1952 Vincent Black Lightning
Iain Banks, The Richard Thompson Band, Richard Thompson
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
Says Red Molly, to James, "Well that's a fine motorbike. A girl could feel special on any such like." Says James, to Red Molly, "My hat's off to you. It's a Vincent Black Lightning, 1952. And I've seen you on the corners and cafes, it seems. Red hair and black leather, my favorite color scheme." And he pulled her on behind, And down to Boxhill, They'd Ride. Says James, to Red Molly, "Here's a ring for your right hand. But I'll tell you in earnest I'm a dangerous man; For I've fought with the law since I was seventeen. I've robbed many a man to get my Vincent machine. And now I'm twenty-one years, I might make twenty-two. And I don't mind dyin' but for the love of you. But if fate should break my stride, then I'll give you my Vincent, To Ride." "Come down Red Molly," called Sargent McQuade. "For they've taken young James Aidee for Armed Robbery. Shotgun blast hit his chest, left nothing inside. Oh, come down, Red Molly, to his dying bedside." When she came to the hospital, there wasn't much left. He was runnin' out of road. He was runnin' out of breath. But he smiled, to see her cry. And said, "I'll give you my Vincent. To Ride." Said James, "In my opinion, there's nothing in this world Beats a '52 Vincent and a Redheaded girl. Now Nortons and Indians and Greavses won't do. Oh, they don't have a Soul like a Vincent '52." Well he reached for her hand and he slipped her the keys. He said, "I've got no further use...for these. I see Angels on Ariels in leather and chrome, Swoopin' down from Heaven to carry me home." And he gave her one last kiss and died. And he gave her his Vincent. To Ride.
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: Richard Thompson
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
14 facts about this song
Song Genre"1952 Vincent Black Lightning" is a folk and rock song written and performed by British songwriter Richard Thompson.
|
Thematic PremiseThe song describes a doomed romance between outlaw James and Red Molly in a classic motif of love, heroism, and death.
|
InspirationThompson was inspired to write the song by his fascination with motorcycles from a young age.
|
SymbolThe song's title refers to a classic British motorcycle, the Vincent Black Lightning, which is a symbol in the song representing freedom, rebellion, and a way of life.
|
Album"1952 Vincent Black Lightning" is a key track on the 1991 album "Rumor and Sigh."
|
AccoladesIn 2011, TIME magazine listed "1952 Vincent Black Lightning" as one of its 'All-TIME 100 Songs'.
|
Song VariationThe song has been covered by several musicians in different styles including bluegrass and country.
|
Live Acoustic ExperienceIt is most often performed as a solo acoustic piece, highlighting Thompson's guitar skills and poignant storytelling prowess.
|
Language UseDespite being a British song, the lyrics are distinctly in American English which reflects Thompson’s targeting of the song towards an American audience.
|
Realistic ImageryThe song paints vivid images of the 1950s era which is regarded as some of Thompson's finest songwriting.
|
Song StructureIt's known for its elaborate melody and fixed chord progression that runs through the entire song, a signature of Thompson's songwriting style.
|
PopularityIt is one of the most requested songs at Thompson's concerts.
|
Cultural Impact"1952 Vincent Black Lightning" has been recognized for its contribution to a subgenre known as motorcycle song tradition.
|
Distinct LeitmotifThe song uses a motorcycle as a leitmotif, symbolizing youthfulness, risk, and transgression.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"1952 Vincent Black Lightning Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 8 Jun 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/5229698/Richard+Thompson/1952+Vincent+Black+Lightning>.
Discuss the 1952 Vincent Black Lightning Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In