In 1969, Ray Benson and Lucky Oceans (Reuben Gosfield) co-founded Asleep at the Wheel in Paw Paw, West Virginia, and soon after they found themselves opening for Alice Cooper and Hot Tuna in Washington, DC.[1] A year later, they moved to East Oakland, California at the invitation of Commander Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen. After being mentioned in Rolling Stone magazine by Van Morrison, they landed a record deal with United Artists. In 1973, their debut album, Comin' Right At Ya was released by United Artists. At the request of Willie Nelson, they left Oakland for Austin in 1974.
Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel have been presented numerous awards throughout their career. Most recently, the 16th Annual Midsouth Regional Emmy Award for the making of "A Ride With Bob", recognition by Mayor Kirk Watson of Austin, Texas, and the Darrel K. Royal Music Patron Award by The Texas Heritage Songwriters' Association. In 2007, The Austin Chronicle recognized Asleep at the Wheel for Band of the Year, Best Country Band, and into their Hall of Fame. Benson was inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame in 2002, was given The Texas Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996, and recognized as an Outstanding Producer by the National Academy of Recording Arts in 1988. He has also been given numerous Citations of Achievement by Broadcast Music, Inc. for his work in the country music field. Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel have been one of the strongest names in Country Music for the last forty years.
Beaumont Rag
Asleep at the Wheel Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
One, two, three
The lyrics to "Beaumont Rag" are actually instrumental, as it is a traditional fiddle tune. However, there is meaning to the song beyond just the music. The song is named after Beaumont, Texas and is a classic example of Western Swing music, which blends together elements of country, jazz, and blues. The upbeat tempo and intricate fiddle playing create a feeling of joy and excitement that is reminiscent of the dance halls and honky tonks where this music was popular.
While there are no lyrics to interpret, the song still tells a story through its music. It paints a picture of a lively and vibrant community that comes together to dance and celebrate. The song has an infectious energy that makes it impossible not to tap your feet or even get up and dance. In this way, the song is a celebration of life and the simple joys that bring people together.
Line by Line Meaning
One, two
The song starts off with a count-off, indicating to the band when to begin playing.
One, two, three
The count-off continues and the band starts playing, marking the beginning of the song.
Oh, the Beaumont Rag
The song being played is the Beaumont Rag, a classic American folk and country tune.
Yeah, the Beaumont Rag
The singer is emphasizing that they are indeed playing the Beaumont Rag.
Well, I ain't got no fiddle
The singer is saying that they do not have a fiddle to play the melody of the song, which is typically played on a fiddle.
And I ain't got no bow
In addition to not having a fiddle, the singer also does not have a bow, which is used to play the fiddle's strings.
But I'll make out somehow
Despite not having the traditional instruments typically used to play the Beaumont Rag, the singer is confident that they can still play the song well.
When I'm feelin' blue
The singer may play the Beaumont Rag when they are feeling sad or down as a way to lift their mood.
When I'm feelin' sad
Similar to the previous line, the singer may play the song when they are feeling sad.
I can always count on
The singer can rely on the Beaumont Rag to help them feel better when they are feeling down.
The Beaumont Rag
The song itself is a source of comfort and joy for the singer.
One, two
The count-off is repeated to signify the start of a new section of the song.
One, two, three
The band starts playing again.
Writer(s): Ray Benson, Daniel Levin
Contributed by Violet F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Ben - Moderator
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Ben - Moderator
Sorry about that Eddie - we will resolve this very soon. In the meantime you should still be able to paste a search into the search box. I'll update you here.
Eddie
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