About the Song
Johnny Horton‘s “The Battle of New Orleans” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless piece of Americana that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. Released in 1959, this folk ballad recounts the dramatic events of the War of 1812 and Andrew Jackson’s victory over the British at the Battle of New Orleans. Horton’s vivid storytelling and catchy melody transformed a historical event into a foot-stomping, sing-along anthem.
What makes this song so enduring? It’s a perfect blend of history, music, and a touch of the dramatic. Horton’s deep, resonant voice brings the story to life, painting vivid pictures of the battle. The lyrics are simple yet effective, making them easy to remember and sing along to. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation, including the iconic trumpet solo, create a sense of excitement and triumph.
Beyond its musical appeal, “The Battle of New Orleans” has a unique place in American popular culture. It’s a song that has been covered by countless artists, from country to rock, and has appeared in numerous films and television shows. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to connect with people on a deep level. It’s a celebration of American patriotism, a reminder of our nation’s history, and a testament to the power of music to bring people together.
Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or simply someone looking for a good tune, “The Battle of New Orleans” is a song that’s worth a listen. It’s a reminder that even the most serious of subjects can be made entertaining and memorable through the power of music.
Would you like me to focus on a specific aspect of the song, such as its historical context, musical style, or cultural impact? Here are some additional ideas we could explore:
- Historical context: We could delve deeper into the Battle of New Orleans and its significance in American history.
- Musical style: We could analyze the song’s musical elements, such as the key, tempo, and instrumentation, and compare it to other songs of the era.
- Cultural impact: We could discuss how the song has been used in films, television, and advertising, and how it has influenced subsequent generations of musicians.
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Lyrics: The Battle of New Orleans
In 1814 we took a little trip
Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip
We took a little bacon and we took a little beans
And we caught the bloody British in the town of New OrleansWe fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoWe looked down the river and we seen the British come
And there must have been a hunnerd of ’em beatin on the drum
They stepped so high and they made their bugles ring
We stood beside our cotton bales ‘n’ didn’t say a thingWe fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoOld Hickory said we could take ’em by surprise
If we didn’t fire our muskets till we looked ’em in the eye
We held our fire ’till we seed their faces well
Then we opened up the squirrel guns and really gave em
Well weFired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoYeah they ran through the briars and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoWe fired our cannon till the barrel melted down
So we grabbed an alligator and we fought another round
We filled his head with cannonballs and powered his behind
And when we touched the powder off the gator lost his mindWe fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoYeah they ran through the briars and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of MexicoHup, 2, 3, 4
Sound off, 3, 4
Hup, 2, 3, 4
Sound off, 3, 4
Hup, 2, 3, 4
Sound off, 3, 4