The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show

The Band

About The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show

"The W. S. Walcott Medicine Show" is a song written by Robbie Robertson that was first released on the Band's 1970 album Stage Fright. It was also frequently performed in the group's live sets and appeared on several of their live albums. Based on Levon Helm's memories of minstrel and medicine shows in Arkansas, the song has been interpreted as an allegory on the music business. Garth Hudson received particular praise for his tenor saxophone playing on the song.


Year:
2013
3:50
106 
#2

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

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!


The Band

The Band were a Canadian-American roots rock group that originally consisted of Rick Danko (bass guitar, double bass, fiddle, trombone, vocals), Levon Helm (drums, mandolin, guitar, vocals), Garth Hudson (keyboard instruments, saxophones, trumpet), Richard Manuel (piano, drums, baritone saxophone, vocals) and Robbie Robertson (guitar, vocals). The members of the Band first came together as they joined rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins's backing group, The Hawks, one by one between 1958 and 1963. more »

9 fans

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.
Song's Concept
The 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.
Lyrical Inspiration
The 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.
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.
Trend Breaker
Musically, 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.
Critics' Take
Critics 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.
Musical Arrangement
Known 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.
Live Performances
The song became a fan favorite at live performances, where The Band would often extend the track with instrumental jam sessions showcasing their individual talents.
Cover Versions
While 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.
Legacy
Today, 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.

Discuss the The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/32460007/The+Band/The+W.S.+Walcott+Medicine+Show>.

    Missing lyrics by The Band?

    Know any other songs by The Band? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show

    55,912
    567     8

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Neil Finn is more known as a member of which band?
    A Erasure
    B Spandau Ballet
    C ABC
    D Crowded House

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    The Band tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!