About the song
“Can’t You See” is a timeless Southern rock classic by The Marshall Tucker Band, released in 1973. This iconic song was written by the band’s lead guitarist and primary songwriter, Toy Caldwell. It is featured on their self-titled debut album, “The Marshall Tucker Band,” which played a significant role in defining the sound of Southern rock in the 1970s.
The song opens with a memorable flute riff by Jerry Eubanks, setting the tone for its heartfelt and soulful melody. Caldwell’s gravelly voice delivers the poignant lyrics, which tell a story of heartache and a longing for escape. The chorus, “Can’t you see, oh, can’t you see, what that woman, she been doin’ to me,” resonates with listeners through its raw emotional power and simplicity.
“Can’t You See” did not achieve immediate chart success upon its release but has since become one of the band’s signature songs and a staple of classic rock radio. It epitomizes the blend of rock, blues, and country influences that characterize Southern rock, with extended instrumental sections showcasing the band’s musicianship.
Over the years, “Can’t You See” has grown in popularity, achieving a cult status among fans of the genre. It has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in the pantheon of rock classics. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal theme of heartbreak and the quest for solace, making it relatable across generations.
The Marshall Tucker Band’s debut album, bolstered by the strength of “Can’t You See,” helped establish the band as one of the leading acts in the Southern rock movement. The album itself has been praised for its eclectic mix of musical styles and its ability to capture the spirit of the American South.
For many older listeners, “Can’t You See” evokes a sense of nostalgia, recalling a time when Southern rock was at its peak. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful instrumentation continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved classic that stands the test of time.
“Can’t You See” is more than just a song; it is a testament to the enduring power of music to express deep emotions and connect with listeners on a profound level. Its legacy endures as a symbol of The Marshall Tucker Band’s contribution to rock music and the timeless nature of their artistry.
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Lyrics
… I’m gonna take a freight train
Down at the station, Lord
I don’t care where it goes
Gonna climb a mountain
The highest mountain
I’ll jump off, nobody gonna know
… Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, she’s been doin’ to me?
… I’m gonna find me a hole in the wall
I’m gonna crawl inside and die
‘Cause my lady, now a mean ol’ woman, Lord
Never told me goodbye
… Can’t you see, oh, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she’s been doin’ to me?
… I’ve gone to buy a ticket now, as far as I can
Ain’t a-never coming back
Ride me a southbound, all the way to Georgia now
‘Til the train, it run out of track
… Can’t you see, oh, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, she’ been doin’ to me?
Oh, dear Lord
… Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, she been doin’ to me?
… Can’t you see (oh, she’s such a crazy lady), can’t you see
What that woman (what that woman) she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see (Lord, I can’t stand), can’t you see
What that woman (oh), she been doin’ to me
… Can’t you see (I’m gonna take a freight train), can’t you see (I’m down at the station, Lord)
What that woman, she been doin’ to me (ain’t never comin’ back, oh boy)
Can’t you see (gonna ride me a southbound, now)
Can’t you see (all the way to Georgia, Lord)
What that woman, she been doin’ to me? (‘Til the train run out of track, oh)