Junco Partner

The Clash

About Junco Partner

"Junco Partner" is a blues song first recorded by James Waynes in 1951. It has been recorded and revised by many other artists over several decades, including Louis Jordan, Michael Bloomfield, Dr. John, Professor Longhair, James Booker, Hugh Laurie, and The Clash. It has been covered in various genres of music including blues, folk, rock, reggae, and dub.


Year:
1980
4:52
499 
#3

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Down the road came a Junco Partner
For he was loaded  as can be
He was knocked out, knocked out loaded
He was a'wobblin' all over the street

Singing six months ain't no sentence
And one year ain't no time
I was born in Angola
Serving fourteen to ninety nine

Well I wish I had me a million dollars
Oh one million to call my own
I would raise meat and say, "grow for me baby"
I would raise me a tobacco farm

Well I wish I would have me a great deal of money
Yeah and mighty good things all over town
Now I ain't got no more money
All of my good friends are putting me down

So now I gotta pawn my rifle and pistol
Yeah I'm gonna pawn my watch and chain
I would have pawned my seat Gabriella
But the smart girl she wouldn't sign her name

Give me headstone when I die

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The Clash

The Clash were an English punk rock band that formed in 1976 as part of the original wave of British punk. Along with punk, their music incorporated elements of reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap, dance, and rockabilly. For most of their recording career, the Clash consisted of Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass guitar, vocals) and Nicky "Topper" Headon (drums, percussion). Headon left the group in 1982, and internal friction led to Jones's departure the following year. The group continued with new members, but finally disbanded in early 1986. more »

6 fans

Written by: Robert Shad

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


15 facts about this song

Origins
"Junco Partner" is not originally by The Clash. The song has roots in an early traditional New Orleans jailhouse chant named "Junco Partner".
Earlier Versions
It was first performed and recorded by James Waynes in 1951, becoming a R&B hit.
Influence
The tune of "Junco Partner" has been a favorite by countless artists for years, and several versions exist by musicians like Warren Zevon, Dr. John, and The Clash.
Unique Revamp
The Clash drastically revamped the song and featured it on their album "Sandinista!" which was released in 1980.
Usage of the Song
It was often used as an opening song during The Clash's live performances.
Themes
The song discusses crime, drug use, and prison life, often considered as a haunting number.
Title Meaning
The term "Junco Partner" is derived from "Junkie Partner" or a drug-using companion.
Key Variations
The Clash's version of "Junco Partner" tended to play with the song’s original tempo, offering slower and sped-up renditions.
Relevance
It was a staple in their setlist during the historic 17-night run at Bond's Casino in Times Square in 1981.
Cover Versions by Band Members
Mick Jones, a member of The Clash, also performed "Junco Partner" with his post-Clash band Big Audio Dynamite.
Live Versions
A live version of the song can be heard on the album "Live at Shea Stadium", which documented The Clash's opening performance for The Who in 1982.
Musical Style
The Clash's version of "Junco Partner" has a unique blend of punk, reggae, and dub music.
Songwriting Credits
The Clash's version of the song gives songwriting credit to Robert Ellen, although it is based on the traditional song that has been adapted by multiple artists.
Album Success
The album "Sandinista!" that features "Junco Partner" was critically acclaimed and reached the top 20 of the UK Albums Chart.
Persistence
Even after disbanding in 1986, The Clash's version of "Junco Partner" remains a fan favorite and an essential part of their discography.

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