"Busted" is a song originally written by Harlan Howard and recorded by country music artist George Jones in 1963. The lyrics tell the story of a man who finds himself in a difficult financial situation. He is unable to pay his bills, his cows are not producing milk, his hens are not laying eggs, and his debts are piling up. Desperate for assistance, the man asks his brother to lend him money, but his brother cannot help because his own family is dealing with illness. The protagonist expresses his frustration and helplessness as he is unable to provide for his family and faces the prospect of losing his belongings. The chorus of the song repeatedly emphasizes the word "Busted," conveying the sense of being financially ruined and at the end of his rope. The man reflects on the difficult choices people can make when they are desperate, even hinting that he could turn to thieving to survive. The lyrics also touch upon the loss of stored food and crops, indicating a significant loss of resources and a lack of future prospects. Despite the uncertain future, the man remains determined to find a way to make a living, although he is unsure of where or how. The song is a poignant depiction of financial hardships and the struggle to make ends meet. It captures the feelings of frustration, helplessness, and resilience that many people can relate to during challenging times.
