Johnny's In The Basement Mixing Up The Medicine Lyrics
The Story Behind the Song
Bob Dylan is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his poetic lyrics and unique sound. "Johnny's in the Basement Mixing Up the Medicine" is a classic Dylan song, released in 1965 on his album "Highway 61 Revisited". The song was an instant hit and has since become one of his most beloved tracks.
The lyrics of the song are cryptic and surreal, as is often the case with Dylan's work. The title itself is a reference to a line from the blues song "The Coo-Coo Bird", which goes "The coo-coo bird, she's a pretty bird/She warbles as she flies/But she never hollers cuckoo/Till the fourth day of July". Dylan has cited this song as an inspiration for "Johnny's in the Basement Mixing Up the Medicine".
The Meaning of the Lyrics
The song begins with the line "Johnny's in the basement mixing up the medicine", which sets the tone for the rest of the track. The lyrics are a surrealistic collage of images and phrases, which can be difficult to decipher. However, many fans and critics have attempted to interpret the meaning behind the words.
One interpretation of the song is that it is a commentary on the state of America in the mid-1960s. The lyrics mention "the National Guard", "the FBI", and "the CIA", all of which were involved in the political turmoil of the time. The line "you don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows" has been interpreted as a reference to the radical left-wing group the Weather Underground, which emerged in the late 1960s.
Another interpretation of the song is that it is a surrealistic portrait of a drug experience. The lyrics mention "the tambourine man", a reference to drugs such as LSD, which were popular in the 1960s counterculture. The line "he says 'It's time to live again'" can be interpreted as a call to embrace the psychedelic experience and break free from the constraints of society.
The Legacy of the Song
"Johnny's in the Basement Mixing Up the Medicine" is a classic Dylan song that has stood the test of time. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Dead Kennedys, The Ramones, and The Hold Steady. The song's cryptic lyrics and surreal imagery have inspired countless fans and musicians, and it continues to be a beloved track in Dylan's extensive discography.
In conclusion, "Johnny's in the Basement Mixing Up the Medicine" is a classic Bob Dylan song that has captivated audiences for over 50 years. Its surrealistic lyrics and cryptic imagery have inspired countless interpretations and continue to intrigue fans and critics alike. Whether you interpret the song as a commentary on the state of America or a portrait of a drug experience, it remains a powerful and enduring piece of music.