About the song
In the realm of American music, few songs have captured the essence of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage like “Jambalaya”. This iconic tune, originally recorded by Hank Williams Sr. in 1952, has been reimagined and reinterpreted by numerous artists over the years. Among the most notable renditions is Brenda Lee’s 1961 cover, which has become a staple of her impressive discography.
Born Brenda Mae Tarpley in Atlanta, Georgia, Brenda Lee rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s with her powerful, soulful voice and energetic stage presence. With a career spanning over six decades, she has earned numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
Lee’s version of “Jambalaya” is a masterclass in blending traditional country and rockabilly styles with the vibrant rhythms and instrumentation of zydeco music, which originated in southwest Louisiana. The song’s origins date back to the 1930s, when it was written by Hank Williams Sr. and his friends, who drew inspiration from the Creole and Cajun cuisines of the region. The dish jambalaya, a hearty one-pot meal of rice, meat, and spices, has become synonymous with Louisiana’s cultural identity.
Brenda Lee’s “Jambalaya” is a testament to her ability to adapt and interpret songs in her own unique way. Her rendition features a driving beat, courtesy of the legendary drummer, D.J. Fontana, and a memorable guitar riff that adds a touch of rockabilly flair. Lee’s vocals are characterized by her signature growl and a sense of playfulness, which brings a sense of joy and energy to the performance.
Throughout her career, Brenda Lee has been praised for her versatility, having recorded songs in multiple genres, including country, rock and roll, pop, and R&B. Her rendition of “Jambalaya” is a shining example of her ability to blend different styles and create something truly special. This iconic song has become an integral part of American music history, and Brenda Lee’s version is a must-listen for fans of classic country and rock and roll.
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Lyrics
Well, goodbye Joe, me gotta go, me oh, my oh
Me gotta go, pole the pirogue down the bayou
My Yvonne the sweetest one, me oh, my oh
Son of a gun, we’ll have big fun on the bayou
Well, jambalaya and a crawfish pie and fillet gumbo
‘Cause tonight I’m gonna see my ma cher amio
I’m gonna pick guitar, fill fruit jar and be gay-o
Well, son of a gun we’ll have big fun on the bayou
Thibodaux Fontaineaux the place is buzzin’
Kinfolks come to see Yvonne by the dozen
Yeah, dressed in style and go hog wild, me oh, my oh
Well, son of a gun we’ll have big fun on the bayou
Well, jambalaya and a crawfish pie and fillet gumbo
‘Cause tonight I’m gonna see my ma cher amio
I’m gonna pick guitar, fill fruit jar and be gay-o
Well, son of a gun we’ll have big fun on the bayou
Settle down far from town get me a pirogue
And I’ll catch all the fish in the bayou
Gonna spend my money gettin’ Yvonne what she need-o
Son of a gun we’ll have big fun on the bayou
Well, jambalaya and a crawfish pie and fillet gumbo
‘Cause tonight I’m gonna see my ma cher amio
I’m gonna pick guitar, fill fruit jar and be gay-o
Well, son of a gun we’ll have big fun on the bayou