About the song
Cher’s “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” is a dramatic and captivating song that showcases her unique vocal prowess and storytelling ability. Released in 1971, this song became one of Cher’s most successful solo hits, marking a high point in her career and demonstrating her ability to tackle complex themes with a distinctive blend of pop, rock, and folk influences.
Cher, born Cherilyn Sarkisian, has had a remarkable career spanning multiple decades, during which she has reinvented herself numerous times. Known for her distinctive contralto voice and bold persona, Cher has excelled in music, television, and film, becoming a true pop culture icon. “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” was a significant release for her, as it was one of the first major hits of her solo career, following her success as part of the duo Sonny & Cher.
The song was written by Bob Stone and produced by Snuff Garrett, who was instrumental in crafting the sound of Cher’s early solo work. “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” features a compelling narrative delivered through a blend of folk-pop and storytelling. The arrangement includes a prominent acoustic guitar, lush strings, and a catchy, gypsy-inspired melody that complements the lyrical content.
Lyrically, “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” tells the story of a girl born into a marginalized family, exploring themes of poverty, prejudice, and the resilience of the human spirit. The song’s narrator describes her life growing up in a traveling show, where her family faces discrimination and hardship. The chorus, with its memorable refrain “Gypsys, tramps, and thieves, we’d hear it from the people of the town,” captures the stigma and judgment the family endures from mainstream society.
The narrative takes a personal turn as the young girl recounts her experiences, including an affair with a drifter that results in pregnancy and further societal ostracization. The song’s story is a poignant reflection on the struggles faced by those on the fringes of society and the complexities of identity and belonging. It highlights issues of class and social stigma while showcasing Cher’s ability to convey deep emotion and empathy through her vocal performance.
Cher’s delivery of the song is powerful and emotive, showcasing her deep, rich voice and her capacity for dramatic expression. Her vocal performance captures the song’s emotional depth, conveying both vulnerability and defiance. The chorus, with its strong, anthemic quality, is particularly impactful, making “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” not only a compelling story but also a memorable and catchy song.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Cher’s first solo chart-topping single. It also achieved international success, charting highly in several other countries. The song’s popularity was further solidified by Cher’s charismatic performances and her unique style, which helped to define the visual and musical aesthetic of the early 1970s.
“Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” remains one of Cher’s most iconic songs, celebrated for its bold narrative, catchy melody, and the distinctive voice of its performer. It continues to be a highlight of her live performances and a favorite among fans, reflecting the enduring appeal of Cher’s music and her ability to tackle socially relevant themes through pop music.
In summary, Cher’s “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” is a classic pop song that combines storytelling with a compelling musical arrangement. The song’s narrative, exploring themes of prejudice and resilience, is delivered with emotional depth by Cher’s distinctive voice, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences. Its success marked a pivotal moment in Cher’s career and cemented her status as a versatile and influential artist.
Video
Lyrics
“Gypsies, Tramps And Thieves”
My mama used to dance for the money they’d throw
Papa would do whatever he could
Preach a little gospel
Sell a couple bottles of Doctor Good
Gypsies, tramps and thieves
We’d hear it from the people of the town
They’d call us gypsies, tramps and thieves
But every night all the men would come around
And lay their money down
Picked up a boy just south of Mobile
Gave him a ride, filled him with a hot meal
I was sixteen, he was twenty-one
Rode with us to Memphis
And papa would’a shot him if he knew what he’d done
Gypsies, tramps and thieves
We’d hear it from the people of the town
They’d call us gypsies, tramps and thieves
But every night all the men would come around
And lay their money down
I never had schooling but he taught me well
With his smooth southern style
Three months later I’m a gal in trouble
And I haven’t seen him for a while, oh
I haven’t seen him for a while, oh
She was born in the wagon of a traveling show
Her mama had to dance for the money they’d throw
Grandpa’d do whatever he could
Preach a little gospel
Sell a couple bottles of Doctor Good
Gypsies, tramps and thieves
We’d hear it from the people of the town
They’d call us gypsies, tramps and thieves
But every night all the men would come around
And lay their money down
Gypsies, tramps and thieves
We’d hear it from the people of the town
They’d call us gypsies, tramps and thieves
But every night all the men would come around
And lay their money down
Gypsies, tramps and thieves