About the song
The Band‘s “Up On Cripple Creek” is a quintessential track that exemplifies the group’s distinctive blend of rock, country, and Americana. Released in 1969 as a single from their seminal album The Band, the song is a remarkable showcase of their innovative musical style and storytelling prowess.
Written by Robbie Robertson, “Up On Cripple Creek” features a unique blend of rock and country influences, underscored by its use of a distinctive accordion riff played by Garth Hudson. This instrument adds an unusual but memorable texture to the song, setting it apart from more conventional rock tracks of the time. The song also features a laid-back, drum-driven groove that complements its folk and country elements, creating a sound that is both relaxed and infectious.
Lyrically, “Up On Cripple Creek” tells the story of a character who finds solace and escape in a small town, Cripple Creek, which is depicted with a mix of humor and nostalgia. The protagonist is portrayed as a sort of lovable rogue, navigating his way through life’s challenges with a blend of charm and resilience. The lyrics convey a sense of storytelling that reflects The Band‘s broader approach to music, blending vivid imagery with a touch of whimsy.
The track achieved significant success upon its release, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and climbing to number 2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. Its success was indicative of The Band’s growing popularity and their influence in the music industry, particularly within the genre of Americana and roots rock.
“Up On Cripple Creek” has maintained its popularity over the years, often cited as one of the standout tracks from The Band’s storied career. Its blend of engaging storytelling, innovative instrumentation, and memorable melody has ensured its place in music history. The song is frequently included in compilations of classic rock and Americana music and remains a favorite among fans and critics alike.
In summary, The Band‘s “Up On Cripple Creek” is a classic example of the group’s ability to merge different musical genres into a cohesive and engaging whole. With its unique sound, compelling lyrics, and innovative arrangements, the song exemplifies the spirit of The Band and their contribution to the evolution of rock and Americana music.
Video
Lyrics
“Up On Cripple Creek”
Straight down the Mississippi river, to the Gulf of Mexico
To Lake Charles, Louisiana, little Bessie, girl that I once knew
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
The odds were in my favor, I had ’em five to one
When that nag to win came around the track, sure enough she 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
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 as 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
Now there’s a flood out in California and up north it’s freezing cold
And this living on 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 kind of 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