About the song
“Battle of New Orleans” by Johnny Horton is an iconic country song that vividly brings to life a pivotal moment in American history. Released in 1959, the song was written by Jimmy Driftwood, a school principal and folk singer who had a passion for history. Driftwood initially penned the song as a way to engage his students in learning about the War of 1812, particularly the Battle of New Orleans. Johnny Horton, known for his energetic performances and historical ballads, transformed Driftwood’s creation into a chart-topping hit that resonated with audiences across the nation.
The song was included in Horton’s album “The Spectacular Johnny Horton,” a collection that highlights his storytelling prowess and musical versatility. “Battle of New Orleans” tells the story of General Andrew Jackson’s victory over the British forces in 1815, emphasizing the bravery and resourcefulness of the American troops. With its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, the song narrates the event in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
“Battle of New Orleans” achieved remarkable success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Singles chart. It stayed at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and won the Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording in 1960. The song’s popularity was not limited to the United States; it also enjoyed success internationally, reflecting its broad appeal.
Johnny Horton’s rendition of “Battle of New Orleans” is characterized by his spirited vocal delivery and the upbeat, marching rhythm that captures the essence of the historical battle. The song’s lively tempo and engaging narrative made it an instant classic, cementing Horton’s status as a significant figure in country music.
The success of “Battle of New Orleans” was instrumental in reviving interest in historical events through music. Horton’s ability to make history accessible and enjoyable through his songs contributed to a renewed appreciation for American heritage. His other historical hits, such as “Sink the Bismarck” and “Johnny Reb,” further showcased his talent for turning historical stories into compelling musical experiences.
For older audiences, “Battle of New Orleans” is a nostalgic reminder of Johnny Horton’s impact on the music scene of the late 1950s and early 1960s. For younger listeners, it offers a lively introduction to a key moment in American history, demonstrating how music can be both educational and entertaining.
In conclusion, “Battle of New Orleans” by Johnny Horton is a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners with its vibrant storytelling and infectious rhythm. It stands as a testament to Horton’s unique ability to bring history to life through his music, ensuring that the legacy of both the song and the historical event it depicts endures for generations to come.
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Lyrics
In 1814 we took a little trip
Along with Colonel Jackson down the mighty Mississip’
We took a little bacon and we took a little beans
And we caught the bloody British in the town of New Orleans
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
We looked down a river and we see’d the British come
And there must have been a hundred of ’em beatin’ on the drum
They stepped so high and they made their bugles ring
We stood behind our cotton bales and didn’t say a thing
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Old Hickory said, “We could take ’em by surprise
If we didn’t fire our muskets ’til we looked ’em in the eye”
We held our fire ’til we see’d their faces well
Then we opened up our squirrel guns and gave ’em
Well, we fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Yeah, they ran through the briers and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
We fired our cannon ’til the barrel melted down
So we grabbed an alligator and we fought another round
We filled his head with cannonballs ‘n’ powdered his behind
And when we touched the powder off, the gator lost his mind
We fired our guns and the British kept a-comin’
There wasn’t as many as there was a while ago
We fired once more and they began to runnin’
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Yeah, they ran through the briers and they ran through the brambles
And they ran through the bushes where a rabbit couldn’t go
They ran so fast that the hounds couldn’t catch ’em
On down the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico
Hut, two, three, four
Sound off, three, four
Hut, two, three, four
Sound off, three, four
Hut, two, three, four
Hut, two, three, four