Donald Eugene Lytle was born in Greenfield, Ohio on May 31, 1938. He is better known by his stage name-- Johnny Paycheck. He was a member of the Grand Ol Opry, as well as the Outlaw Country movement. He rolled around with icons such as Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and David Allen Coe. His personality was as large as his hats. His time on the country music scene left a massive mark. Sadly, this legend passed away in 2003 at the age of 64.
To celebrate his birthday and to honor his career, here are three of our favorite songs.
“I’m The Only Hell (Mama Ever Raised)”
Like many in the outlaw scene, Johnny was seen as a bad seed. However, most of these artists had hearts of gold and were raised by mothers who probably deserved to be recognized as saints. When he sings this song, you can tell that his mother tried her best. Paycheck did run around with a rough crowd. He was “friends” with the Hell’s Angels and had multiple run ins with the law.
“Old Violin”
There is something special when an artist writes a song for their own funeral. “Old Violin” is that song. When Johnny compares himself to an instrument that has given its all to music, you can tell that he truly means it.
“Take This Job and Shove It”
To be honest, we all have wanted to play this song on our last day. “Take This Job and Shove It” is probably his most well-known song and it eventually became an anthem for the working class. It was originally written and recorded in 1977 by David Allen Coe.
