The Band Up On Cripple Creek Lyrics

Publish date: 2024-05-09
Explore the captivating lyrics of 'Up on Cripple Creek' by The Band, a timeless musical journey that vividly portrays life's adventures and love's twists along the riverbanks of Cripple Creek. Immerse yourself in this folk-rock classic's storytelling charm and melodic allure

The Band Up on Cripple Creek Lyrics

When I get off of this mountain
You know where I wanna go?
Straight down the Mississippi River
To the Gulf of Mexico
To Lake Charles, Louisiana
Little Bessie, girl that I once knew
And she told me just to come on by
If there's anything she could do

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Up on Cripple Creek, she sends me
If I spring a leak, she mends me
I don't have to speak, she defends me
A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one

Good luck had just stung me
To the race track I did go
She bet on one horse to win
And I bet on another to show
Odds were in my favor
I had 'em five to one
And that nag to win came around the track
Sure enough we had won

Up on Cripple Creek, she sends me
If I spring a leak, she mends me
I don't have to speak, she defends me
A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one

I took up all of my winnings
And I gave my little Bessie half
And she tore it up and threw it in my face
Just for a laugh
Now there's one thing in the whole wide world
I sure would like to see
That's when that little love of mine
Dips her doughnut in my tea

Up on Cripple Creek, she sends me
If I spring a leak, she mends me
I don't have to speak, she defends me
A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one

Now me and my mate were back at the shack
We had Spike Jones on the box
She said, "I can't take the way he sings
But I love to hear him talk"
Now that just gave my heart a throb
To the bottom of my feet
And I swore and I took another pull
My Bessie can't be beat

Up on Cripple Creek, she sends me
If I spring a leak, she mends me
I don't have to speak, she defends me
A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one

There's a flood out in California
And up north it's freezing cold
And this living off the road
Is getting pretty old
So I guess I'll call up my big mama
Tell her I'll be rolling in
But you know, deep down, I'm kinda tempted
To go and see my Bessie again

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Up on Cripple Creek, she sends me
If I spring a leak, she mends me
I don't have to speak, she defends me
A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one

The Band Up on Cripple Creek Lyrics Meaning

Cripple Creek: This refers to a location, likely a creek or a town named Cripple Creek. In the context of the song, it's a place of significance to the singer.

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Mississippi River: One of the major rivers in the United States, flowing from the north to the Gulf of Mexico. The singer wants to go down the river to the Gulf.

Gulf of Mexico: A large body of water connected to the Atlantic Ocean, bordered by the southern United States and eastern Mexico.

Lake Charles, Louisiana: A city in Louisiana, USA. The singer mentions a person from there named "Little Bessie."

Nag: In this context, it refers to a horse, especially one that is not in the best condition for racing.

Odds: The probability or chance of something happening. The singer is discussing betting odds on horse racing.

Dips her doughnut in my tea: This is likely a playful and affectionate expression, suggesting a romantic or intimate action between the singer and his love interest.

Spike Jones: Spike Jones was a popular American musician and bandleader known for his comedic and unique musical performances.

Big mama: Referring to a significant or important person, often with a nurturing or protective connotation. In this case, it's likely someone the singer cares about.

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Rolling in: Coming back or returning, often used in the context of arriving back home.

Living off the road: Likely refers to a nomadic or transient lifestyle, living without a fixed home.

Deep down: This phrase means at a fundamental or subconscious level, suggesting an underlying feeling.

The Band

Hailing from the vibrant city of Toronto, Ontario, The Band came together in 1967 as a harmonious blend of Canadian and American talents. The ensemble featured the musical prowess of Canadians Rick Danko, Garth Hudson, Richard Manuel, and Robbie Robertson, complemented by the distinctive presence of American musician Levon Helm.

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The Band Up on Cripple Creek Lyrics - FAQ

1.  Where did The Band originate and when was it formed?

The Band originated in the lively city of Toronto, Ontario, and was formed in the year 1967.

2. Who were the members of The Band?

The Band consisted of talented individuals like Canadians Rick Danko, Garth Hudson, Richard Manuel, and Robbie Robertson, alongside the notable American musician Levon Helm.

3. What is the musical genre of The Band?

The Band is known for its contributions to rock music, blending Canadian and American talents to create a distinct and memorable sound.

4.  What were some of the notable accomplishments of The Band?

The Band's legacy includes their significant influence on rock music, their exceptional musical collaborations, and their memorable performances that continue to resonate with audiences today.

5. How did The Band's diverse composition contribute to their unique sound?

The Band's fusion of Canadian and American musicians brought together a rich variety of musical influences, resulting in a unique and captivating sound that set them apart in the rock music landscape.

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