Fiddlin' Around
Chet Atkins Lyrics
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What you been doin'?
I'm just fiddlin' round
I played this guitar till my folks were sick of it
They won't never get well as long as you're pickin' it
It aint no fiddle but it sure makes more money
You'll live to a hundred though, fiddlin' 'round
The song "Fiddlin' Around" by Chet Atkins seems to describe a character named Johnny who is asked where he has been and what he has been doing. Johnny's response is that he has been "fiddlin' round." The lyrics go on to explain how Johnny has played the guitar until his family was sick of it and have played the harmonica so much that his mouth looks funny. Despite not actually playing the fiddle, Johnny seems content to continue "fiddlin' round" and suggests that it may be the secret to a long life.
In many ways, "Fiddlin' Around" seems to touch on the idea of pursuing one's passion regardless of the consequences. Despite Johnny's family being sick of his guitar playing and the fact that he may not be making much money with his harmonica, he continues to play and suggests that he will continue to do so for a long time. The song also touches on the idea of doing what you love regardless of whether it is considered "successful" or not.
Overall, "Fiddlin' Around" is an upbeat song that celebrates the joy of playing music and pursuing one's passion.
Line by Line Meaning
Where you been Johnny?
Questioning Johnny's recent whereabouts.
What you been doin'?
Asking Johnny about his recent activities.
I'm just fiddlin' round
Johnny is just passing time without any real direction or purpose.
I played this guitar till my folks were sick of it
Johnny has played the guitar so much that his family is fed up with hearing it.
They won't never get well as long as you're pickin' it
His family's ears won't recover as long as Johnny continues to play.
I played this old harp 'til my mouth looka funny
Johnny has played the harmonica so much that his mouth is sore.
It aint no fiddle but it sure makes more money
The harmonica may not be as popular as the fiddle, but Johnny can make more money playing it.
You'll live to a hundred though, fiddlin' 'round
Despite not having a clear purpose or direction, Johnny will likely live to be very old.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: JOHNNY GIMBLE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind