The Meaning Behind The Song: Cherokee Fiddle by Johnny Lee

Cherokee Fiddle holds a special place in my heart. I first heard this song on a road trip many years ago, and it has remained one of my all-time favorites ever since. This captivating tune has a beautiful story behind it that captivates the listener’s imagination.

The lyrics of Cherokee Fiddle tell the tale of a talented fiddler, who, whenever he would smell the smoke and cinders, would slick back his hair and open up his case to play his Cherokee fiddle. Johnny Lee’s soulful rendition allows us to feel the passion and energy of this mysterious musician.

The song takes us back to a time when train rides were a common mode of transportation. The fiddler would anxiously await the train’s arrival, ready to put on a good show for the passengers. The mention of the “orange blossom special” alludes to the famous train known for its fast and smooth ride, symbolizing the necessity of a good performance to make a living in the music industry.

However, the Cherokee fiddler’s true motivation lies in good whiskey. It is said that the whiskey never let him lose his place, acting almost as a guiding force in his musical journey. The combination of the fiddle, the whiskey, and the passion behind the music formed an unbreakable bond, fuelling his desire to perform.

Aside from the personal connection I feel towards this song, Cherokee Fiddle holds a historical significance as well. The mention of the miners and the devil’s dream reflects the camaraderie and understanding between the musician and his audience. The fiddler also ventures out to Oklahoma, suggesting his desire to reach new audiences and explore new territories.

However, time moves on, and with it, the music landscape changes. As the chorus suggests, Indians dressed as cowboys and cowboys adorned themselves with tribal symbols, blurring the lines between cultures. The pure authenticity of the music seemed to disappear as lawyers and those seeking profit took over, leaving behind the genuine passion and spirit that the fiddler represented.

Despite this change in the music industry, the final verse of the song reminds us that the soul of the Cherokee fiddle lives on. It serves as a call to all artists, encouraging them to continue playing their music, regardless of any trials they may face. Just as good whiskey never let the Cherokee fiddler lose his place, it serves as a metaphor for the unwavering connection between an artist and their craft.

Johnny Lee’s cover of Cherokee Fiddle brought new life to this already incredible song. His voice and interpretation captivate the listener and transport them back to a time when the music was pure and authentic. It’s no wonder that this version peaked at #10 on the Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart, as it struck a chord with many listeners.

As a music journalist, I believe it’s essential to appreciate the stories and emotions behind songs like Cherokee Fiddle. They give us a glimpse into the lives of the musicians and allow us to connect on a deeper level with their art. So, the next time you hear the whiff of smoke and cinders, slick back your hair, and open up your case, metaphorically speaking, and let the music flow. Because just like the good whiskey, it will never let you lose your place.

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