About the song
The Marshall Tucker Band’s “Can’t You See,” released in 1973, stands as a cornerstone of Southern rock music. This iconic track, with its infectious melody and powerful lyrics, has resonated with audiences for decades.
The song’s opening riff, a signature tune for the band, immediately sets a soulful and energetic tone. The guitar work, characterized by its bluesy inflections and intricate solos, is a testament to the band’s musical prowess. The rhythm section, anchored by a driving bassline and steady drumming, provides a solid foundation for the melodic elements.
Lyrically, “Can’t You See” explores themes of social injustice and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. The song’s protagonist, seemingly a weary traveler, laments the hardships he has endured and calls for a more equitable society. The lyrics are delivered with raw emotion and a sense of urgency, reflecting the band’s commitment to social and political issues.
The song’s arrangement is both dynamic and cohesive, with a well-paced structure that builds tension and climaxes effectively. The harmonies between the vocalists are particularly impressive, adding depth and richness to the overall sound. The bridge, with its poignant lyrics and melodic shift, serves as a powerful emotional moment before the energetic final chorus.
“Can’t You See” continues to be a beloved and influential song, a testament to the enduring appeal of Southern rock music. Its blend of soulful melodies, powerful lyrics, and exceptional musicianship has solidified its place in the annals of rock history.
Video
Lyrics
I’m gonna take a freight train
Down at the station, Lord
I don’t care where it goes
Gonna climb a mountain
The highest mountain
I’ll jump off, nobody gonna know
Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, she’s been doin’ to me?
I’m gonna find me a hole in the wall
I’m gonna crawl inside and die
‘Cause my lady, now a mean ol’ woman, Lord
Never told me goodbye
Can’t you see, oh, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she’s been doin’ to me?
I’ve gone to buy a ticket now, as far as I can
Ain’t a-never coming back
Ride me a southbound, all the way to Georgia now
‘Til the train, it run out of track
Can’t you see, oh, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, can’t you see
What that woman, she’ been doin’ to me?
Oh, dear Lord
Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, Lord, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see, whoa, can’t you see
What that woman, she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see (oh, she’s such a crazy lady), can’t you see
What that woman (what that woman) she been doin’ to me?
Can’t you see (Lord, I can’t stand), can’t you see
What that woman (oh), she been doin’ to me
Can’t you see (I’m gonna take a freight train), can’t you see (I’m down at the station, Lord)
What that woman, she been doin’ to me (ain’t never comin’ back, oh boy)
Can’t you see (gonna ride me a southbound, now)
Can’t you see (all the way to Georgia, Lord)
What that woman, she been doin’ to me? (‘Til the train run out of track, oh)