The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show
The Band
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When your arms are empty, got nowhere to go Come on out and catch the show There'll be saints and sinners You'll see losers and winners All kinds of people you might want to know Once you get it, you can't forget it W.S. Walcott medicine show You know he always holds it in a tent And if you're looking for the real thing He can show you where it went There's a young faith healer, he's a woman stealer He will cure by his command When the music's hot then you might have to stand To hear the Klondike Klu Klux Steamboat Band Don't you sweat it, you can't forget it W.S. Walcott medicine show I'd rather die happy than not die at all For a man is a fool who will not heed the call Gonna see Miss Brer Foxhole Bright diamonds at her teeth She is pure gold down underneath She's a rock and roll singer and a true dead ringer For something like you ain't never seen Once you get it, you can't forget it W.S. Walcott medicine show W.S. Walcott medicine show W.S. Walcott medicine show
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
Written by: Robbie Robertson
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
History and release"The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show" is a song by the Canadian-American rock group The Band. It is the seventh track on their third studio album, "Stage Fright", which was released in the year 1970.
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Song's ConceptThe song discusses a traveling show featuring a variety of performers, reminiscent of old-time vaudeville shows. The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show is depicted as a traveling entertainment troop that offers an escape from the humdrum and troubles of everyday life.
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Lyrical InspirationThe song was inspired by the real-life minstrel and medicine man W.S. Walcott who toured Ontario and Quebec in the early 20th century. The Band members, who were Canadian, likely picked up on this bit of local folklore in their youth.
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Songwriting Details"The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show" was penned by The Band's chief songwriter and pianist, Robbie Robertson. Robertson was known for his storytelling style of songwriting, often referencing historical or societal themes.
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Trend BreakerMusically, the song breaks from the moodier, introspective tone of much of the "Stage Fright" album, evoking a more upbeat, celebration-like atmosphere harking back to the sound of their earlier albums.
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Critics' TakeCritics often note "The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show" for its approach to celebrating the past. The spirited blend of rock and roll, country, and folk is seen as symbolic of The Band's appreciation for musical tradition.
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Musical ArrangementKnown for their musicianship, The Band infused "The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show" with rich vocal harmonies, a strong piano driven rhythm supported by drums and a dynamic bass line, with layers of organ and horns adding to its energetic sound.
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Live PerformancesThe song became a fan favorite at live performances, where The Band would often extend the track with instrumental jam sessions showcasing their individual talents.
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Cover VersionsWhile not as frequently covered as some of The Band's other songs, "The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show" has been performed by several artists over the years, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
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LegacyToday, the song is often cited as an indicator of The Band's unique style and their ability to blend a sense of nostalgic Americana with rock and roll. It continues to captivate listeners with its vivid storytelling and infectious rhythm.
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