From the original 1975 version, the meaning is a freedom that we knew during that time. My first and only love, Keith, sang "Long Haired Country Boy" on the school bus. He had beautiful long hair, and was an original bad boy rebel with a good and kind heart. He was "who he was" and made no apologies. I loved him with all of my being, and still do. This song encompassed the essence of Keith and everytime I hear it, or think of it, he is with me. Once in a generation a song comes along, and for us, this one was it. Thank you Charlie Daniels, he loved your song, and so do I.