James McMurtry — Safe Side
Album: Candyland
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Your rating:
Total ratings: 995
Released: 1992
Length: 4:02
Plays (last 30 days): 0
Avg rating:
Your rating:
Total ratings: 995
Length: 4:02
Plays (last 30 days): 0
Down in Piedras Negras you gotta watch yourself
There's a whole lotta hungry people lookin to share some wealth
And when the oilfield's busted and the peso takes a dive
Stay off the side streets if you wanna come back alive
Yo no busca nada I'm just standin here
Mindin my own business, gonna get back outta here
Back to the safe side
Back to the safe side
And at the base of the barstool there's a drain in the floor
You better not go in there, if you don't know what that's for
It's no place to take your lady, she'll get the evil eye
Sizin up their prospects, sharpin up their knives
No me gusta nada, yo no queiro ver
Once I get across this river, never gonna go back there
Stayin on the safe side
Stayin on the safe side
Yo no fuma mota yo no quiero ver
Once I getacross this river, never gonna go back there
Up in San Antonio all the pretty people know
They better stay off of the west side where the black tar flows
They hide in their sheltered enclaves up around Olmos Park
They got their own policeman so they can stay out way past dark
Back down in Piedras Negras, the children play with dirt
We keep our pistols loaded so we don't get hurt
No importa a nadie, it's always been that way
Never gonna get no different, long as we got our say
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
No me gusta nada, it's always been that way
Never gonna get no different long as we got our way
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
There's a whole lotta hungry people lookin to share some wealth
And when the oilfield's busted and the peso takes a dive
Stay off the side streets if you wanna come back alive
Yo no busca nada I'm just standin here
Mindin my own business, gonna get back outta here
Back to the safe side
Back to the safe side
And at the base of the barstool there's a drain in the floor
You better not go in there, if you don't know what that's for
It's no place to take your lady, she'll get the evil eye
Sizin up their prospects, sharpin up their knives
No me gusta nada, yo no queiro ver
Once I get across this river, never gonna go back there
Stayin on the safe side
Stayin on the safe side
Yo no fuma mota yo no quiero ver
Once I getacross this river, never gonna go back there
Up in San Antonio all the pretty people know
They better stay off of the west side where the black tar flows
They hide in their sheltered enclaves up around Olmos Park
They got their own policeman so they can stay out way past dark
Back down in Piedras Negras, the children play with dirt
We keep our pistols loaded so we don't get hurt
No importa a nadie, it's always been that way
Never gonna get no different, long as we got our say
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
No me gusta nada, it's always been that way
Never gonna get no different long as we got our way
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
Stay on the safe side
Comments (180)add comment
7 -> 8 after really listening to the lyrics—they paint such a vivid picture!
I like it. I think this album and his debut were produced by John Mellencamp.
Love me some James McMurtry. I have seen him live 2 times in the same small venue, The Handlebar, in Greenville, SC that unfortunately closed. What a great songwriter and guitarist. He definitely got some talent from his parents. See him if you can. He always has a very tight band.
tfioreze wrote:
Maybe, but imo his songwriting excels.
His Spanish sucks!!!
Maybe, but imo his songwriting excels.
His Spanish sucks!!!
When I want Race In My Face I listen to Garland Jeffreys. He wasn't just a visitor. Surprised there's none of him in the rotation. There should be.
To no one in particular: perfect pitch and perky lyrics can be found anywhere. This is a real-time telling of a scene by an ARTIST. Please act accordingly. You don't have to like it, but please do respect the ART. That is all.
Does he believe he's the new Lou Reed? :)
wpost wrote:
I'm with you on that. I really dislike this song; I think it's because McMurtry sings flat.
"No me gusta nada, yo no quiero ver"... ni oír.
I'm with you on that. I really dislike this song; I think it's because McMurtry sings flat.
"No me gusta nada, yo no quiero ver"... ni oír.
xkolibuul wrote:
Yeah, except the song is so musically boring. Who cares about the irony if the song sucks?
Listen to enough McMurtry, and you will realize this song is dripping with irony. Brilliant artist.
Yeah, except the song is so musically boring. Who cares about the irony if the song sucks?
James McMurty is very talented and quite brilliant too. Don't let the superficial good ole boy persona fool you. Very underrated by the listeners here.
ladybinnath wrote:
James McMurtry is about as far as you can get from redneck in the Americana genre. Listen to the lyrics and tell me you can't detect the literacy he surely inherited from dad Larry (you might have heard of *him*), particularly when he switches perspective midway through the song (I'm sure you noticed this). McMurtry writes about heartland America from a particularly ambivalent POV. No songs about red plastic cups for him.
Me, I'm always thrilled to hear James here (or anywhere).
Who?
James McMurtry is about as far as you can get from redneck in the Americana genre. Listen to the lyrics and tell me you can't detect the literacy he surely inherited from dad Larry (you might have heard of *him*), particularly when he switches perspective midway through the song (I'm sure you noticed this). McMurtry writes about heartland America from a particularly ambivalent POV. No songs about red plastic cups for him.
Me, I'm always thrilled to hear James here (or anywhere).
Otomi wrote:
Creo que McMurtry estaba haciendo uso de su fino sentido de ironía en esta canción, como dijo aquí Xkolibuul hace unos tres años, mi estimado amigo.
Thank you!
Since I'm a gringo I had to use the googlator.
I think it's testament to Mr. McMurtry's talent that he raises such ire. I think he is basically an angry person, angry about the racists, the idiots, the cruel. But he keeps it under his hat for fear of ending up in jail. I haven't seen him perform, but many folks say he is, uh, less than friendly. I think he channels his anger into his music, which shows up in the strong reactions it provokes.
Creo que McMurtry estaba haciendo uso de su fino sentido de ironía en esta canción, como dijo aquí Xkolibuul hace unos tres años, mi estimado amigo.
Thank you!
Since I'm a gringo I had to use the googlator.
I think it's testament to Mr. McMurtry's talent that he raises such ire. I think he is basically an angry person, angry about the racists, the idiots, the cruel. But he keeps it under his hat for fear of ending up in jail. I haven't seen him perform, but many folks say he is, uh, less than friendly. I think he channels his anger into his music, which shows up in the strong reactions it provokes.
juanos wrote:
You don't know much about James McMurtry, do you?
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
You don't know much about James McMurtry, do you?
juanos wrote:
Creo que McMurtry estaba haciendo uso de su fino sentido de ironía en esta canción, como dijo aquí Xkolibuul hace unos tres años, mi estimado amigo.
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
Creo que McMurtry estaba haciendo uso de su fino sentido de ironía en esta canción, como dijo aquí Xkolibuul hace unos tres años, mi estimado amigo.
juanos wrote:
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
And today, May 12th, Bill followed with another Los Lobos song--Malaque. No redneck here, imo...if you think about it.what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
juanos wrote:
Guess you have never spent time in Texas. Too laid back to be haters of their southern neighbors. Besides, Texas practically is Mexico. RP will survive without your support.
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
Guess you have never spent time in Texas. Too laid back to be haters of their southern neighbors. Besides, Texas practically is Mexico. RP will survive without your support.
juanos wrote:
James McMurtry is about as far as you can get from redneck in the Americana genre. Listen to the lyrics and tell me you can't detect the literacy he surely inherited from dad Larry (you might have heard of *him*), particularly when he switches perspective midway through the song (I'm sure you noticed this). McMurtry writes about heartland America from a particularly ambivalent POV. No songs about red plastic cups for him.
Me, I'm always thrilled to hear James here (or anywhere).
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
James McMurtry is about as far as you can get from redneck in the Americana genre. Listen to the lyrics and tell me you can't detect the literacy he surely inherited from dad Larry (you might have heard of *him*), particularly when he switches perspective midway through the song (I'm sure you noticed this). McMurtry writes about heartland America from a particularly ambivalent POV. No songs about red plastic cups for him.
Me, I'm always thrilled to hear James here (or anywhere).
juanos wrote:
I think you should listen carefully to the lyrics. I don't think the border "rednecks" turn out all that well. Yes, the song is nuanced, but that's McMurtry's gift: making you think about the issue instead of jumping to a rash conclusion. Besides, if Bill were truly endorsing border jingoism, do you really think he'd follow this with Los Lobos' "Good Morning Aztlan?"
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
I think you should listen carefully to the lyrics. I don't think the border "rednecks" turn out all that well. Yes, the song is nuanced, but that's McMurtry's gift: making you think about the issue instead of jumping to a rash conclusion. Besides, if Bill were truly endorsing border jingoism, do you really think he'd follow this with Los Lobos' "Good Morning Aztlan?"
juanos wrote:
I suspect you have missed the point. Not everything should be taken as a literal prescription. Any familiarity with this singers' work should lead you to see that your interpretation is incorrect.
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
I suspect you have missed the point. Not everything should be taken as a literal prescription. Any familiarity with this singers' work should lead you to see that your interpretation is incorrect.
Redneck song! I know RP plays a few of songs I don't like, but this one has touched a nerve... I don't think I will donate, nor listen, again to RP with this kind of song on the playlist!!! my mexican pesos converted in dollars can probably go somewhere SAFER, where no redneck songs are played!
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
what's next? some Rush Limbaugh?
Going to see him in a couple weeks, hope this tune is part of the show.
The guitar work is really tasty.
I love this guy. Thanks, Bill, for introducing him to me. Keep 'em coming.
BrightonGuy wrote:
My sentiments exactly, lyrics aside.
Erm, did Lou Reed and David Byrne have a baby?
My sentiments exactly, lyrics aside.
cc_rider wrote:
Excellent. Well said. Please see my comments at the top of the stream
Yes, I am. Sorry I was not more direct.
As mentioned below, this song is really about the bigoted racists who actually believe those stereotypes. I've heard this song many times, and never considered it any other way.
Consider another of his more famous works, 'Choctaw Bingo'. Or 'Levelland'. He writes songs about the people he grew up around: bigoted, small-minded, intolerant racists. People who bled the land dry and ruined it. People who cook meth, go to cockfights, screw their cousins, shoot guns for fun (okay, he got me on that one). He writes songs about people he cannot STAND. This one is no different.
Mr. McMurtry has a regular Wednesday night gig at the Continental Club on South Congress. If he was actually racist he'd've been booted years ago.
As mentioned below, this song is really about the bigoted racists who actually believe those stereotypes. I've heard this song many times, and never considered it any other way.
Consider another of his more famous works, 'Choctaw Bingo'. Or 'Levelland'. He writes songs about the people he grew up around: bigoted, small-minded, intolerant racists. People who bled the land dry and ruined it. People who cook meth, go to cockfights, screw their cousins, shoot guns for fun (okay, he got me on that one). He writes songs about people he cannot STAND. This one is no different.
Mr. McMurtry has a regular Wednesday night gig at the Continental Club on South Congress. If he was actually racist he'd've been booted years ago.
Excellent. Well said. Please see my comments at the top of the stream
kayakingclark wrote:
twrl33: I do appreciate your sentiment.
Have you ever lived in a third world country or learned another language? I have and do and this song reminds me of some of them. Great tune. The only shocking ignorance is yours.
twrl33 wrote:
As a person born and raised in San Antonio, Texas (the city that the song is referring to). There is no racism in this song. Its stating the facts. Those who can afford it, wealthy Mexicans included buy their homes in the Dominion, Almos Park and Alamo Heights. Poverty "is what it is" regardless of the color of those in poverty. The song is much more about class and poverty than race. And as a Texan, let me assure you, Texans love our Mexican heritage and the people that come north to share our state. Do we devide up into those who have and have not...oh yes. Same as your community. I think James' "tone" and treatment of the subject is a pretty accurate reflection of the culture down here. But please dont take to be that the Texas culture is rasict, that is far form the truth...twrl33 wrote:
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
twrl33: I do appreciate your sentiment.
Erm, did Lou Reed and David Byrne have a baby?
Have you ever lived in a third world country or learned another language? I have and do and this song reminds me of some of them. Great tune. The only shocking ignorance is yours.
twrl33 wrote:
twrl33 wrote:
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
Ugh.
Would love to hear "We can't make it here anymore" by Mr. McMurtry
...even if the message is not the most uplifting, sometimes the truth hurts.
...even if the message is not the most uplifting, sometimes the truth hurts.
Sorry, Radio Paradise. You can't make me like James McMurtry.
Oh, he sounds so tough. Rubbish.
Come on Jimmy, put some feeling into it! Sounds like you're singing karaoke!
twrl33 wrote:
This song exposes cutting racism. It exposes the grit that the American dream is covered in. It hurts, because it's far too real. It isn't comedy, it's a look in the mirror of America.
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
This song exposes cutting racism. It exposes the grit that the American dream is covered in. It hurts, because it's far too real. It isn't comedy, it's a look in the mirror of America.
He brings out the PSD in me.
i sure don't see this as racist....... more of a grim reality actually.....now then, where's that bingo parlor?
James McMurtry has written some great lyrics.
twrl33 wrote:
And Bill does play other songs by him. Most are equally offensive to someone. See my other post(s) for details.
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In comedy and satire, not everybody gets the joke. Sorry you didn't.In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
And Bill does play other songs by him. Most are equally offensive to someone. See my other post(s) for details.
Byronape wrote:
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Yes, I am. Sorry I was not more direct.
As mentioned below, this song is really about the bigoted racists who actually believe those stereotypes. I've heard this song many times, and never considered it any other way.
Consider another of his more famous works, 'Choctaw Bingo'. Or 'Levelland'. He writes songs about the people he grew up around: bigoted, small-minded, intolerant racists. People who bled the land dry and ruined it. People who cook meth, go to cockfights, screw their cousins, shoot guns for fun (okay, he got me on that one). He writes songs about people he cannot STAND. This one is no different.
Mr. McMurtry has a regular Wednesday night gig at the Continental Club on South Congress. If he was actually racist he'd've been booted years ago.
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
As mentioned below, this song is really about the bigoted racists who actually believe those stereotypes. I've heard this song many times, and never considered it any other way.
Consider another of his more famous works, 'Choctaw Bingo'. Or 'Levelland'. He writes songs about the people he grew up around: bigoted, small-minded, intolerant racists. People who bled the land dry and ruined it. People who cook meth, go to cockfights, screw their cousins, shoot guns for fun (okay, he got me on that one). He writes songs about people he cannot STAND. This one is no different.
Mr. McMurtry has a regular Wednesday night gig at the Continental Club on South Congress. If he was actually racist he'd've been booted years ago.
impressive lyrics
I think that this guy can do no wrong..and as a lyricist he was one of the few where I listen intentally as he is such a good story teller.
twrl33 wrote:
The lyrics are describing the fear that one culture has of another and visa-versa. Each side is said to have a fear of the other propagating their own urban myths about the other and that they each deal with that fear in a similar way, by arming themselves or hiring private police if you are the side 'where black gold flows.' Most importantly not venturing out of one's own perceived "Safe Side" perpetuating the misinformation and lack of community. You can insist that things that frighten you should be banned, but that isn't going to help anyone's awareness of such problems or contribute to the dialogue of solving them. I would encourage you to concentrate on the real message of the song, but there is a problem.
I didn't say this in order to elevate this song to the status of a prayer wheel. McMurtry's somewhat passionless arrangement is more of a curse than a blessing, and if this platter is spun too often, fire and brim stone shall surely result. That's enough of a reason not to play it. It has its merits, does anyone know of a good cover version?
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
The lyrics are describing the fear that one culture has of another and visa-versa. Each side is said to have a fear of the other propagating their own urban myths about the other and that they each deal with that fear in a similar way, by arming themselves or hiring private police if you are the side 'where black gold flows.' Most importantly not venturing out of one's own perceived "Safe Side" perpetuating the misinformation and lack of community. You can insist that things that frighten you should be banned, but that isn't going to help anyone's awareness of such problems or contribute to the dialogue of solving them. I would encourage you to concentrate on the real message of the song, but there is a problem.
I didn't say this in order to elevate this song to the status of a prayer wheel. McMurtry's somewhat passionless arrangement is more of a curse than a blessing, and if this platter is spun too often, fire and brim stone shall surely result. That's enough of a reason not to play it. It has its merits, does anyone know of a good cover version?
Cutting to the chase, this song is shockingly racist. If it's irony in the context of the singers body of work, then play the whole body of work. I know of far too many people who like nothing better than to have these prejudices confirmed.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
In a time when the nation is struggling to resolve massive issues of immigration, drug wars, elections, there is nothing funny, clever or entertaining in the insensitivity displayed here.
I strongly urge Radio Paradise to stop playing this "song" or any other similarly questionable in taste or discouraging to "the better angels of our natures."
Satire is a form of comedy anyway, so if it's satire, let Comedy Pandora or whatever play this creep.
Byronape wrote:
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Yes, apparently cc_rider has never spent anytime along the border in Texas, New Mexico,
or Arizona.
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Yes, apparently cc_rider has never spent anytime along the border in Texas, New Mexico,
or Arizona.
Bobert_ParkCity wrote:
cc_rider wrote:
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Media loves to dump on Mexico - but for real this song could be about any number of places in the States - virtually any population area, really. Which is what I think he is getting at...
cc_rider wrote:
That's crazy talk.
Are you being sarcastic cc_rider? I hope so, otherwise you need to get out more.
Bobert_ParkCity wrote:
Media loves to dump on Mexico - but for real this song could be about any number of places in the States - virtually any population area, really. Which is what I think he is getting at...
That's crazy talk.meh. after the clash, this is very ho hum.
Media loves to dump on Mexico - but for real this song could be about any number of places in the States - virtually any population area, really. Which is what I think he is getting at...
Just read an article where McMurtry explains that this song is actually ridiculing the anglo (gringo) narrator singing the song. I was surprised at first that a Texan would say anything negative about Mexicans until I read that article. As a former Texan, I love Mexicans and would love to some day live in Mexico.
This is a great song.
OK, I guess I'd better stay away, 'cause I have no idea what that hole in the floor is for.
I saw James at the Austin airport not too long ago. He and that hat of his don't stray too far from one another, apparently.
Wasn't it James McMurtry who starred as the father in "My three sons?"
mauflex wrote:
Ahhh the beauty of music and its total subjectivity! I love this and Lou Reed!
His voice is very similar to Lou Reed...but his music...PUAH!
Just like he says...NO ME GUSTA NADA!
Just like he says...NO ME GUSTA NADA!
Ahhh the beauty of music and its total subjectivity! I love this and Lou Reed!
Rooney wrote:
I hope you'll get past the voice and actually LISTEN to the damned song (I promise, you won't be compelled to drive ice-picks into your ears. ) Google the lyrics. If all you want is ear-candy, listen to the Go-Go's. Sometimes I love to just listen to a song for the beat, or the melody, or the way it makes me feel when I'm driving or working, and that's cool, I think - as long as it's not the total focus.
It's been a long week today, and I'm really knackered (but I'm tanned and have muscles and my hair is a couple of shades lighter, so it all balances out, right?)
Gotta go - this song just seguéd into "Jessica" by the Allman Brothers. I hate to miss a good set...
Bleh. Even going through my folkie phase, it was bleh....his voice is highly annoying .
I hope you'll get past the voice and actually LISTEN to the damned song (I promise, you won't be compelled to drive ice-picks into your ears. ) Google the lyrics. If all you want is ear-candy, listen to the Go-Go's. Sometimes I love to just listen to a song for the beat, or the melody, or the way it makes me feel when I'm driving or working, and that's cool, I think - as long as it's not the total focus.
It's been a long week today, and I'm really knackered (but I'm tanned and have muscles and my hair is a couple of shades lighter, so it all balances out, right?)
Gotta go - this song just seguéd into "Jessica" by the Allman Brothers. I hate to miss a good set...
What a great Song! (TEN)
diddelit wrote:
I really love Radio Paradise - but I really don't understand why you insist on playing this song?? I don't know if this guy has made some good songs, but this just plains sucks. If your not able to sing in spanish without an accent, don't!
He is singing in Spanish with a TEXAS accent. That's how it sounds around here. I can understand how his voice might grate though. xkolibuul wrote:
Oh come on. Mr. McMurtry is the original feel-good singalong artist...
Listen to enough McMurtry, and you will realize this song is dripping with irony. Brilliant artist.
Oh come on. Mr. McMurtry is the original feel-good singalong artist...
Listen to enough McMurtry, and you will realize this song is dripping with irony. Brilliant artist.
Always thought this song was a great companion to J.J. Cale's "Tijuana".
Bleh. Even going through my folkie phase, it was bleh....his voice is highly annoying .
His voice is very similar to Lou Reed...but his music...PUAH!
Just like he says...NO ME GUSTA NADA!
Just like he says...NO ME GUSTA NADA!
Businessgypsy wrote:
Damn straight. I don't care how poor you are, and I don't care what awful things white people assume, there's no reason to prove them right.
Me. I can blame them. This is the same logic that says rape victims were "asking for it".
This guy is an amazing song writer, and a great chronicler of our times. Fair guitarist as well. Plenty of people in Texas (and not just in border towns) speak a little remedial Spanish without an accent as a matter of utility - or at least they did when I lived there. Also here in Florida. It's how you conduct everyday business at the grocery and hardware. Seems like the lyric is being sung in character.
This guy is an amazing song writer, and a great chronicler of our times. Fair guitarist as well. Plenty of people in Texas (and not just in border towns) speak a little remedial Spanish without an accent as a matter of utility - or at least they did when I lived there. Also here in Florida. It's how you conduct everyday business at the grocery and hardware. Seems like the lyric is being sung in character.
Damn straight. I don't care how poor you are, and I don't care what awful things white people assume, there's no reason to prove them right.
Businessgypsy wrote:
There's a clear distinction between "asking for it" (which no one does) and "carelessly putting oneself in a very dangerous situation". That certainly does not excuse the behavior of criminals, but if you poke a hornets' nest with a stick, don't expect tons of sympathy when you get stung.
Me. I can blame them. This is the same logic that says rape victims were "asking for it".
There's a clear distinction between "asking for it" (which no one does) and "carelessly putting oneself in a very dangerous situation". That certainly does not excuse the behavior of criminals, but if you poke a hornets' nest with a stick, don't expect tons of sympathy when you get stung.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I like McMurtry's music! It always seems to conjure images of high desert country, a long, straight stretch of two-lane highway, and a convertible land-yacht with bench seats and an A.M. radio.
As previous posters have mentioned, he sounds a bit like Lou Reed on this one. Fair tune.
Stop with this crap.
lawman wrote:
This guy is an amazing song writer, and a great chronicler of our times. Fair guitarist as well. Plenty of people in Texas (and not just in border towns) speak a little remedial Spanish without an accent as a matter of utility - or at least they did when I lived there. Also here in Florida. It's how you conduct everyday business at the grocery and hardware. Seems like the lyric is being sung in character.
Yep - that's what it's about. Who could blame them, when wealth beyond their dreams is constantly flaunted in their faces by our consumer-driven society? And by tourists "just passing through".
Me. I can blame them. This is the same logic that says rape victims were "asking for it". This guy is an amazing song writer, and a great chronicler of our times. Fair guitarist as well. Plenty of people in Texas (and not just in border towns) speak a little remedial Spanish without an accent as a matter of utility - or at least they did when I lived there. Also here in Florida. It's how you conduct everyday business at the grocery and hardware. Seems like the lyric is being sung in character.
I really love Radio Paradise - but I really don't understand why you insist on playing this song?? I don't know if this guy has made some good songs, but this just plains sucks. If your not able to sing in spanish without an accent, don't!
Well... I don´t really know what to say... This is just a really really bad song. And why, why!, the spanish??
The critics like him too, according to his web site; Stephen King cited McMurtry as “the truest, fiercest songwriter of his generation.”
Like this guy's voice. Kinda Zevon-esque.
Aye carumba! This just plain sucks. He may have succeeded in ruining his dad's books for me as well. 1.
paulmack wrote:
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
peeness iss soo harddd 2 sp ellll....doo wee shear hour sheep with others are weeeee tone deaf...are we just rear ended....well??/are we?...hmm! I wonder.....nice tune though................. oh!!! this is fer jlind.......by the way? How many Cds have You released since ur conception??...drool base alpha
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
peeness iss soo harddd 2 sp ellll....doo wee shear hour sheep with others are weeeee tone deaf...are we just rear ended....well??/are we?...hmm! I wonder.....nice tune though................. oh!!! this is fer jlind.......by the way? How many Cds have You released since ur conception??...drool base alpha
paulmack wrote:
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
jlind wrote:
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
I think I could go the rest of my life without hearing this song again, and it would be too soon.
Thanks for sharing - I feel so uplifted. Can I run my musical collection by you so that I know what to keep and what to throw away?
I think I could go the rest of my life without hearing this song again, and it would be too soon.
tonypf wrote:
My favorite in terms of lyrics is "Childish Things" — worth a listen.
Yes, I hear that. However, McMurtry's got his own kind of literate slant to writing that I like.
My favorite in terms of lyrics is "Childish Things" — worth a listen.
Agree with references to Lou Reed...on uppers, that is. ;) Not bad 6/10.
toterola wrote:
Yep - that's what it's about. Who could blame them, when wealth beyond their dreams is constantly flaunted in their faces by our consumer-driven society? And by tourists "just passing through".
What he talks about is just a fact of life in a border town. When you live around people that are desperately poor, some S.O.B. is gonna want what you have, and he will hurt/kill you to get it.
Yep - that's what it's about. Who could blame them, when wealth beyond their dreams is constantly flaunted in their faces by our consumer-driven society? And by tourists "just passing through".
You people need to relax. Listen to the music.
Who DOESN'T know this?
bitbanger wrote:
bitbanger wrote:
jjbix wrote:
a guy like him goes to mexico for prostitutes and cheap pharma . . .
How do you happen to know this?
drews wrote:
I, too, thought it was Lou... albeit an uplifted kind of Lou.
Is this guy inspired by Lou Reed, by any chance?
I, too, thought it was Lou... albeit an uplifted kind of Lou.
jjbix wrote:
a guy like him goes to mexico for prostitutes and cheap pharma . . .
How do you happen to know this?
Pyro wrote:
Que es "mota"? choose one, mexican prostitutes, cheap pharma , mary jane . .that's why this dull singer goes to mexico and then bashes it in his songs
Que es "mota"? choose one, mexican prostitutes, cheap pharma , mary jane . .that's why this dull singer goes to mexico and then bashes it in his songs
marcucho wrote:
Que es "mota"?
Did he said "yo no fumo mota"...haha i bet he does
Que es "mota"?
toterola wrote:
I'm hoping to see him tonight!
I really like listening to this old boy.
He and his band play a Hell of a live show, if you get the chance.
And as for James being "xenophobic": his politics are approximately the same as Steve Earle's, which is to say VERY Liberal. What he talks about is just a fact of life in a border town. When you live around people that are desparately poor, some S.O.B. is gonna want what you have, and he will hurt/kill you to get it.
He and his band play a Hell of a live show, if you get the chance.
And as for James being "xenophobic": his politics are approximately the same as Steve Earle's, which is to say VERY Liberal. What he talks about is just a fact of life in a border town. When you live around people that are desparately poor, some S.O.B. is gonna want what you have, and he will hurt/kill you to get it.
I'm hoping to see him tonight!
jjbix wrote:
You just described his entire music catalog.
the song is as boring as this guy's delivery . . . .
You just described his entire music catalog.
the song is as boring as this guy's delivery . . . .
a guy like him goes to mexico for prostitutes and cheap pharma . . .
a guy like him goes to mexico for prostitutes and cheap pharma . . .
I love his lyrics...his Dad Larry wrote the Brokeback screenplay, last Picture show, Lonesome Dove, Terms of Endearment....genius
xviti wrote:
yo no busco nada...
nacà en San Antonio
no me importa nadie.
no me gusta nada.
So many people in what's now the United States are comfortably bilingual. That's a GOOD thing! I love the mix of inglés y español in this song.
Well said.
toterola wrote:
I really like listening to this old boy.
He and his band play a Hell of a live show, if you get the chance.
And as for James being "xenophobic": his politics are approximately the same as Steve Earle's, which is to say VERY Liberal.
What he talks about is just a fact of life in a border town. When you live around people that are desparately poor, some S.O.B. is gonna want what you have, and he will hurt/kill you to get it.
yo no busco nada...
nacà en San Antonio
no me importa nadie.
no me gusta nada.
Is this guy inspired by Lou Reed, by any chance?
Did he said "yo no fumo mota"...haha i bet he does
I really like listening to this old boy.
He and his band play a Hell of a live show, if you get the chance.
And as for James being "xenophobic": his politics are approximately the same as Steve Earle's, which is to say VERY Liberal.
What he talks about is just a fact of life in a border town. When you live around people that are desparately poor, some S.O.B. is gonna want what you have, and he will hurt/kill you to get it.
Cynaera wrote:
As far as I'm concerned, James McMurtry eclipses his writer-brother by miles.
I don't know if James has a writer-brother, but he does have a writer-father named Larry.
He's a great writer, but a droning singer
steeler wrote:
Because of his vocal stylings, all of his songs sounds the same to me.
They do, don't they? I get tired of him real quick.
jjbix wrote:
don't like it, trying to be too cute with his crappy spanish
mexico bound in two weeks, myself. mazatlan. will probably come back. how's that fence comin' along?lol. hmmmm. is it to keep people in or out?
don't like it, trying to be too cute with his crappy spanish
Thistle wrote:
No, not at all offensive. Simply singing from a perspective. All good. Catchy too.
Excellent, tell it like it is!
Having grown up in far S. Texas I can remember everything he sings about in songs like this. Only he's downplaying some of the seedier aspects of P. Negras, Reynosa, and the Boy's Town's that every little city on the "other side" has.
jeff303 wrote:
Xenophobic or tongue-in-cheek... hmm...
you forgot "or Reality"
wookie wrote:
Lou Reed lite.
Yes, I hear that. However, McMurtry's got his own kind of literate slant to writing that I like.
Xenophobic or tongue-in-cheek... hmm...
biggeorge wrote:
Makes me want to pop the top on a cool tall one.
Makes me want to dance with a cool tall one
Lou Reed lite.
I've always loved this song... never really knew who did it....
No me gusta nada! ha!
mikedill wrote:
funny... i thought choctaw bingo was his only song!
you just prompted me to click on the "more by this artist link" and i had no idea how many songs of his were on this station.
Because of his vocal stylings, all of his songs sounds the same to me.
Is this the sweet sound of liberal indoctrination I hear or is 2008 just getting closer?
cool!
That one caught my ear too. Sort of had an Allman Brothers flavour to it.
Welly wrote:
Sounds like a southern David Byrne.
I was thinking maybe a Southern Bruce Cockburn myself.
Sounds like a southern David Byrne.