Oliver Anthony is a name many didn’t know until August. Then, his song “Rich Men North of Richmond” went viral and hit the top of the Billboard Hot 100. That song and the controversy it created put him in the middle of the ongoing culture war. Now, he’s using that newfound notoriety to introduce the world to more of his music.
Videos by American Songwriter
Anthony first released “Rich Man’s Gold” in 2022. On October 5, he posted an updated video for the song. The video shows the singer/songwriter in the woods with his dogs, resonator in hand. Check it out below.
There’s a reason the setting of the video looks familiar. In the clip’s description, Anthony stated that he recorded it the same day he recorded his viral hit. The same outdoor recording session produced “90 Some Chevy” and “I Want to Go Home.”
Much like his previous releases, “Rich Man’s Gold” is a call for a simpler life. However, unlike “Rich Men North of Richmond,” this song doesn’t see Anthony addressing the economically disadvantaged people who enjoy the occasional sweet treat. Instead, he digs into his family history as a way to discuss how it is possible to be happy with less.
Anthony highlights his grandfather’s story throughout the song. The Farmville, Virginia native says the county in which he lived was “dirt poor.” However, he grew tobacco, raised hogs, and had seven kids and a few dogs. While some would see that as a hard life, listeners get the sense that Anthony’s grandfather was happy with what he had built.
[RELATED: Oliver Anthony Says He’s Still “Not Signing” Record Deals After Adding Agent]
This is much more than a song about the songwriter’s family, though. It’s a bit of hard-won wisdom for his listeners. The chorus nails down the spirit of the song: You weren’t born to just pay bills and die. / All you need is a dog, a shack, a creek in the back / And a good woman to hold / You don’t need that rich man’s gold.
Those who are hoping to hear more from Anthony are in luck. In the video’s description, he wrote, “Expecting to release at least two brand new songs in December.”
Experience the electrifying energy of Oliver Anthony live on stage. Mark your calendars for the Oliver Anthony Tour 2024!
Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images
