Much like last week’s inspection of boxing, the life of the outlaw has a long and storied history in the fabric of America. The open spaces of the west were often rather unlawful. Dime novels sprang up commemorating folks like Billy the Kid, Jesse James, The Wild Bunch, and many others both real and false. This tradition trickled down into the 20th Century. From the original Scarface to John Dillinger, movies, books, and comics sprouted up to both capitalize upon and mythologize these figures. Today we take a look at some of the music that sprang from these wild legends…legends that inspired more than just American artists, as you shall see.
Oddly enough, one of the first songs that pops into my head when I think about outlaws is Serge Gainsbourg’s duet with the immaculate Brigitte Bardot, Bonnie and Clyde. This duet begins with the artists assumption that we have all read the story of Jesse James before cooing that we should “Ecoutez l’histoire de Bonnie and Clyde.”
This song is evidence of the significant pull Americana has long held over our Gallic neighbors across the Atlantic. While most often Bonnie and Clyde are made out as horrific, devilish killers, Serge attempts to find the humanity within their story.
Somewhat akin to this is self-elevation in a song, particularly notable in the work of many blues artists. Whether it’s Mannish Boy or Crawlin’ Kingsnake, there is a line of outlaw’ish braggadocio to be found in many blues artists. Bo Diddley’s Gunslinger is one that straddles both the old west and the brash blues. Gunslinger-Bo Diddley
While the gun slinging functions on an obvious parallel with his guitar skills, the track puts Bo Diddley right in the famous shootout at the OK Corral. With a rose on his chest and a gun on his hip, he would clear the streets of the west.
The root of all this outlaw-ism in reality and in song can be traced to one individual. As the root of these evil deeds and the proud nature that attempts to glorify them, he lurks about. Long has he lived in our consciousness, tantalizing us with word and deed, but always out of reach. Can’t you guess his name?
I always love your wednesday picks, Lewis. Altogether they make a sweet playlist. My two bit afterthought: Birkin's accent wasn't so saucy, she was a limey. Serge was singing with Bardot in that one.
thebluebird
Glad you dig them, mon frere. Birkin was a limey, but I assure you she can sing French (and moan) quite well... As for Bardot, you are correct....I've had Birkin in my head all morning courtesy of *Je t'aime moi non plus* and successfully mixed up the two. Mea culpa!
Wonderful Wednesday: Outlaws
Much like last week’s inspection of boxing, the life of the outlaw has a long and storied history in the fabric of America.
The open spaces of the west were often rather unlawful. Dime novels sprang up commemorating folks like Billy the Kid, Jesse James, The Wild Bunch, and many others both real and false. This tradition trickled down into the 20th Century. From the original Scarface to John Dillinger, movies, books, and comics sprouted up to both capitalize upon and mythologize these figures. Today we take a look at some of the music that sprang from these wild legends…legends that inspired more than just American artists, as you shall see.
Oddly enough, one of the first songs that pops into my head when I think about outlaws is Serge Gainsbourg’s duet with the immaculate Brigitte Bardot, Bonnie and Clyde. This duet begins with the artists assumption that we have all read the story of Jesse James before cooing that we should “Ecoutez l’histoire de Bonnie and Clyde.”
Bonnie and Clyde-Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot
Serge & the devilishly attired Jane Birkin
This song is evidence of the significant pull Americana has long held over our Gallic neighbors across the Atlantic. While most often Bonnie and Clyde are made out as horrific, devilish killers, Serge attempts to find the humanity within their story.
Somewhat akin to this is self-elevation in a song, particularly notable in the work of many blues artists. Whether it’s Mannish Boy or Crawlin’ Kingsnake, there is a line of outlaw’ish braggadocio to be found in many blues artists. Bo Diddley’s Gunslinger is one that straddles both the old west and the brash blues.
Gunslinger-Bo Diddley
While the gun slinging functions on an obvious parallel with his guitar skills, the track puts Bo Diddley right in the famous shootout at the OK Corral. With a rose on his chest and a gun on his hip, he would clear the streets of the west.
The root of all this outlaw-ism in reality and in song can be traced to one individual. As the root of these evil deeds and the proud nature that attempts to glorify them, he lurks about. Long has he lived in our consciousness, tantalizing us with word and deed, but always out of reach. Can’t you guess his name?
Sympathy for the Devil