#1 for weeks of November 6, 13, 20, 27, and December 4th, 1961.
Jimmy Dean eh? I was all prepared to do a joke about how he has the same name as the breakfast sausage guy. Well, it turns out, they're one in the same! Although it's understandable as I'm not a regular country music listener and certainly am not familiar with Jimmy Dean's work. Needless to say, "Big Bad John" is certainly the most non-poppy sounding song from the genre that's been on this list so far, but how does it hold up?
"Big Bad John", co-written by Dean himself, tells a tall-tale-esque story of a larger than life man shrouded in mystery who successfully rescues a group of trapped miners, while being unable to save himself as the mine collapses. Musically, what stands out is the sound of what appears to be an anvil being struck by a hammer. This goes on throughout the song and helps to give the song the feeling of being trapped down in a cold cavernous mine. This particular ambiance is further amplified by the echo and reverb heavy vocals both by the backing singers and Jimmy Dean.
Speaking of Jimmy Dean, his vocal performance in "Big Bad John" is mostly in spoken word, although with a few exceptions. Due to his slight country accent, deep booming voice, and the fact that he chose to speak most of the lyrics as opposed to sing them, the song really sounds more like a tall tale folk-country tune as opposed to a common country song. I feel that had he sung the lyrics, the song would've probably have not held up as well.
Perhaps it's best that this song is more of a subtle tune which lacks pretension and bombasity. It is because of this laid back nature as well as its tall tale feel that I found it to be an interesting listen. It's certainly a different type of sound than what's on this list so far, and though the genre certainly has moved on from this style of country, I feel therein lies its charm.
Final Verdict - This song is more of a tolerable form of country for those who are adverse to the genre. It's something different, but I can certainly see its charm and maybe you will too.
Coming Up Next - "Please Mr. Postman" by The Marvelettes.
Until Next Time - I'm Big Bad Dr. Rock.
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