About the song
Bobbie Gentry, a name synonymous with the golden era of country music, has gifted us with countless gems. Among these, “Louisiana Man” stands out as a testament to her storytelling prowess and deep connection to her Southern roots. Released in 1968 as part of her album “The Delta Sweete”, this track is a nostalgic journey through the heart of the American South.
“Louisiana Man” is more than just a song; it’s a vivid portrait of a region and its people. Gentry’s lyrics paint a picturesque scene of life in the Bayou State. The melody is both haunting and comforting, mirroring the complex emotions that often accompany tales of love and loss. The rhythm has a steady, almost hypnotic quality that draws the listener in and holds them captive.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its narrative. Gentry’s storytelling abilities are on full display as she weaves a tale of a woman longing for a love that may be lost. The imagery is rich and evocative, transporting the listener to the swamps and bayous of Louisiana. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a deep connection to a place or a person.
The song’s production is also noteworthy. The arrangement is sparse yet effective, allowing Gentry’s vocals and the lyrics to take center stage. The use of instruments like the pedal steel guitar gives the song an authentic country feel. The sound quality, even when compared to modern recordings, holds up remarkably well, a testament to the timeless nature of the song.
“Louisiana Man” was a commercial success upon its release, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, its legacy extends far beyond its chart performance. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and it continues to be a staple of classic country radio.
In conclusion, “Louisiana Man” is a timeless masterpiece that showcases Bobbie Gentry’s talent as a songwriter and performer. It’s a song that transports listeners to another time and place, and it’s a testament to the enduring power of music. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate well-crafted songs, “Louisiana Man” is a must-listen.
Video
https://youtu.be/m7Adbr6V4q4
Lyrics
At first Mom and Poppa called the little girl a lady
They raised her on the banks of a river bedA house boat tied to a big tall tree
A home for my poppa and my momma and meThe clock strikes three Poppa jumps to his fee
Already Moma’s cookin’ Poppa somethin’ to eat
At half past Poppa he’s a ready to go, he jumps in
His pirogue headed down the bayouHe’s got fishin’ line strung across the Louisiana River
Got to catch a big fish for us to eat
He’s settin’ his traps catchin’ anything he can
Gotta make a livin’ he’s a Louisiana man, gotta make
A livin’ he’s a Louisiana manMuskrat hides hangin’ by the dozen
Even got a little bitty muskrat cousin
Got ’em out dryin’ in the hot hot sun
Tomorrow Poppa’s gone turn ’em into moneyThey call Moma Rita and my Daddy Jack
My little baby brother on the floor that’s Mac
Rhett and Lynn are the family twins
Big brother Eddie’s on the bayou fishin’On the river floats Poppa’s great big boat
That’s how me and Poppa get in to town
It takes every bit of a night and day to even reach
A place where the people stayOh I can hardly wait until tomorrow comes around
That’s the day my Poppa takes the furs to town
Poppa done promised me that I could go
He’d even let me see a cowboy showI saw the cowboys and Indians for the first time then
I told my Poppa “gotta go again” but Poppa says
“Hon we got lines to run
We’ll have to come again
‘Cause there’s work to be done”He’s got fishin’ line strung across the Louisiana River
Got a catch a big fish for us to eat
He’s settin’ his traps catchin’ anything he can
Gotta make a livin’ he’s a Louisiana man
Gotta make a livin’ he’s a Louisiana manPoppa done promised me that I could go
He’d even let me see the cowboy showI saw the cowboys and indians for the first time then
I told my Poppa “Gotta go again” but Poppa said
“Hon, we got lines to run
We’ll have to come again
‘Cause there’s work to be done”He’s got fishin’ line strung across the Louisiana River
Got a catch a big fish for us to eat
He’s settin’ his traps catchin’ anything he can
Gotta make a livin’ he’s a Louisiana man
Gotta make a livin’ he’s a Louisiana man