About the song
In the tapestry of American music, there are songs that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and resonate with listeners on a personal level. One such song is “Poor Poor Pitiful Me,” brought to life by the illustrious Linda Ronstadt. Released in 1978 as part of her acclaimed album Simple Dreams, this track stands out as a vibrant and lively expression of Ronstadt’s remarkable range and charisma.
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a spirited, slightly tongue-in-cheek country-rock anthem that showcases Ronstadt’s knack for blending genres with ease. The song, originally written and recorded by the talented Warren Zevon, has been embraced for its catchy tune and witty lyrics. It tells the story of a protagonist who laments their unfortunate romantic entanglements with a mix of humor and self-deprecation. Through Ronstadt’s powerful and expressive delivery, the song turns personal woes into a spirited celebration of resilience and wit.
Linda Ronstadt, whose career spans several decades and includes a diverse array of musical styles, delivers this song with her signature flair. Her rendition of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a testament to her versatility, effortlessly blending a sense of playful irony with a robust, engaging performance. The upbeat tempo and Ronstadt’s charismatic vocals create a sense of joy and liberation, making the song both entertaining and memorable.
Listeners of all ages can appreciate the charm of “Poor Poor Pitiful Me.” For those who have followed Ronstadt’s career from its early days, the song is a delightful reminder of her exceptional ability to infuse emotion and personality into every performance. For newer listeners, it’s a wonderful introduction to her distinctive voice and the rich, eclectic nature of her musical repertoire.
In essence, “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a celebration of Linda Ronstadt’s remarkable artistry and her ability to turn personal storytelling into a universally enjoyable experience. Whether you’re revisiting this classic hit or discovering it anew, it’s a song that promises to leave a lasting impression with its infectious energy and timeless appeal.
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Lyrics
Well, I lay my head on the railroad track
Waiting on the double E
But the train don’t run by here no more
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Oh, these boys won’t let me be
Lord, have mercy on me
Woe, woe is me
Well, I met a man out in Hollywood
Now I ain’t naming names
Well, he really worked me over good
Just like Jesse James
Yes, he really worked me over good
He was a credit to his gender
Put me through some changes, Lord
Sort of like a waring blender
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Oh, these boys won’t let me be
Lord, have mercy on me
Woe, woe is me
Well, I met a boy in the Vieux Carres
Down in Yokohama
He picked me up and he threw me down
He said, “Please don’t hurt me, mama”
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Oh, these boys won’t let me be
Lord, have mercy on me
Woe, woe is me
Poor, poor, poor me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor, poor me
Poor, poor pitiful me
Poor, poor, poor me
Poor, poor pitiful me