Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I've got my pistols in my pockets boys
I'm, I'm Alabama bound
I've got my pistols in my pocket boys
I, I'm Alabama bound
Well, I'm not looking for no trouble
But nobody dogs me around

[Verse 2]
Now when I'm going to fetch my woman, people, Tri-Cities here I come
Oh and I'm going to fetch my woman, people, Tri-Cities here I come
'Cause she was raised up on that cornbread
I know that woman give me some
Give me some baby

[Verse 3]
Oh when the kid hits Alabama, people
Don't you try to dog him around
Now when the kid hits Alabama, people
Don't you try to dog him around
'Cause if you people cause me trouble, Lord
I've got to put you in the ground

[Harmonica solo]

[Verse 4]
Well, I was born in Mississippi
Baby, don't take any stuff from you
Oh I was born in Mississippi
And I don't take any stuff from you
And if I hit you on your head
Boy, its got to make it black and blue
[Verse 5]
Ah well I'm going to Alabama
Got my pistols out by my side
'Cause I ride to Alabama
With my pistols out by my side
'Cause down in Alabama
You can run, but you sure can't hide

When it comes to Southern rock, few bands are as iconic as Lynyrd Skynyrd. With their distinctive blend of country, blues, and rock, they have delivered countless hits that have stood the test of time. One such song is "Mississippi Kid," a track that showcases the raw talent and energy that the band was known for.

About Mississippi Kid

"Mississippi Kid" is a powerful and emotional song that captures the essence of Lynyrd Skynyrd's musical style. The track was featured on their third studio album, "Nuthin' Fancy," released in 1975. Written by Ronnie Van Zant, Ed King, and Bob Burns, the song tells the story of a protagonist who refers to himself as the "Mississippi Kid," despite having no direct connection to the state.

Interestingly, Ronnie Van Zant, the lead vocalist of Lynyrd Skynyrd, had no personal ties to Mississippi either. He grew up in Florida, but it was in Mississippi that tragedy struck when the band's plane crashed during a tour, leading to Van Zant's untimely death at the age of 29. It's eerie to think that Van Zant had previously shared his premonition of not living past thirty and dying on the road, a sentiment that would sadly become a reality.

Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Mississippi Kid" is a testament to the band's ability to create powerful and meaningful songs. With its catchy guitar riffs, bluesy undertones, and Van Zant's distinctive vocals, the track showcases the band's southern roots and their ability to captivate listeners with their unique sound.

The song opens with a memorable guitar intro that instantly grabs the listener's attention. It sets the tone for the rest of the track, which combines driving drums, powerful basslines, and soulful vocals to create a musical experience that is both captivating and emotionally charged.

Lyrically, "Mississippi Kid" delves into themes of identity and self-reflection. The protagonist, who refers to himself as the Mississippi Kid, offers an intriguing contradiction between his geographical roots and his personal sense of belonging. It's a reflection of the complexities of individual identity, where one's self-perception may differ from their external circumstances.

The song's chorus is particularly powerful, with Van Zant's vocals soaring over the instrumentation as he repeats the line, "Mississippi Kid, Mississippi Kid." This repeated phrase serves as a rallying cry, an anthem for those who feel a connection to a place despite not having a direct tie to it. It's a testament to the universal longing for a sense of belonging and the power of music to unite people through shared experiences.

"Mississippi Kid" is a standout track on the "Nuthin' Fancy" album, showcasing Lynyrd Skynyrd's ability to craft compelling songs that resonate with listeners. The band's unique blend of southern rock, blues, and country influences shines through in this song, creating a sonic experience that is both gritty and heartfelt.

As with many of Lynyrd Skynyrd's songs, "Mississippi Kid" is best enjoyed live. The band's energetic stage presence and their ability to connect with their audience elevate the song to new heights. It's a track that demands to be heard in a live setting, where the raw emotion and power behind the music can truly be felt.

In summation, "Mississippi Kid" is a testament to Lynyrd Skynyrd's musical prowess and their ability to create songs that resonate with listeners. The track's captivating guitar riffs, passionate vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics combine to deliver a Southern rock anthem that stands the test of time. Whether you have personal ties to Mississippi or not, this song is sure to strike a chord and leave a lasting impression.

• Release Date: August 13, 1973
• Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd