The Gun Club was formed by Jeffrey Lee Pierce, former head of the Blondie fan club in Los Angeles. Joining him was Brian Tristan, who was later renamed Kid Congo Powers during his stint with The Cramps, Don Snowden, who was at the time a music critic for the Los Angeles Times, and Brad Dunning.
Being among the first bands to combine punk and blues, The Gun Club has had a lasting influence on many artists. The White Stripes have been known to cover "For the Love of Ivy" and "Jack on Fire", off the band's debut album, at live shows. Of The Gun Club's music in particular, the band's vocalist and guitarist Jack White has said, "'Sex Beat', 'She's Like Heroin To Me', and 'For The Love Of Ivy'...why are these songs not taught in schools?"
Watermelon Man
Gun Club Lyrics
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see the Watermelon Man ah' come
see the Watermelon Man ah' come
see the Watermelon Man ah' come
Haiyo! Haiyo yah!
See the man put on a smiley face
See the man put on a smiley face
See the man put on a smiley face
Haiyo! Haiyo yah!
He no dead, he no dead he dea' yah!
See the Watermelon Man ah' come
See the Watermelon Man ah' come
See the Watermelon Man ah' come
See the Watermelon Man ah' come
See the man put on a smiley face
See the man put on a smiley face
See the man put on a smiley face
See the man put on a smiley face
Haiyo! Haiyo yah!
He no dead, he no dead he dea' yah!
Haiyo! Haiyo yah!
The Gun Club's song "Watermelon Man" is a lively and rhythmic tune that talks about the coming of the titular character, who is described as a man who sells watermelons. The song begins with the chant "see the Watermelon Man ah' come" repeated several times, creating a feeling of anticipation and excitement. The phrase "Haiyo! Haiyo yah!" is also frequently used in the song, adding to the lively tone of the music and creating a sense of energy and celebration.
As the song progresses, the lyrics shift to focus on the Watermelon Man's demeanor. He is characterized as someone who puts on a "smiley face" and is always cheerful and upbeat, even when faced with challenges. The refrain "he no dead, he no dead he dea' yah!" further emphasizes this theme of resilience and positivity, suggesting that the Watermelon Man is someone who never gives up and always keeps going.
Overall, "Watermelon Man" is a song that celebrates the spirit of the Watermelon Man, who is more than just a mere vendor of fruit but is someone who embodies a certain joy and optimism that is infectious and inspiring.
Line by Line Meaning
See the Watermelon Man ah' come
Notice the Watermelon vendor approaching
See the man put on a smiley face
Notice the vendor's pretense of cheerfulness
He no dead, he no dead he dea' yah!
The vendor is still alive and well
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: JEFFREY PIERCE, WARD DOTSON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind