Unveiling the Story Behind Johnny Horton’s Legendary Song – The Battle Of New Orleans
Have you ever wondered about the historical tale woven into Johnny Horton’s iconic country music track, «The Battle Of New Orleans»? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into the captivating world of this timeless classic.
The Battle Unfolds – A Glimpse into History
Let’s transport ourselves back to the recording booth on April 6, 1959, the day Johnny Horton brought this masterpiece to life. Penned by Jimmy Driftwood, produced by Don Law, it was not included in its release on any album, only released as a single, accompanied on the B-side by «All for the Love of a Girl,» the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot Country Songs.
Decoding the Message – What’s the Song All About?
Now, let’s unravel the layers of «The Battle Of New Orleans.» This musical gem narrates the historic Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812, blending Horton’s storytelling prowess with a foot-tapping country melody. The lyrics vividly depict the clash between British and American forces, making history come alive through the power of music.
The Maestro Behind the Mic – Johnny Horton’s Legacy
Johnny Horton, a trailblazer in the country music scene, achieved several number one hits, and «The Battle Of New Orleans» stands as a testament to his musical prowess. Beyond its commercial success, the song earned Horton the Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Performance, solidifying his place in the country music hall of fame.
Beyond its catchy tune, «The Battle Of New Orleans» encapsulates the spirit of resilience and patriotism. Horton’s storytelling transports listeners to a pivotal moment in history, fostering a connection between the past and present.
In conclusion, Johnny Horton’s «The Battle Of New Orleans» isn’t just a song; it’s a journey through time, a celebration of storytelling, and a masterpiece that continues to resonate with country music enthusiasts worldwide.
COUNTRYPEDIA
Johnny Horton – The Battle Of New Orleans lyrics
[Verse 1]
In 1814 we took a little trip
Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip
We took a little bacon and we took a little beans
And we caught the bloody British in a town near New Orleans
[Chorus]
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they begin to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
[Verse 2]
We looked down a river
(Hut-two)
And we see’d the British come
(Three-four)
And there must have been a hundred of’em
(Hut-two)
Beatin’ on the drums
(Three-four)
They stepped so high
(Hut-two)
And they made their bugles ring
(Three-four)
We stood beside our cotton bales
(Hut-two)
And didn’t say a thing
(Two-three-four)
[Chorus]
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they begin to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
[Verse 3]
Old Hickory said we could take ‘em by surprise
(One-hut, two-three-four)
If we didn’t fire our muskets
(One-hut, two-three-four)
‘Till we looked ‘em in the eye
(One-hut, two-three-four)
We held our fire
(Hut, two-three-four)
‘Till we see their faces well
Then we opened up our squirrel guns
And really gave ‘em – well we
[Chorus]
Fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they begin to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
[Verse 4]
Yeah, they ran through the briars
(One-hup-two)
And they ran through the brambles
(Hup-two-three-four)
And they ran through the bushes
(Hup-two)
Where the rabbit couldn’t go
(Hup-two-three-four)
They ran so fast
(Hup-two)
That the hounds couldn’t catch ‘em
(One-two-three-four)
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
(One-two, hup-two-three-four)
[Verse 5]
We fired our cannon ‘til the barrel melted down
So we grabbed an alligator and we fired another round
We filled his head with cannon balls, and powdered his behind
And when we touched the powder off the gator lost his mind
[Chorus]
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t nigh as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they begin to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
[Verse 4]
Yeah, they ran through the briars
(Hup-one-two)
And they ran through the brambles
(One-two-three-four)
And they ran through the bushes
(Hup-two)
Where the rabbit couldn’t go
(Hup-two-three-four)
They ran so fast
(Hup-two)
That the hounds couldn’t catch ‘em
(One-two-three-four)
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
I owe my soul to the company store
GENIUS
