About the song
The Stanley Brothers’ rendition of “Mountain Dew” is a spirited anthem in the realm of traditional bluegrass music, capturing the essence of Appalachian culture with its lively tempo and spirited lyrics.
Originally composed by Bascom Lamar Lunsford, a folklorist and musician known for his contributions to preserving Appalachian music, “Mountain Dew” found its way into the hearts of bluegrass enthusiasts through the Stanley Brothers’ vibrant interpretation. The song was included on their iconic album “The Stanley Brothers and the Clinch Mountain Boys” released in 1959, showcasing their signature blend of tight harmonies and virtuosic instrumentation.
“Mountain Dew” resonates with listeners for its lively depiction of moonshining and the allure of homemade liquor, a theme deeply rooted in Appalachian folklore and culture. The Stanley Brothers’ rendition, featuring Ralph Stanley’s distinctive banjo playing and Carter Stanley’s compelling vocals, helped propel the song to prominence within the bluegrass community.
While “Mountain Dew” didn’t necessarily top mainstream charts, it achieved significant acclaim within bluegrass circles, solidifying its status as a classic in the genre. The Stanley Brothers’ version exemplifies their ability to infuse traditional songs with a modern vigor while staying true to their Appalachian roots.
Over the years, “Mountain Dew” has been covered by numerous artists, testament to its enduring popularity and influence. Its rollicking melody and storytelling lyrics continue to captivate audiences, showcasing the enduring appeal of the Stanley Brothers’ musical legacy.
In summary, “Mountain Dew” by the Stanley Brothers remains a cornerstone of traditional bluegrass music, celebrated for its lively instrumentation, evocative storytelling, and the enduring impact of its Appalachian heritage.
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Lyrics
Down the road here from me there’s an old holler tree
Where you lay down a dollar or two
Go on round the bend come back again
There’s a jug full of that good ole mountain dew
Oh they call it that good ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll hush up my mug if you’ll fill up my jug
With that good ole mountain dew
Now Mr. Roosevelt told ’em just how he felt
When he heard that the dry law ‘d gone through
If your liquors too red it’ll swell up your head
You better stick to that good ole mountain dew
Oh they call it that good ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll hush up my mug if you’ll fill up my jug
With that good ole mountain dew
The preacher rode by with his head hasted high
Said his wife had been down with the flu
He thought that I o’rt to sell him a quart
Of my good ole mountain dew
Oh they call it that good ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll hush up my mug if you’ll fill up my jug
With that good ole mountain dew
Well my uncle Snort he’s sawed off and short
He measures four feet two
But feels like a giant when you give him a pint
Of that good old mountain dew
Oh they call it that good ole mountain dew
And them that refuse it are few
I’ll hush up my mug if you’ll fill up my jug
With that good ole mountain dew