“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“The Battle of New Orleans” is a song famously performed by Johnny Horton in 1959. It became a significant hit, capturing the imagination of audiences with its catchy tune and historical narrative. The song vividly recounts the events of the Battle of New Orleans, a pivotal conflict during the War of 1812, and combines a lively musical arrangement with engaging storytelling. Horton’s rendition was not only a commercial success but also cemented his place in the annals of American music history.
The song’s popularity was enhanced by its unique fusion of country and folk elements, appealing to a wide audience and showcasing Horton’s distinctive vocal style. “The Battle of New Orleans” remains a notable example of how historical events can be transformed into compelling musical narratives, resonating with listeners across generations.
About The Composition
- Title: Battle Of New Orleans (1959)
- Composer: Jimmy Driftwood
- Premiere Date: 1959
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Spectacular Johnny Horton
- Genre: Country
Background
The song “The Battle of New Orleans” was written by Jimmy Driftwood, a school principal and history teacher who used music as a teaching tool. Driftwood’s original composition aimed to make history more engaging for his students. The song narrates the story of the Battle of New Orleans, fought between American and British forces on January 8, 1815, at the end of the War of 1812. Despite the war’s official end with the Treaty of Ghent, news had not yet reached the combatants, resulting in this decisive battle. Johnny Horton’s version of the song was recorded in 1959 and became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Horton’s rendition brought the historical event to life for a contemporary audience, blending factual storytelling with an infectious melody. The success of the song was partly due to its humorous and engaging lyrics, which highlighted the Americans’ strategic victory and the British retreat, creating a vivid and entertaining portrayal of historical events.
Musical Style
The musical style of “The Battle of New Orleans” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and country influences, incorporating elements of folk music. The song features a lively rhythm and a memorable melody, which are complemented by Horton’s energetic vocal delivery. The arrangement includes banjo, guitar, and drums, creating a sound that is both traditional and accessible to a wide audience. The use of call-and-response patterns and a narrative structure further enhance the song’s storytelling appeal.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “The Battle of New Orleans” focus on the American victory over British forces and are filled with vivid imagery and humor. They depict the chaotic and triumphant scenes of battle, with references to specific tactics and events that occurred during the conflict. The song’s playful tone and catchy chorus make it both educational and entertaining, effectively bringing a historical event to life through music.
Performance History
Johnny Horton’s version of “The Battle of New Orleans” was first performed in 1959 and quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the best-selling singles of that year. It was frequently performed on television and radio, contributing to its widespread recognition. The song’s success also led to numerous cover versions by other artists, further solidifying its place in American cultural history.
Cultural Impact
“The Battle of New Orleans” had a significant cultural impact, influencing both music and popular culture. Its success paved the way for other songs that blend historical narratives with contemporary musical styles. The song has appeared in various media, including films and television shows, often in contexts that highlight its historical and educational value. Its catchy tune and humorous lyrics have made it a lasting favorite among audiences of all ages.
Legacy
Today, “The Battle of New Orleans” is remembered as a classic American song that successfully combines historical storytelling with musical entertainment. It remains an important part of Johnny Horton’s legacy and continues to be celebrated for its innovative approach to songwriting. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to engage listeners and preserve historical narratives through music.
Conclusion
“The Battle of New Orleans” by Johnny Horton is a powerful example of how music can bring history to life. Its compelling narrative, infectious melody, and cultural significance make it a valuable piece of American musical heritage. I encourage you to explore this song further and discover the rich tapestry of stories and sounds that it offers.
Video
Lyrics
In 1814 we took a little trip
Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip’
We took a little bacon and we took a little beans
And we caught the bloody British in the town of New Orleans
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
We looked down a river and we see’d the British come
And there must have been a hundred of ’em beatin’ on the drum
They stepped so high and they made their bugles ring
We stood behind our cotton bales and didn’t say a thing
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Old Hickory said, “We could take ’em by surprise
If we didn’t fire our muskets ’til we looked ’em in the eye”
We held our fire ’til we see’d their faces well
Then we opened up our squirrel guns and gave ’em
Well, we fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Yeah, they ran through the briers and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
We fired our cannon ’til the barrel melted down
So we grabbed an alligator and we fought another round
We filled his head with cannonballs ‘n’ powdered his behind
And when we touched the powder off, the gator lost his mind
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Yeah, they ran through the briers and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Hut, two, three, four
Sound off, three, four
Hut, two, three, four
Sound off, three, four
Hut, two, three, four
Hut, two, three, four