When the Levee Breaks
Joe McCoy, Kansas Joe McCoy, Kansas Joe & Memphis Minnie, Memphis Minnie
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If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break (2x) And the water gonna come in, have no place to stay Well all last night I sat on the levee and moan (2x) Thinkin' 'bout my baby and my happy home If it keeps on rainin', levee's goin' to break (2x) And all these people have no place to stay Now look here mama what am I to do (2x) I ain't got nobody to tell my troubles to I works on the levee mama both night and day (2x) I ain't got nobody, keep the water away Oh cryin' won't help you, prayin' won't do no good (2x) When the levee breaks, mama, you got to lose I works on the levee, mama both night and day (2x) I works so hard, to keep the water away I had a woman, she wouldn't do for me (2x) I'm goin' back to my used to be I's a mean old levee, cause me to weep and moan (2x) Gonna leave my baby, and my happy home
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10 facts about this song
Original Version"When the Levee Breaks" was first recorded by Kansas Joe McCoy and Memphis Minnie in 1929. The song was inspired by the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, one of the most severe natural disasters in U.S. history.
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Led Zeppelin’s CoverThe iconic British rock band Led Zeppelin covered the song in 1971 for their fourth album, often referred to as "Led Zeppelin IV". Their version is substantially different, embodying a distinct hard rock interpretation.
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Remake AnalysisLed Zeppelin's version of "When the Levee Breaks" is known for John Bonham's unmistakable drum performance. The drum sounds were achieved by recording the instrument at the bottom of a stairwell, giving it a reverberating and thunderous effect.
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Vocal ContributionRobert Plant, the lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin, altered nearly all the lyrics but retained the bluesy feel. His intense vocal delivery is widely regarded as one of his finest performances.
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Song RightsAlthough Led Zeppelin initially credited only themselves for the song, a lawsuit later ensured that Memphis Minnie was also credited due to the original version.
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Significance of the TitleThe metaphorical 'levee' in the song’s title refers to the levee system designed to protect areas of Mississippi and Louisiana from floods. When such a levee breaks, it results in immense destruction - a symbol employed in the song lyrics.
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Popularity"When the Levee Breaks" has stood the test of time, turning into a classic track that's still loved by fans of blues and rock music. Its influence is also notable in pop culture, with numerous artists covering or sampling the song.
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Other Artists’ InterpretationVarious artists such as A Perfect Circle, Kristin Hersh and W. A. S. P. have also covered the song. However, none have achieved the same level of success or recognition as the Led Zeppelin version.
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Minnie's LegacyMemphis Minnie was one of the earliest and most influential blues guitarists of her time. "When the Levee Breaks" is just one example of her extensive work, which paved the way for future generations of female blues musicians.
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Instrumental MasteryThe song features a harmonica played by Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, and slide guitar by Jimmy Page, adding to the song's distinctive blues-rock sound. It is often lauded as a masterpiece of musical arrangement and production.
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Citation
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"When the Levee Breaks Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 23 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/354745/Memphis+Minnie/When+the+Levee+Breaks>.
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