About the song
“Nutbush City Limits” is a song that holds a special place in the legacy of Tina Turner, capturing both her personal history and her distinctive musical style. Released in August 1973, this track is one of the final hits produced by the celebrated R&B duo Ike & Tina Turner before their separation. The song is a semi-autobiographical tribute to Tina Turner’s hometown of Nutbush, Tennessee, a small, unincorporated community in Haywood County.
The lyrics of “Nutbush City Limits” paint a vivid picture of Turner’s rural upbringing, reflecting on the life and character of Nutbush. Despite its modest size, Nutbush is depicted with a sense of pride and nostalgia in the song. The catchy chorus and rhythmic beat helped the song resonate with audiences, making it a notable part of the Turners’ repertoire.
The recording of “Nutbush City Limits” took place in May 1973 at the Turners’ Bolic Sound studio in Inglewood, California. Produced by Ike Turner, the song features innovative guitar work, a prominent clavinet, and a striking Moog synthesizer solo. The funky brass section adds to the track’s energetic and unique sound. Though the session musicians who contributed to the song were not credited, there has been much speculation about their identities. Alan Krigger, future drummer of Giuffria, claimed to have played drums on the track, while rumors have circulated about Marc Bolan from T. Rex playing guitar. However, these claims remain unconfirmed, with other sources attributing guitar work to James “Bino” Lewis.
“Nutbush City Limits” gained lasting popularity, and its influence extended beyond its initial release. The song’s danceable rhythm led to the creation of the “Nutbush” line dance in the 1970s, which gained substantial popularity in Australia during the 1980s and has continued to enjoy international recognition through social media platforms like TikTok.
In 1984, Tina Turner revisited “Nutbush City Limits” with a live version included as the B-side of her single “Private Dancer.” This performance differed from the 1988 live version released in Europe, showcasing Turner’s enduring connection to the song. “Nutbush City Limits” remains a cherished part of Tina Turner’s musical legacy, celebrating both her personal roots and her impact on the world of music.
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Lyrics
A church house, gin house
A school house, outhouse
On Highway Number Nineteen
The people keep the city clean
They call it Nutbush
Oh, Nutbush
Call it Nutbush city limits
Twenty-five was the speed limit
Motorcycle not allowed in it
You go t’the store on Fridays
You go to church on Sundays
They call it Nutbush, little old town
Oh, Nutbush
They call it Nutbush city limits
You go t’the field on week days
And have a picnic on Labor Day
You go to town on Saturdays
But go to church ev’ry Sunday
They call it Nutbush
Oh, Nutbush
They call it Nutbush city limits
No whiskey for sale
You get caught, no bail
Saltpork and molasses
Is all you get in jail
They call it Nutbush
Oh, Nutbush
Yeah, they call it Nutbush city
Nutbush city limits
Little old town in Tennessee
It’s called a quiet, little old community
A one-horse town
You have to watch
What you’re puttin’ down in old Nutbush
They call it Nutbush