Dr. John

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Down the road come-a Junko Partner
Boy, he was loaded as can be
Boy, he was knocked down, knocked down loaded
You know he wobbled all over the street
Singing, "Six months ain't no sentence
Thought that one year ain't no time
They got boys up on the Ponderosa
Servin' nine to ninety-nine"
If I had, if I had, if I had a million dollars
Just-a one million to call my own
I would buy me the land around Parish Prison
And I would grow me a big mootie farm, alright

[Verse 2]
Down the road, down the road, down the road
Here he comes, Mr. Jones
Whoo, boy, you're on your back so hard
Got to say lordy-ho
If a penny make a nickel, a nickel make a dime
A dime will make you half and a half will make a dollar
Make you holler
Give me whisky when I get a little frisky
'Cause it's-a mighty good drink when you get a little dry
Give me tobacco when I get a little sickly
But give me heroin before I die
[Outro]
Down the road, down the road, down the road, down the road
Come-a Junko Partner, Partner, Partner, Partner
Boy, he was loaded as can be
But he was knocked, knocked, knocked, he was knocked out loaded
Don't you know he wobbled, yes, all over the streetEmbed

Are you ready to take a musical journey into the vibrant world of New Orleans? Strap yourself in and get ready to groove to the mesmerizing beats of "Junko Partner" by Dr. John. This iconic song, which dates back to the early 20th century, encapsulates the spirit of the city's music scene and showcases the unique genius of the legendary Dr. John himself. Let's dive into the details of this captivating composition.

About Junko Partner

Dr. John's rendition of "Junko Partner" is a timeless masterpiece that intertwines elements of jazz, blues, and funk. Originally a traditional New Orleans tune, this song takes its listeners on a soulful journey through the backstreets of the city, narrating a tale of love, betrayal, and the constant struggle between good and evil.

With his deep, gravelly vocals and impressive piano skills, Dr. John breathes new life into "Junko Partner," infusing it with his unique musical style. The song's rhythmic complexity and intricate arrangements showcase Dr. John's exceptional talent and his ability to seamlessly blend different genres into a cohesive and irresistibly catchy composition.

The origins of "Junko Partner" can be traced back to the early 20th century, when it first emerged as a popular tune in the streets of New Orleans. Over the years, it has been recorded by numerous artists, but it is Dr. John's version that stands out as a definitive interpretation. His deep understanding of the song's roots allows him to capture its essence and deliver a performance that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

One of the notable aspects of "Junko Partner" is its lyrical depth. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and emotional storytelling, paint a vivid picture of the characters and the world they inhabit. The protagonist, the titular Junko Partner, is a symbol of both temptation and redemption, representing the duality of human nature. Dr. John's nuanced delivery brings these characters to life, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

When it comes to the music itself, "Junko Partner" boasts a rich and dynamic instrumentation. The smooth piano lines, accompanied by groovy basslines and infectious drum patterns, create an irresistible rhythmic foundation that keeps the song flowing with energy and vitality. Dr. John's masterful piano playing is a true delight for the ears, as he effortlessly switches between melodic solos and tasteful accompaniment.

A highlight of "Junko Partner" lies in its captivating vocal harmonies and infectious hooks. As Dr. John croons about the trials and tribulations of the characters in the song, his expressive vocal delivery draws the listener in, ensuring an emotional connection from the very first note. The infectious chorus and carefully crafted melodies make it almost impossible to resist singing along, creating a sense of communal celebration among those lucky enough to experience this musical gem.

It is worth mentioning the role of jazz in shaping the sound of "Junko Partner." New Orleans, often referred to as the birthplace of jazz, permeates every aspect of this song. The improvisational nature of the genre can be felt in the instrumental solos and the playful interactions between the musicians. Dr. John's incorporation of jazz elements further enhances the song's authenticity and pays homage to the city that inspired its creation.

As we delve deeper into the soul-stirring world of "Junko Partner," it becomes clear that this song is not just a musical composition. It is an immersive experience that transports listeners to the heart of New Orleans, allowing them to witness the vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage that define the city's music scene. Dr. John's exceptional talent and deep connection to the roots of the song elevate "Junko Partner" from a mere recording to a work of art that stands the test of time.

So, whether you're a fan of jazz, blues, funk, or simply appreciate the power of music to tell a captivating story, "Junko Partner" is not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and infectious rhythms of this legendary Dr. John composition, and let it transport you to the enchanting streets of New Orleans.

• Release Date: April 20, 1972
• Artist: Dr. John