Oliver Anthony surges to GLOBAL NUMBER ONE on Apple Music as overnight sensation’s stirring lament for America ‘Rich Men North of Richmond’ dominates airwaves
Virginia factory worker Oliver Anthony has a certified hit on his hands with “Rich Men North of Richmond,” as the song climbed to No. 1 on Apple Music’s global charts.
The song, released in early August, tops the list alongside well-known names such as Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, Travis Scott and compatriot Morgan Wallen.
‘Rich Men North of Richmond’ has gained mass acclaim for its ‘chilling’ depiction of the life of the ‘average man’ in the United States.
Lyrics include, “Lord it’s a damn shame / What happened to the world / For people like me and people like you / I wish I could just wake up and it’s not true.”
The music video for the song, which features Anthony strumming a guitar and singing soulfully to the camera, has racked up more than 18 million views in a week.
Virginia factory worker Oliver Anthony (pictured) has a certified hit on his hands with “Rich Men North of Richmond,” as the song climbed to No. 1 on Apple Music’s global charts
The song, which was released in early August, has topped the Apple Music charts
Anthony, who lives in Farmville – an hour outside of Richmond – has said the song is meant to share the struggles of the worker.
“The universal thing I see is that no matter how much effort they put into whatever they’re doing, they can’t get all the way ahead because the dollar isn’t worth enough, they’re taxed too much,” said Anthony.
“I want to be a voice for those people. And not just them, but people in general,” the singer-songwriter explained of “Rich Men North of Richmond.”
“As long as you’re above the dirt, you have a fighting chance,” he continued.
On Spotify, the song has received almost 6 million listens in just five days.
The tune has been adopted as the “workers’ song” by many conservatives, while some progressives have remained skeptical because of its lyrics.
The song is about child trafficking and even references the late billionaire Jeffrey Epstein and his illegal activities involving minors.
“I wish politicians looked out for minors and not just minors on an island,” Anthony sings in the song, which lasts just over three minutes.
The singer also addresses out-of-touch politicians, high taxes and those who abuse the system by ‘milking wealth’.
“Lord, we have people on the street, nothing to eat and the obese fanciers,” he sings. “Well God, if you’re five feet eight and weigh 300 pounds, the tax shouldn’t be paying for your sacks of fudge.”
Oliver Anthony’s song beat country singer Morgan Wallen (left) and Taylor Swift (right)
Anthony, who lives in Farmville – an hour outside of Richmond – has said the song is meant to share the struggles of the worker
The song received an immediate response: it climbed the charts and millions around the world shared how it touched them.
“I am a 40 year old Iraqi vet marine. This one also made my eyes a little soggy… But I’m very proud of this young man for having the cahones to tell it like it is. Semper Fidelis Oliver,” one person wrote on YouTube.
“This is the first time a non-gospel song has brought tears to my eyes and left me speechless. This is beautifully written and so true,” said one woman.
‘I am 75 years old. I have worked overtime for bullshit all my life and I approve of this post,” added another.
“I’ve been an ironworker for 17 years and broke is an understatement for my finances. This song is the “American dream,” wrote one person who resonated.
Outside the US, supporters of the musician have weighed in on social media
Speaking from Ireland, this song is an emotional masterpiece. It really moves me multiple times every time I play it,” one person wrote.
“You’re talking about the majority of the 🌎F**k the rich men north of Richmond.”
‘Just a boy from Greece here… Lifelong dream to move to the US one day. Some would say that a song like this should only discourage me, but damn… I’ve always been inspired by his people, his true people, his heart and soul, and this man singing this song is a good example’ said another commenter. shared on YouTube.
“This song is not just for the US, this song should bring all people together, at least all those whose hearts are in the right place,” the commenter continued.
Since going live, Anthony’s song has also been welcomed with open arms by many in the music industry.
A man, Jason Howerton, said on Twitter that “legendary country producer” John Rich has offered to pay Anthony to record his debut album.
Howerton also claimed in a tweet that Rich will produce the album for the singer.
Clearly overwhelmed by the song’s success, Anthony posted on Facebook that he is “so thankful” for the support and is working on new music and shows.
“I’m in the process of scheduling gigs and will post a calendar when it’s available.”