“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Tillsonburg” is a folk song by the iconic Canadian musician Stompin’ Tom Connors. Released in 1971, it pays homage to the small town of Tillsonburg, Ontario, and its tobacco farming industry. Known for his storytelling prowess, Connors captures the essence of rural Canadian life through his music, and “Tillsonburg” is no exception. The song resonates with many for its authentic portrayal of the struggles and camaraderie experienced by tobacco pickers.
Stompin’ Tom Connors, celebrated for his contributions to Canadian music, uses “Tillsonburg” to highlight the cultural and economic significance of the town. Through his distinctive voice and narrative style, Connors brings to life the challenges faced by those who worked in the tobacco fields, making it a beloved piece in his repertoire.
About The Composition
- Title: Tillsonburg
- Composer: Stompin’ Tom Connors
- Premiere Date: 1971
- Album/Opus/Collection: Bud The Spud
- Genre: Country/Folk
Background
“Tillsonburg” captures the spirit of a small Ontario town known for its tobacco industry. During the mid-20th century, Tillsonburg was a hub for tobacco farming, drawing workers from various parts of Canada. Stompin’ Tom Connors, himself a former tobacco picker, wrote the song based on his personal experiences in the fields. His firsthand knowledge provides authenticity to the narrative, making it relatable to many who toiled in similar conditions.
The song serves as a testament to the hard labor and sense of community among workers. Connors’ lyrics reflect the physical demands and the camaraderie that developed among those who shared the tobacco-picking experience. This song is not just a tribute to Tillsonburg but also to the many rural communities whose livelihoods depended on agriculture.
Musical Style
“Tillsonburg” is characterized by its folk and country influences, marked by a simple yet catchy melody. The song features acoustic guitar strumming, harmonica accents, and Connors’ distinctive vocal delivery. The musical arrangement complements the storytelling aspect, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Tillsonburg” focus on the hardships and humor found in rural labor. Connors paints a vivid picture of the backbreaking work in the tobacco fields while infusing the narrative with a sense of pride and nostalgia. The lyrics resonate with those familiar with farming life, highlighting both the struggles and the bonds formed among workers.
Performance History
“Tillsonburg” has been performed by Stompin’ Tom Connors at numerous concerts across Canada, where it was often met with enthusiastic responses from audiences. Its popularity has seen it included in many of Connors’ live recordings and television appearances, solidifying its status as a staple of Canadian music.
Cultural Impact
The song has left a lasting impact on Canadian culture, often cited as an anthem for rural communities. Its depiction of the working-class experience resonates with many Canadians, and it has been featured in various media, including documentaries about Connors and Canadian music history.
Legacy
Today, “Tillsonburg” remains an important part of Canada’s musical landscape, celebrated for its authentic portrayal of rural life. It continues to be a favorite among fans of Stompin’ Tom Connors and is frequently played on Canadian radio stations, especially in regions with a rich agricultural history.
Conclusion
“Tillsonburg” by Stompin’ Tom Connors is more than just a song; it’s a piece of Canadian heritage. Its enduring appeal lies in its genuine storytelling and cultural relevance. For those interested in exploring Canadian folk music and the stories of its people, “Tillsonburg” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
While a way down in Southern Ontario
I never had a nickel or a dime to show
A fella beeped up in an automobile he said “Do you want to work in the tobacco fields of Tillsonburg?” (Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches when I hear that word
He said “I’ll only give you seven bucks a day” but if you’re any good you’ll get a raise in pay
Your bed’s all ready on the bunkhouse floor if it gets a little chilly you can close the door
Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x3) my back still aches when I hear that word
I’m feelin’ in the morning anything but fine
The farmer said “i’m going to teach you how to brane”
He said “You’ll have to dawn up a pair of oil skin pants” if you want to work in the tobacco plants of Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches when I hear that word
Well we landed in a field that was long and wide with one whole horse and five more guys
I asked him where to find the cigarette trees
When he said “Bend over” I was ready to leave
Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches when I hear that word
He said to pick just the bottom leaves
Don’t start crawlin’ on your hands and knees
Prime your load cause you’ll get no pay
For standin’ there pickin’ at your nose all day around Tillsonburg
(Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches when I hear that word
With a broken back from bendin’ over there
I was wet right through to the underwear
And it was stuck to my skin like glue
From the nicotine tar on the morning dew of
Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches when I hear that word
Now the nearest river was two miles from
The place where they was waitin’ for the boat to come
When I heard some talk of makin’ the kill
I was down the highway and over the hill from
Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x3)
My back still aches that word
Now there is one thing you can always bet
If I never smoke another cigarette
I might get taken in a lot of deals
But I won’t go workin’ the tobacco fields of
Tillsonburg (Tillsonburg x2)
My back still aches when I hear that word (x3)