“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something unmistakably charming about the old-timey tune “Mountain Dew” by Grandpa Jones. The song evokes a sense of nostalgia, conjuring images of simpler times filled with lively gatherings and toe-tapping music. Whether you’re a fan of bluegrass or just enjoy a good story set to music, “Mountain Dew” is a delightful piece that captures the essence of Americana.
About The Composition
- Title: Mountain Dew
- Composer: Bascom Lamar Lunsford
- Premiere Date: 1928
- Album/Opus/Collection: Unknown
- Genre: Bluegrass
Background
“Mountain Dew” began its life as a folk tune in the Appalachian region, capturing the cultural essence of the area. Composed by Bascom Lamar Lunsford in 1928, the song quickly became a staple in the American folk and bluegrass repertoire. Its catchy melody and humorous lyrics about homemade moonshine resonated with audiences during the Prohibition era, offering a light-hearted take on a serious subject.
Musical Style
The musical style of “Mountain Dew” is quintessentially bluegrass, characterized by its fast-paced rhythm, banjo picking, and fiddle accompaniment. The song’s lively tempo and simple chord progression make it an engaging piece that invites listeners to clap along.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Mountain Dew” tell a playful story about the joys and challenges of making and enjoying homemade moonshine. The narrative captures the rebellious spirit of the era, with a humorous take on the clandestine activities surrounding the production of the illicit beverage.
Performance History
Over the years, “Mountain Dew” has been performed by numerous artists, cementing its place in the American folk canon. Notably, Grandpa Jones popularized the song with his spirited renditions, which brought the tune to a wider audience through radio and television appearances.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Mountain Dew” extends beyond its musical roots. The song has been featured in various media, contributing to its status as a cultural icon. Its influence can be seen in the way it continues to inspire new generations of musicians and audiences alike.
Legacy
Today, “Mountain Dew” endures as a beloved classic, emblematic of the rich tradition of American folk and bluegrass music. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to capture the spirit of a bygone era while remaining relevant to contemporary listeners.
Conclusion
“Mountain Dew” by Grandpa Jones is more than just a song; it’s a piece of American history wrapped in a catchy tune. I encourage you to dive deeper into this genre and explore the rich tapestry of stories and melodies that bluegrass music has to offer.
Video
Lyrics
There’s a big holler tree down the road here from me
Where you lay down a dollar or two
Well you go round the bend and when you come back again
There’s a jug full of good ole mountain dew
Oh they call it that ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll shut up my mug if you fill up my jug
With some good ole mountain dew
Now my uncle Nort, he’s sawed off and short
He measures about four foot two
But he thinks he’s a giant when you give him a pint
Of that good ole mountain dew
Well my ole aunt Jill bought some brand new perfume
It had such a sweet smellin’ pew
But to her surprise when she had it analyzed
It was nothin’ but good ole mountain dew
Well the preacher rolled by with his head heisted high
Said his wife had been down with the flu
And he thought that I ought just to sell him a quart
Of that good ole mountain dew
Well my brother Bill’s got a still on the hill
Where he runs of a gallon or two
Now the buzzards in the sky get so drunk, they can’t fly
From smellin’ the good ole mountain dew
Oh they call it that ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll shut up my mug if you fill up my jug
With some good ole mountain dew