Tell It To Me Old Crow Medicine Show Lyrics
Old Crow Medicine Show is an American string band that was formed in 1998. The band is known for their unique blend of old-timey music, bluegrass, and folk. Their music has been described as "carnival Americana" and "punk old-time".
One of the band's most popular songs is "Tell It To Me". The song was originally written and recorded by blues musician Reverend Gary Davis in 1935. Old Crow Medicine Show's version of the song was released in 2004 on their album "O.C.M.S." The song has since become a fan favorite and a staple of the band's live shows.
"Tell It To Me" Lyrics
Well, the cuckoo's a pretty bird, she warbles as she flies
But I never give her water till the fourth day of July
Jack of diamonds, Jack of diamonds, I know you of old
You robbed my poor pockets of silver and gold
Tell it to me, tell it to me, tell it to me if you will
Down in the valley where the waters run still
Well, the buzzard told the monkey, "You're chokin' me"
"Release your hold and I'll set you free"
Well, the monkey looked the buzzard right dead in the eye
Said, "Your story's so touching but your nose is a lie"
Tell it to me, tell it to me, tell it to me if you will
Down in the valley where the waters run still
Well, the birds started singin' and the bells began to ring
Seven women in the jailhouse all a-gonna sing
It's a-lengthenin' chain and a-shortenin' ball
And every time they jerk that thing, they thought that they would fall
Tell it to me, tell it to me, tell it to me if you will
Down in the valley where the waters run still
Analysis of the Lyrics
The lyrics of "Tell It To Me" are a mix of traditional folk lyrics and original lyrics by Old Crow Medicine Show. The song is a fast-paced, upbeat tune that tells a story of a variety of characters, from a pretty bird to a monkey and a buzzard.
The song's chorus, "Tell it to me, tell it to me, tell it to me if you will, down in the valley where the waters run still" is a call for the listener to share their own stories and experiences. The valley where the waters run still is a metaphor for a place of peace and reflection.
The lyrics also touch on themes of love, loss, and betrayal. The line "Jack of diamonds, Jack of diamonds, I know you of old, you robbed my poor pockets of silver and gold" is a reference to a traditional folk song about a gambler who steals from his friends.
Conclusion
"Tell It To Me" is a classic Old Crow Medicine Show song that showcases the band's unique blend of old-timey music and punk rock attitude. The lyrics are a mix of traditional folk lyrics and original lyrics by the band, and the song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite.
If you haven't already, give "Tell It To Me" a listen and see why Old Crow Medicine Show is one of the most beloved bands in Americana music.