“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine walking through the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where the air is thick with stories of the past. Among these tales, the legend of Marie Laveau stands out, captivating locals and visitors alike. Bobby Bare’s song “Marie Laveau” brings this legendary figure to life, blending humor and folklore in a way that only country music can.
About The Composition
- Title: Marie Laveau
- Composer: Shel Silverstein and Baxter Taylor
- Premiere Date: 1974
- Album/Opus/Collection: Bobby Bare Sings Lullabys, Legends and Lies
- Genre: Country
Background
“Marie Laveau” emerged from the creative partnership between Shel Silverstein, a renowned poet and songwriter, and Baxter Taylor. Silverstein’s knack for storytelling and Taylor’s musical expertise culminated in this song, which was featured on Bobby Bare’s 1974 album “Bobby Bare Sings Lullabys, Legends and Lies.” The song quickly rose to fame, becoming a number one hit on the Billboard country charts. It narrates the tale of Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, blending factual history with mythological elements to create a compelling and humorous narrative.
Musical Style
The song is quintessentially country, characterized by its straightforward melody, rhythmic guitar strumming, and Bare’s distinctive vocal delivery. The instrumentation is traditional, featuring acoustic and electric guitars, bass, and drums, with occasional harmonica accents. This simplicity allows the storytelling to take center stage, making the song accessible and engaging. The musical arrangement supports the narrative, enhancing the listener’s experience of the folklore being recounted.
Lyrics/Libretto
“Marie Laveau” uses playful and vivid lyrics to tell the story of the Voodoo Queen. Themes of magic, power, and retribution are central to the song, with Laveau depicted as a powerful and enigmatic figure. The lyrics are rich with Southern Gothic imagery, bringing to life the mysterious and supernatural aspects of Laveau’s legend. The song’s catchy chorus and humorous verses make it memorable, while also providing insight into the cultural lore of New Orleans.
Performance History
Since its debut, “Marie Laveau” has been a highlight of Bobby Bare’s performances. Its popularity has endured over the years, with audiences appreciating its storytelling and musicality. Notable performances have showcased Bare’s ability to connect with his listeners, bringing the legend of Marie Laveau to life on stage. The song’s success is a testament to its lasting appeal and its importance in Bobby Bare’s musical legacy.
Cultural Impact
The song “Marie Laveau” has played a significant role in popularizing the legend of the Voodoo Queen. By bringing her story to a wider audience, it has contributed to the mystique and allure of New Orleans folklore. The song has influenced other artists and cultural works, highlighting the ongoing fascination with supernatural and historical themes. Its impact extends beyond music, serving as a cultural touchstone for the legend of Marie Laveau.
Legacy
“Marie Laveau” remains a beloved song in the country music canon, celebrated for its storytelling, musical composition, and cultural significance. It continues to captivate listeners with its blend of humor and folklore, ensuring that the legend of Marie Laveau endures. The song’s legacy is a testament to the power of music to preserve and celebrate historical narratives, offering a timeless connection to the past.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Marie Laveau” is a masterful blend of music and storytelling that brings a legendary figure to life. Bobby Bare’s performance, combined with Silverstein and Taylor’s songwriting, creates an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend exploring this song and its various recordings to fully appreciate its charm and significance.
Video
Lyrics
The most famous of the voodoo queens that ever existed
Is Marie Laveau, down in Louisiana
There’s a lot of weird ungodly tales about Marie
She’s supposed to have a lot of magic potions, spells and curses
Down in Louisiana, where the black trees grow
Lives a voodoo lady named Marie Laveau
She got a black cat’s tooth and a Mojo bone
And anyone who wouldn’t leave her alone
She’d go… another man done gone
She lives in a swamp in a hollow log
With a one-eyed snake and a three-legged dog
Bent, bony body, and stringy hair
And if she ever seen y’all messin’ ’round there
She’d go… another man done gone
And then one night when the moon was black
Into the swamp come handsome Jack
A no good man like you all know
And he was lookin’ around for Marie Laveau
He said, “Marie Laveau, you lovely witch
Gimme a little charm that’ll make me rich
Gimme a million dollars and I tell you what I’ll do
This very night, I’m gonna marry you”
Then it’ll be (mm), another man done gone
So Marie done some magic, and she shook a little sand
Made a million dollars, and she put it in his hand
Then she giggled, and she wiggled, and she said, “Hey, hey
I’m gettin’ ready for my weddin’ day”
But old handsome Jack, he said, “Goodbye Marie
You’re too damned ugly for a rich man like me”
Then Marie started mumblin’, her fangs started gnashin’
Her body started tremblin’, and her eyes started flashin’
And she went… another man done gone
So if you ever get down where the black trees grow
And meet a voodoo lady named Marie Laveau
If she ever asks you to make her your wife
Man, you better stay with her for the rest of your life
Or it’ll be (ooh-wee) another man done gone