
Title | Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver |
---|---|
Artist | Primus |
Writer/Composer | Tim “Herb” Alexander, Larry LaLonde & Les Claypool |
Album | Tales from the Punchbowl (1995) |
Release Date | May 23, 1995 |
Genre | Nineties Funk Rock, Experimental Rock, Progressive Rock |
At first glance, the title “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” might sound like a typical sexual innuendo, but this iconic song by Primus is actually about a woman who has a pet beaver. Yes, a beaver. A literal one.
Released in 1995 as part of their album “Tales from the Punchbowl,” Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver quickly became the best-selling single by Primus. The song achieved significant success and even earned a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance alongside Alice in Chains and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Now, let’s dive into the deeper meaning behind this quirky and unconventional track. The lyrics narrate a humorous story about a woman named Wynona, who takes great pride in her big brown beaver. She proudly showcases her unusual pet to all her friends, expecting them to appreciate its uniqueness.
However, trouble arises when the beaver attempts to leave her. Wynona devises a solution by trapping the beaver in a cage made of cyclone fence. This scene reflects the possessiveness and control some individuals may exhibit in their relationships, unwilling to let go even when their partner wants to break free.
The song takes an unexpected turn when another character, Lou, brings an old baboon into the picture. Lou asks Wynona to recognize the smell emanating from him, humorously suggesting that the baboon has a strong scent due to consuming seven layers of Taco Bell food. This nonsensical addition adds to the song’s offbeat and eccentric nature.
Following the introduction of Lou, the story shifts focus to Rex, a Texan from New Orleans who travels with carnival shows. Rex, portrayed as someone with questionable habits, gets wind of Wynona’s big brown beaver and decides to take a peek. However, the beaver is quicker and catches Rex off-guard, grabbing him by the kiwis (slang for testicles) and leaving him in pain and unable to urinate for a week and a half. This humorous twist highlights the unexpected consequences that can arise when one meddles with something they shouldn’t.
In the final verse, Wynona takes her pet beaver and elevates it in the air, expressing her love for it. She even contemplates the idea of having a pair of beavers, suggesting her desire for more of these unique creatures in her life. However, the beaver’s behavior takes a dark turn when it sleeps for seven days, causing concern among those around it. In an attempt to wake it up, the narrator tickles the beaver’s chin and gives it a pinch, only to have the beaver try to bite them. This unexpected aggression reflects the unpredictable nature of relationships and serves as a reminder that even the things we love can have their darker sides.
Personally, “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” holds a special place in my heart. Growing up listening to Primus, this song always stood out to me for its unique and unconventional subject matter. The band’s distinct blend of funk rock, experimental rock, and progressive rock creates such an eccentric and interesting sound.
Whenever I listen to this song, it never fails to make me smile and appreciate the oddities in life. It serves as a reminder to embrace the quirks and idiosyncrasies that make each of us unique. Primus has a knack for creating music that is both humorous and thought-provoking, and “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” exemplifies this perfectly.
In conclusion, “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” by Primus may have a seemingly absurd title, but its lyrics convey an amusing story about possessiveness, unexpected consequences, and the multifaceted nature of relationships. The song’s success and continued popularity are a testament to Primus’ ability to captivate audiences with their distinct musical style and unconventional subject matter. So, next time you find yourself singing along to this offbeat tune, take a moment to appreciate the deeper meaning behind the big brown beaver.
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