Jim Croce – Bad Bad Leroy Brown

About the song

Introducing the rollicking hit “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” by the incomparable Jim Croce. Released in 1973 as part of his album “Life and Times,” this infectious tune quickly became a sensation, earning widespread acclaim for its catchy melody and witty storytelling.

Crafted by Jim Croce himself, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” tells the tale of a larger-than-life character from the South Side of Chicago. With its upbeat tempo and clever lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of Leroy Brown, a brash and swaggering figure who meets his match in a showdown of epic proportions.

Jim Croce’s distinctive blend of folk, rock, and blues influences shines through in “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer. His smooth vocals and playful delivery add to the song’s charm, making it a favorite among fans of all ages.

Upon its release, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” soared up the charts, reaching the number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success solidified Jim Croce’s status as one of the preeminent musical talents of his time, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition.

Beyond its chart-topping success, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” has left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless covers and adaptations. Its infectious energy and memorable chorus ensure its place as a timeless classic that continues to delight audiences around the world.

In summary, “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” stands as a shining example of Jim Croce’s unparalleled skill as a songwriter and performer. Its irresistible charm and enduring popularity make it a beloved favorite among music lovers everywhere, cementing its status as a true classic in the pantheon of rock and roll history.

Video

Lyrics

Woah!

Well, the South side of Chicago
Is the baddest part of town
And if you go down there
You better just beware
Of a man named Leroy Brown

Now Leroy more than trouble
You see he stand ’bout six foot four
All the downtown ladies call him “Treetop Lover”
All the men just call him “Sir”

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Now Leroy he’s a gambler
And he likes his fancy clothes
And he likes to wave his diamond rings
In front of everybody’s nose

He got a custom Continental
He got an Eldorado too
He got a 32 gun in his pocket for fun
He got a razor in his shoe

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
Meaner than a junkyard dog

Now Friday bout a week ago
Leroy shootin’ dice
And at the edge of the bar
Sat a girl named Doris
And ooh that girl looked nice

Well he cast his eyes upon her
And the trouble soon began
Cause Leroy Brown, he learned a lesson
‘Bout messin’ with the wife of a jealous man

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Well the two men took to fightin’
And when they pulled them from the floor
Leroy looked like a jigsaw puzzle
With a couple of pieces gone

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damn town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog
Yeah, badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog