Mule Skinner Blues

Bill Monroe

About Mule Skinner Blues

"Mule Skinner Blues" (a.k.a. "Blue Yodel #8", "Muleskinner Blues", and "Muleskinner's Blues") is a classic country song written by Jimmie Rodgers and George Vaughan. The song was first recorded by Rodgers in 1930 and has been recorded by many artists since then, acquiring the de facto title "Mule Skinner Blues" after Rodgers named it "Blue Yodel #8" (one of his Blue Yodels). "George Vaughn", a pseudonym for George Vaughn Horton, is sometimes listed as co-author. Horton wrote the lyrics for "New Mule Skinner Blues", Bill Monroe's second recorded version of the song.  


Year:
2008
2:45
55 
#1

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Good morning captain good morning son
Do you need another mule skinner
Out on your new road line
Well I like to work 

I'm rolling all the time
Lord I like to work boy 
I'm rolling all the time
I can pop my initials 

Right on a mule's behind
Well it's hey little water boy bring your water 'round
Lord it's hey little water boy bring your water 'round
And if you don't like your job just set that water bucket down

I work out on the new road from a dollar and a dime a day
Lord I work out on the new road I make a dollar and a dime a day
I've got three women on Saturday night 
Waiting to draw my pay

Well I'm going to town honey what can I bring you back
Well I'm going to town baby what can I bring you back
Just bring a pint of good rye 
And a John B.Stetson hat

Lord it's raining here and it's storming on the deep blue sea
Lord it's raining here and it's storming on the deep blue sea
Can't no blonde headed woman make a monkey out for me
If your house catches fire and there ain't no water 'round

If your house catches fire and there ain't no water 'round
Just throw your good gal out the window let your house just burn on down
Well I'm leaving here and I ain't gonna take no clothes
I'm leaving here and I ain't gonna take no clothes

There may be good times in this old town but it's better on down the road

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Bill Monroe

William Smith Monroe (September 13, 1911 – September 9, 1996) was an American musician who created the style of music known as bluegrass, which takes its name from his band, the "Blue Grass Boys," named for Monroe's home state of Kentucky. Monroe's performing career spanned 60 years as a singer, instrumentalist, composer and bandleader. He is often referred to as The Father of Bluegrass. more »

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Written by: Jimmie Rodgers, George Vaughn

Lyrics © Peermusic Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Original Release
One of the most interesting facts about "Mule Skinner Blues" is that it was originally released by Jimmie Rodgers in 1930. However, the song was significantly popularized by Bill Monroe's cover version which came out two decades later in 1950.
Musicianship
The song showcases Bill Monroe's outstanding musicianship. His skilled mandolin playing is a highlight of "Mule Skinner Blues," and contributes greatly to its unique sound.
Live Debut
Bill Monroe first played the song live on the "Grand Ole Opry" show - a revered stage for country and folk musicians - just before he recorded it. His fascinating performance garnered appreciation leading to the studio recording.
Influence
"Mule Skinner Blues" has been termed as one of the defining songs of the country-bluegrass genre. Bill Monroe, often referred to as the "father of bluegrass," used the song to help shape and define the genre.
Energetic Appeal
Bill Monroe's dynamic and energetic vocal performance in "Mule Skinner Blues" is one of the song's many appealing features. He imitated the sound of a mule skinner's yell, adding a unique charm to the piece.
Covers
The song's popularity has led to numerous cover versions over the years, by artists across various genres. Artists such as Dolly Parton and Bob Dylan have covered "Mule Skinner Blues," and it has been translated into a number of languages.
Grammy Hall of Fame
In 1998, "Mule Skinner Blues" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame - a testament to its lasting influence in the world of music.
Thematic Elements
“Mule Skinner Blues” lyrically tells the story of a down-on-his-luck mule skinner, reflecting the tough economic times of its original release in the 1930s, during the Great Depression.
Evolution
Over time, the song has seen various interpretations both in terms of lyrics and musical arrangement, demonstrating its ever-evolving and versatile nature.
Cultural Impact
The phrase "Mule Skinner," synonymous with a mule driver, entered the wider lexicon, particularly in the south of the United States, after the popularity of the song.

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