About the song
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane with Lynyrd Skynyrd’s soulful ballad, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew.” This timeless tune, steeped in nostalgia and Southern charm, invites listeners to reminisce about days gone by and pay homage to the music of the past.
Penned by the legendary Ronnie Van Zant and Allen Collins, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” first appeared on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s third studio album, “Second Helping,” released in 1974. The album itself enjoyed immense success, reaching the 12th position on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying the band’s status as pioneers of Southern rock.
With its melodic guitar licks and Van Zant’s emotive vocals, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” tells the story of a fictional blues musician and the impact he had on the narrator’s life. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and infectious rhythm evoke a sense of longing and admiration for a bygone era of music and camaraderie.
While “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s other hits, its significance lies in its ability to capture the essence of Southern culture and pay tribute to the blues legends who paved the way for rock and roll.
So, whether you’re a lifelong fan of Lynyrd Skynyrd or simply appreciate the rich tapestry of Southern rock, “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” is sure to strike a chord with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the enduring power of music to transcend time and connect us to our roots.
Video
Lyrics
Well I used to wake the morning, before the rooster crowed
Searching for soda bottles to get myself some dough
Brought ’em down to the corner, down to the country store
Cash ’em in and give my money to a man named Curtis Loew
Old Curt was a black man with white curly hair
When he had a fifth of wine he did not have a care
He used to own an old dobro used to play it across his knees
I’d give old Curt my money he’d play all day for me
Play me a song Curtis Loew, Curtis Loew
Well I got your drinking money tune up your dobro
People said he was useless, them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis Loew was the finest picker to ever play the blues
He looked to be sixty and maybe I was ten
Mama used to whoop me but I’d go see him again
I’d clap my hands stomp my feet, try to stay in time
He’d play me a song or two then take another drink of wine
Well play me a song Curtis Loew, Curtis Loew
Well I got your drinking money tune up your dobro
People said he was useless them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis Loew was the finest picker to ever play the blues
Yes sir
On the day old Curtis died nobody came to pray
Ol’ preacher said some words and they chunked him in the clay
Well he lived a lifetime playin’ the black man’s blues
And on the day he lost his life that’s all he had to lose
Play me a song Curtis Loew, hey Curtis Loew
I wish that you was here so everyone would know
People said you were useless them people all were fools
‘Cause Curtis you’re the finest picker to ever play the blues