About the song
Little Feat’s “Dixie Chicken” is a quintessential example of the band’s eclectic blend of rock, blues, country, and funk. Released in 1973 on their album of the same name, the song has become a live favorite, often featuring guest appearances from other notable musicians. This particular version, recorded live in 1977 with Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt, showcases the song’s enduring appeal and the power of collaboration.
The song’s narrative, a playful and humorous tale of a man’s pursuit of a woman, is brought to life through Lowell George’s soulful vocals and the band’s tight musicianship. The infectious groove, driven by Bill Payne’s Hammond organ and Richie Hayward’s steady drumming, provides a solid foundation for the song’s melodic exploration. George’s lyrics, filled with colorful imagery and witty observations, paint a vivid picture of the protagonist’s infatuation.
The addition of Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt, two of the most iconic female voices in American music, elevates the song to new heights. Harris’s crystalline vocals complement George’s raspy baritone, while Raitt’s slide guitar playing adds a bluesy edge to the arrangement. The interplay between the three singers creates a harmonious blend that is both soulful and uplifting.
“Dixie Chicken” is a testament to Little Feat’s enduring legacy. The song’s infectious energy, catchy melody, and insightful lyrics have made it a timeless classic. This live version, featuring the talents of Emmylou Harris and Bonnie Raitt, is a must-listen for fans of the band and lovers of great music.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve seen the bright lights of Memphis and the Commodore Hotel
And underneath a streetlamp, I met a southern belle
Well, she took me to the river, where she cast her spell
And in that southern moonlight, she sang a song so well
If you’ll be my Dixie chicken, I’ll be your Tennessee lamb
And we can walk together down in Dixieland
Down in Dixieland
Well, we made all the hot spots, my money flowed like wine
Then that low down southern whiskey began to fog my mind
And I don’t remember church bells or the money I put down
On the white picket fence and boardwalk of the house at the edge of town
Oh, but boy, do I remember the strain of her refrain
The nights we spent together, and the way she called my name
If you’ll be my Dixie chicken, I’ll be your Tennessee lamb
And we can walk together down in Dixieland
Down in Dixieland
Well, it’s been a year since she ran away
Yes, that guitar player sure could play
She always liked to sing along, she’s always handy with a song
Then one night in the lobby, yeah, of the Commodore Hotel
I chanced to meet a bartender who said he knew her well
And as he handed me a drink, he began to hum a song
And all the boys there, at the bar, began to sing along
If you’ll be my Dixie chicken, I’ll be your Tennessee lamb
And we can walk together down in Dixieland
Down in Dixieland