About the song
Southern rock, a genre born from the heart of the American South, has always been synonymous with raw energy, heartfelt storytelling, and a deep connection to the land. One of its most iconic bands, Lynyrd Skynyrd, has left an indelible mark on the genre with their anthemic tunes and powerful lyrics. Among their many classics, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” stands out as a poignant and evocative tribute to a friend and fellow musician.
Released in 1973 on their debut album, “Lynyrd Skynyrd,” this song is a quintessential example of the band’s storytelling prowess. It delves into the life and tragic fate of Curtis Loew, a close friend of the band members who was killed in a car accident. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Loew’s character, his love for music, and the impact of his untimely passing on those who knew him.
The song begins with a mournful guitar riff that sets the tone for the somber tale to follow. The lyrics recount Loew’s humble upbringing in the South, his passion for music, and his dreams of making it big. The imagery is evocative, conjuring up images of late-night jam sessions, dusty roads, and the camaraderie of the band members.
The chorus is particularly poignant, as it reflects on the bittersweet nature of Loew’s memory. The lines “Curtis Loew, he was a friend of mine/He played a mean guitar, a southern style” capture the essence of his character and the deep affection the band members held for him.
The bridge of the song introduces a more reflective tone, as the narrator contemplates the fragility of life and the inevitability of loss. The lyrics “We all got to go sometime/But it’s a shame to see a young man die” express a profound sense of sadness and regret.
The song concludes with a powerful instrumental section that builds to a crescendo, reflecting the intensity of the emotions conveyed in the lyrics. The final notes fade out, leaving the listener with a sense of loss and contemplation.
“The Ballad of Curtis Loew” is more than just a song; it is a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions and preserve memories. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s heartfelt tribute to their fallen friend serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have and honoring those we have lost.
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Lyrics
Well I used to wake the morning, before the rooster crowed
Searching for soda bottles to get myself some dough
Brought ’em down to the corner, down to the country store
Cash ’em in and give my money to a man named Curtis Loew
Old Curt was a black man with white curly hair
When he had a fifth of wine he did not have a care
He used to own an old dobro used to play it across his knees
I’d give old Curt my money he’d play all day for me
Play me a song Curtis Loew, Curtis Loew
Well I got your drinking money tune up your dobro
People said he was useless, them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis Loew was the finest picker to ever play the blues
He looked to be sixty and maybe I was ten
Mama used to whoop me but I’d go see him again
I’d clap my hands stomp my feet, try to stay in time
He’d play me a song or two then take another drink of wine
Well play me a song Curtis Loew, Curtis Loew
Well I got your drinking money tune up your dobro
People said he was useless them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis Loew was the finest picker to ever play the blues
Yes sir
On the day old Curtis died nobody came to pray
Ol’ preacher said some words and they chunked him in the clay
Well he lived a lifetime playin’ the black man’s blues
And on the day he lost his life that’s all he had to lose
Play me a song Curtis Loew, hey Curtis Loew
I wish that you was here so everyone would know
People said you were useless them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis you’re the finest picker to ever play the blues