Focusing primarily on instrumental composition and playing, Kottke also sings sporadically, in an unconventional yet expressive baritone described by himself as sounding like "geese farts on a muggy day".[1] In concert, Kottke intersperses humorous and often bizarre monologues with vocal and instrumental selections from throughout his career, played solo on 6- and 12-string guitars.
Busted Bicycle
Leo Kottke Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
As the title suggests, Leo Kottke’s “Busted Bicycle” is an instrumental song that tells a story without words. The opening measures set the stage for the journey that Kottke will take his listeners on, with an upbeat melody that mimics the sound of a bicyclist on a bumpy terrain. The song then takes the listener on a journey that is both peaceful and contemplative, with Kottke’s guitar work reflecting a sense of feeling grounded and rooted. The mood of the song changes at certain points, with a more melancholic sound that reminds the listener of the fragility of life.
The song is perhaps about the simple joy of riding a bike and the freedom it provides. Kottke’s guitar work suggests the feeling of wind in one’s hair and the sense of escape that riding a bike can provide. The changing moods of the song may also represent the ups and downs of life, with moments of tranquility and reflection giving way to moments of sadness and contemplation. Ultimately, however, the song is a testament to the beauty and simplicity of life, and the joy that can be found in even the most mundane of activities.
Contributed by Samantha Y. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Rod Franklin
Damn. This was my favorite acoustic guitar song during my high school days in the early 70s. And it's been about that long since I've heard it! Love it.
Jacob Fetzer
Leo is the Hendrix of acoustic guitar.
kevin courtney
People who say they know Jimmy Hendrix are lying, because if they did they would spell his name Jimi.
rob olsen
@Kevin Williams yea love jimmy too but he isn't in my top ten leo is in top 3
T.B Fisher
Its Not just a ordinary acoustic guitar its a low strung hard picked well played 12 string guitar
Madben 99
Kevin Williams - two different guitar players with different sounds and styles. When Jimi died at 27 he already had three albums that changed rock. Do you know what an E7#9 chord is? Jimi was the first to use it and it's use spread widely. Aka the Hendrix chord.
I've seen Leo Kottke many times, love his music and even went through two copies of the Armadillo album learning his songs. He truly is a great player and songwriter ( though I really wish he'd quit playing Pamela Brown and Louise), but comparing these two great guitarists is apples and oranges.
Do you know that Chet Atkins admired Jimi Hendrix?
Madben 99
Ben Klein what on earth are you talking about?
Tom Claeys
Love this song. My bro was a big fan of Kottke's. Even created a energetic 12 string slide instrumental called Mosquito In Heat. Kottke's feet will be smiling at that one. 😎
Rod Franklin
God, I love this! Was addicted to this tune in my high school years!
Toby Basich
Best album of all time..the energy..wow