The aspiring country/western singer is named Art Long, and he struggles to make a name for himself in the music industry. He is constantly rejected by record labels and resorts to playing small gigs at local bars and honky-tonks. To make matters worse, his money is running out and he's on the brink of eviction from his apartment.
In a desperate move, Art decides to enter a "Tough Man" amateur boxing contest in a nearby town. He has no experience in boxing but is willing to take the risk for some quick cash. Art's fighting skills surprise everyone, including himself, and he ends up winning the tournament.
His victory catches the attention of a talent scout, who offers him a contract to compete in the national finals. Art is torn between his love for music and the temptation of fame and fortune in the "Tough Man" world. He begins to train rigorously for the competition, neglecting his music in the process.
Art's girlfriend, who is also a musician, tries to convince him to stay true to his passion for music and not get caught up in the hype of boxing. However, Art is tempted by the possibility of making it big and becoming a household name.
As the national finals approach, Art must decide whether to stick with his music or pursue his newfound success in the "Tough Man" circuit. The film ultimately explores the theme of chasing fame and fortune at the cost of losing oneself and one's true passion.