Meaning of "Leave Them Boys Alone" by Hank Williams, Jr.

The song is a commentary on the pressures and criticisms that artists, particularly in the country music scene, face from the public and even their own fans. Hank Williams Jr. defends himself and other musicians like Waylon Jennings against accusations that they have strayed from their roots or disappointed their audiences. He recalls the influence that his father, Hank Williams, had on him and how fans can sometimes be overly critical. The repeated plea to "leave them boys alone" is a call for acceptance and understanding, highlighting the importance of allowing artists to evolve and express themselves without being stifled by external expectations. Overall, the lyrics emphasize the need for artistic freedom and the right for musicians to stay true to themselves, regardless of public opinion or scrutiny.