I've Got a Tiger by the Tail

Buck Owens

About I've Got a Tiger by the Tail

"I've Got a Tiger By the Tail" is a song made famous by country music band Buck Owens and the Buckaroos. Released in December 1964, the song was one of Owens' signature songs and showcases of the Bakersfield sound in the genre. In 1965, Dave Berry used "I've Got a Tiger By the Tail" as the B-side of his single "Little Things" and the single reached number 5 in the UK Singles Chart.


Year:
1965
2:12
671 
#2

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I've got a tiger by the tail, it's plain to see;
I won't be much when you get through' with me
Well, I'm a losing weight and a turnin' mighty pale
Looks like I've got a tiger by the tail

Well, I thought the day I met you, you were meek as a lamb;
Just the kind to fit my dreams and plans
But now, the pace we're livin' takes the wind from my sails
And it looks like I've got a tiger by the tail

I've got a tiger by the tail, it's plain to see;
I won't be much when you get through' with me
Well,I'm a losing weight and a turnin' mighty pale
Looks like I've got a tiger by the tail

Well, ev'ry night you drag me where the bright lights are found;
There ain't no way to slow you down
I'm as 'bout as helpless as a leaf in a gale;
And it looks like I've got a tiger by the tail

I've got a tiger by the tail, it's plain to see;
I won't be much when you get through' with me
Well, I'm a losing weight and a turnin' mighty pale
Looks like I've got a tiger by the tail

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Buck Owens

Alvis Edgar Owens, Jr. (August 12, 1929 – March 25, 2006), better known as Buck Owens, was an American singer and guitarist who had 21 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country music charts with his band, the Buckaroos. They pioneered what came to be called the Bakersfield sound—a reference to Bakersfield, California, the city Owens called home and from which he drew inspiration for what he preferred to call American music. more »

7 fans

Written by: Harlan Howard, Buck Owens

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, LEGACY OF HARLAN PERRY HOWARD, LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Music Genre
"I've Got a Tiger by the Tail" is considered a classic in the genre of country and western music.
Release Year
The song was released in 1965.
Album
"I've Got a Tiger by the Tail" is also the title track of the Buck Owens album of the same name.
Chart Performance
The song hit number 1 on the Billboard Country Singles chart in March 1965.
Songwriters
Buck Owens co-wrote "I've Got a Tiger by the Tail" with his longtime collaborator, Harlan Howard.
Longevity
Despite being released over 50 years ago, the song remains one of Buck Owens' most well-known tracks.
Recognition
'I've Got a Tiger by the Tail' became Buck Owens' signature song and helped cement his legacy in country music.
Cultural Impact
The term "I've Got a Tiger by the Tail" became a popular catchphrase in the 1960s, thanks to this song.
Performance
Buck Owens and his band, the Buckaroos, performed the song live on television on multiple shows, including the Ed Sullivan Show.
Inspiration
The song lyrics were inspired by an advertisement for Esso gasoline with a similar catchphrase "Put a tiger in your tank".
Cover Versions
Several artists have covered "I've Got a Tiger By the Tail," including country legends like George Jones and Charley Pride.
Legend's Pick
The song is one of country music superstar Garth Brooks' all-time favorite songs. He has often mentioned Buck Owens as a major influence on his own music.
Crossover Hit
The song also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Film Appearance
"I've Got a Tiger By the Tail" was also featured in the 1980 film Urban Cowboy, which starred John Travolta.
Legacy
Buck Owens' performance style on "I've Got a Tiger By the Tail" and his other hits of the 1960s helped pave the way for the Bakersfield sound, a rawer, more electric-infused style of country music.

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    "I've Got a Tiger by the Tail Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/190000/Buck+Owens/I%27ve+Got+a+Tiger+by+the+Tail>.

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    I've Got a Tiger by the Tail

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1965

    Billboard #25


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