randy Newman's most popular songs are Pixar scores - but before all that, there was this album: 'Good Old Boys'. Some moments here remind me a lot of Tom Waits' early works but less bar-fly and more pop. It's a cheery-sounding album a lot of the time but the lyrics on many of these songs tell a different story - like on the songs 'Mr. President (...)' and especially the opener 'Rednecks' which is one of the most striking criticisms of southern (and northern) racism I've heard from this time. There are also a few songs here dedicated to his hometown of Louisiana like the aptly titled 'Louisiana 1927' and 'Kingfish'. Lyrically speaking, it's as American as can get - albeit in an undeniably sarcastic and tongue-in-cheek way. It's a great album lyrically with quite a lot to chew on and the production and instrumentation here are lush and diverse all throughout its generous runtime. It's easy listening. But ultimately, it's Newman's singing flow and vocal style that gripped me the most here. It's such a loveable voice that works marvels in every context here, be it the slower songs, or the more upbeat ones. Such a great album and a tremendously enjoyable listen.

An interesting overall concept album (or at least strongly themed as one in its original release) that both presents a picture and makes commentary on it.

That first track is wild.

This is an album I struggle to rate. Is a concept album, based on the American south. It hits on some important topics. It has some historical facts. It’s clever. I suppose I need to give it credit for all that. That said, It is pretty dull to listen to. I’m would give it four stars because of all the historical commentary but it’s probably a 2.5 as a listener. This one really is all about the lyrics.

Yeah i liked this a lot :) converted

Some truly excellent socio political commentary and excellent satire that, sadly, is still relevant 50 years later. Didn't expect to like this but it defied my expectations.

Few white men can get away with using the sort language and words, that Newman carefully weaves into his sharp and satirical storytelling. It’s a thin line, but he balances perfectly.

14/9/24 Surprisingly enjoyed this album. Easy listen

i can't believe this works

Hadn't heard the album before, but I had heard a song or two. Really good songwriting. I like his willingness to take on some pretty difficult topics. I also like the nuance of his cultural commentary...Rednecks is critical of both the racist southerners and the self-righteous northerners. He adopts the perspectives of Southerners in generally empathetic terms. I also like the Ragtime-tinged Americana of the music.

Funny, and not a bad album!

Great album full of wonderful music with biting lyrics. I kept playing it again and again.

Pretty bangin'

Ambicioso álbum conceptual sobre el Sur de los Estados Unidos en el que el habitual e irónico sentido del humor de Randy Newman provocó una notable controversia, sobre todo por el tema "Rednecks". Si habitualmente las letras de Newman se deslizan en la frontera entre la sátira inteligente y la crueldad deliberada, en este disco la línea es más fina que en ninguno de sus otros trabajos. En cuanto al sonido, mantiene su estilo heredero del R&B de Nueva Orleans y la tradición pop, al que añade ecos del soul sureño y del country. El disco comienza con el citado tema "Rednecks", y un estribillo que dice algo así como "Somos paletos, paletos / No distinguimos nuestro culo de un agujero en el suelo / Somos paletos, somos paletos / Mantenemos a los negros abajo". Una sátira sobre el retraso social de muchos sureños blancos incapaces de adaptarse a los avances de la sociedad. Por debajo de esa sátira hiriente se desliza una mirada compasiva como la de "Birmingham", una divertida historia ambientada en la clase trabajadora de Alabama en la que, por supuesto, no falta el humor; "Louisiana 1927", sobre la gran indundación de Mississippi; O "A Wedding in Cherokee County", en la que un paleto impotente se casa con una friki de circo. Personalmente me gusta "Mr. President (Have Pity on the Working Man)", en la que Newman captura el sentimiento de agravio de los simples trabajadores ante un sistema político despiadado.

Breezy, folky piano ballads. Love the vibe. Maybe don't put rednecks on a public playlist

There's a reason he has some of the best movie albums of all time

Guy is hilarious and really most songs are just real easy to listen to.

Weird lyrics my man but really truly enjoyed the song structures and the flow. Played "Short People" after to complete the experience.

Actually a pretty fun little album. Short and sweet, but I enjoyed listening to it. I liked it more than I thought I would. On the lighter side of the 4s for me, but felt like more than a 3.

Listening to an album by the guy who sings "You got a Friend in Me" was one of the most random things that could have happened today. His voice takes me back to peaceful childhood days, free from worries and responsibilities. I feel at home. This album has very interesting songs that deal with heavier and even sad themes. And the interesting thing is that the same voice that sings a song as happy as "Toy Story" can easily adapt to songs that bring other types of feelings.

Randy Newman so casually goes for the jugular and his ear for composition is impeccable.

Folk-rock con piano. Está bien. Un 4.

Favorites: Back on My Feet Again, Naked Man This is an album very much of it's time, but once again relevant. The story-driven music often distracts from the disturbing lyrics with melodies drawn from his roots. Once again, 1001 Album Generator leads me down a path I wouldn't have taken with great results.

Pretty typical Newman album, although I was a bit thrown when he started spittin' the 'n' word like a member of NWA.

yep

Love his Southern accent he acquired being born in Hollywood CA. He’s one talented faux redneck. Lots of heavy hitters on this album. And it sounds like it. Good stuff.

It’s a great collection of songs, from satirical cuts like the controversial Rednecks to beautiful ballads like Marie, that Newman performs well in his idiosyncratic and easily likeable voice

This album is straightforward good fun catchy southern rock. I like it, I listen to some soft rock like Jack Johnson and this feels in the same vane with some soul and flair added on. The vocals are good and jazzy. The whole project maintains the sound that has that great quality that they picked for the theme song for toy story and I think it was a great choice.

"Her papa was a midget Her mama was a whore Her grandad was a newsboy 'til he was eighty four"

Mellow piano driven music with a sweet and sincere voice, nice blend of instruments and a jaded sarcastic view of the world, trying to say something. I like it. Randy's sound is so distinctive, it's hard not to picture Woody from Toy Story, strolling through the south, possibly singing the lyrics to Rednecks.

A lovely listen, if you can ignore the racial slurs (they're used in a tongue-in-cheek manner, so I'll let him slide). As per usual, I've got a bit of a hard time taking his voice seriously, but his lyrics tell wonderful, satirical stories. A lot of this album was low-key musically, which is I think the mode I like him in most. This album has a lot to say, but still flew by. I liked it.

Deserves more listens and more stars.

Best lekker

Sounds nice Fav songs: Birmingham Marie °~•

Nice!

This was a good political folk experience

Randy Newman is always a win.

surprisingly enjoyable

Again someone I wasn't familiar with apart from the Toy Story soundtrack. Make me wish I was in a piano bar.

Great Album! Such a fun listen, gotta be a staple in anyones collection.

Musically solid and lyrically inventive – typically high quality Newmaniana. “Marie” and “Guilty” are very strong. But “Louisiana 1927” stands apart – engaging, affecting, lovely, glorious. And the story-songs work more often than not. Of course, a lot of this would’ve seemed wittier and much easier to enjoy pre-MAGA.

has the unique power of offending everyone while at the same time making everyone feel like he’s on their side

I have a fun game for you to try. Find someone who grew up watching Toy Story as a kid and play them "Rednecks" from this groundbreaking album. If it weren't for one of the most identifiable voices in music history, they'd be hard pressed to believe they were listening to same guy that gave them "You've Got A Friend". That's the thing about Randy Newman, he's one of these artists with two phenomenally distinct career arcs and the prior arc is certainly my preferred. I had this Album on CD right after Highschool for reason and I probably haven’t listened to it in 20 years. Wow it all came back in an instant.