About the song
“Up On Cripple Creek” by The Band is a song that holds a special place in the history of American music. Released in 1969, it became one of the group’s most beloved tracks, showcasing their unique blend of rock, blues, and country influences. The song was featured on their second album, *The Band*, which solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and talented groups of the era.
The song’s lyrics, written by Robbie Robertson, tell the story of a truck driver who spends his time on the road, stopping at various places and recounting his adventures. The character’s affection for his love interest, Bessie, is central to the song, as he reflects on the joy she brings him when he’s not on the road. The storytelling in “Up On Cripple Creek” is a fine example of The Band’s ability to weave narratives into their music, making their songs feel like vivid, living tales.
One of the most memorable aspects of “Up On Cripple Creek” is the distinctive use of the clavinet, an electric keyboard played by Garth Hudson. The instrument’s funky, playful sound adds a unique flavor to the song, making it instantly recognizable. Levon Helm, the band’s drummer, takes on lead vocal duties, delivering the lyrics with his signature soulful style that captures the laid-back yet emotional essence of the song.
The Band’s performance of “Up On Cripple Creek” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* in 1969 is particularly noteworthy. Appearing on such a prestigious and widely-watched program was a significant moment for the group, bringing their music to an even broader audience. Their performance was characterized by their tight musicianship and the genuine camaraderie among the band members, something that fans had come to admire. The live rendition of the song on *The Ed Sullivan Show* captured the energy and spirit of The Band, further cementing their place in the pantheon of great American rock acts.
Over the years, “Up On Cripple Creek” has remained a fan favorite and a staple in The Band’s live performances. It reflects the group’s deep roots in American musical traditions, blending various genres in a way that feels both timeless and innovative. For those who appreciate storytelling in music, this song stands as a shining example of how narrative and melody can come together to create something truly special. The Band’s ability to connect with their audience through songs like “Up On Cripple Creek” is a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of music.
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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
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
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