About the song
Paul Revere & The Raiders, a band synonymous with the British Invasion era, ventured beyond the typical pop and rock sounds of the time with their 1966 hit, “Indian Reservation.” This song, a psychedelic-infused exploration of Native American culture and history, marked a significant departure from their earlier material.
The track opens with a hypnotic, repetitive drumbeat that sets the stage for a journey into the unknown. The lyrics, written by Frank Valle, paint a vivid picture of a desolate and forgotten Indian reservation, a place haunted by the ghosts of the past. The imagery is evocative, with references to “lonely tepees” and “a broken tribe.”
The music itself is a blend of pop, rock, and psychedelic elements. The guitar work is particularly noteworthy, featuring both melodic solos and driving rhythms. The keyboard adds a touch of psychedelia, creating a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. The song’s arrangement is both complex and accessible, making it a captivating listening experience.
“Indian Reservation” was a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also helped to establish Paul Revere & The Raiders as one of the leading bands of the mid-1960s. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its unique blend of musical styles, its evocative lyrics, and its exploration of a culturally significant topic.
While some critics have questioned the band’s appropriation of Native American culture, “Indian Reservation” remains a fascinating and influential piece of music. It is a testament to the band’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
Video
Lyrics
They took the whole Cherokee nation
Put us on this reservation
Took away our ways of life
The tomahawk and the bow and knife
Took away our native tongue
And taught their English to our young
And all the beads we made by hand
Are nowadays made in Japan
Cherokee people
Cherokee tribe
So proud to live
So proud to die
They took the whole Indian nation
Locked us on this reservation
Though I wear a shirt and tie
I’m still part redman deep inside
Cherokee people
Cherokee tribe
So proud to live
So proud to die
But maybe someday when they learn
Cherokee nation will return, will return
Will return, will return, will return