Big Boss Man
Johnny Winter Lyrics


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Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call
Well, you ain't so big, you're just tall, that's all

Got me working, boss man, working 'round the clock
I want me a drink of water, but you won't let Jimmy stop
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
Well, you ain't so big, you just tall, that's all

Well, I'm gonna get me a boss man, one gonna treat me right
Work hard in the day time, rest easy at night




Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
Well, you ain't so big, you're just tall, that's all

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Johnny Winter's song "Big Boss Man" tell the story of an individual who is being dominated and exploited by their boss. The first verse asks if the big boss man can hear when he is called, indicating a lack of communication between the two. The singer then goes on to explain that the boss may be tall but is not as big as they think they are. This could be an indication of how the boss views themselves and how they may be using their status to manipulate and control others.


In the second verse, the individual is working around the clock and is not even allowed to take a break for water. This is a sign of a demanding boss who doesn't care about the welfare of their employees. Once again, the singer questions whether the boss can hear them calling out. The final verse expresses a desire to find a boss who will treat them well and allow them to have a work-life balance.


The song could be seen as a criticism of the capitalist system and the way in which it allows individuals with power to exploit those without. The singer wants a fair and just boss who cares about their employees and does not use their status to control them.


Line by Line Meaning

Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call
I am trying to get your attention, but you are not responding


Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call
I am trying to communicate with you, but you are not listening


Well, you ain't so big, you're just tall, that's all
You may be physically tall and in a position of power, but you are not impressive to me


Got me working, boss man, working 'round the clock
I am laboring for you constantly, without any rest or breaks


I want me a drink of water, but you won't let Jimmy stop
I am thirsty, but you are denying me a basic need and preventing someone else from helping me


Well, I'm gonna get me a boss man, one gonna treat me right
I am going to seek out a better employer who will treat me with respect and fairness


Work hard in the day time, rest easy at night
My ideal boss will require me to be productive during working hours but also provide me with adequate rest and relaxation


Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
I am still trying to reach you and convey my message


Well, you ain't so big, you're just tall, that's all
No matter how authoritative or intimidating you may seem, you are nothing more than a tall human being in my eyes




Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: JAMES A WILLIAMSON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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