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.
Disguise
Leo Kottke Lyrics
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'Cause it always made her shout
She said it's show time to you, baby
But that's a long way out
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
Now she's gone undercover
She said she wouldn't holler for help
'Cause she always got it wrong
She said she was drinking the wine
'Cause it always made her strong
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
She said she was doing the crime
'Cause the victim always whines
He's stupid and simple
But his money has a shine
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
The lyrics of Leo Kottke's song "Disguise" depict a woman who is running away from something or someone. The singer narrates her behavior and her mixed feelings towards her actions. She reveals that the woman she is talking about drinks wine because it makes her shout and strong, but also quietly admits that she is doing something wrong or possibly illegal.
Throughout the song, the woman seems to be in disguise or undercover, as the title suggests. She takes a different identity or tries to hide, as if she's always on the run. She also shows reluctance or rejection towards asking for help, even though she knows she might need it. The lyrics suggest that the woman is conflicted and unsure of herself.
The song, as a whole, seems to explore themes such as identity, deception, and vulnerability. It also establishes a tense and mysterious atmosphere that reflects the woman's situation. The lyrics leave ample space for interpretation and reflection, inviting the listener to wonder about the woman's backstory, motives, and ultimate fate.
Line by Line Meaning
She said she was drinking the wine
'Cause it always made her shout
The woman explained she drinks wine because it makes her more outgoing and talkative.
She said it's show time to you, baby
But that's a long way out
She tells someone it's not yet time for them to see her true personality.
Now she's undercover
Now you know she is really gone
Now she's gone undercover
Now you know she is really gone
The woman has disappeared and is now in hiding.
She said she wouldn't holler for help
'Cause she always got it wrong
She said she was drinking the wine
'Cause it always made her strong
The woman doesn't ask for help because she often makes mistakes but drinks wine to feel stronger.
She said she was doing the crime
'Cause the victim always whines
He's stupid and simple
But his money has a shine
She justifies committing a crime because the victim complains too much, thinks he's stupid and hopes to gain his money.
Contributed by Allison G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Charles peterson
There is an interview with John Fahey late in his career in which he is asked of his influence on Kottke, the interviewer implied that in the beginning, Kottke was only a new iteration of the style of Fahey and was a mere pretender. Fahey becomes animated and over joyed at remembering the young Kottke, " No, This was something new, believe me". Priceless. Fahey loved Kottke.
snarckysnarcky
i discovered kottke first but love them both. I read once where fahey said he'd written a new tune and that " I can't play it but kottke can!"
Charles peterson
John Fahey Interview mid 80's, at the 11:00 minute mark.
Doc Bailey
Charles peterson Love to see it. Got a link?
clovis2012
Soooooo good. Been trying to nail Leo's rhythm and can't seem to get it right. Thank you Doug for explaining how his syncopation works. Are the tabs still available?
Anthony Rayvon Wylder
Lovely Lesson. It is so interesting how Kottke's style can get absorbing to listen to with just a little up tempo. Thankyou Very Good
fredo gerald
Clues for the pianoforte as well.Also on snares but with hammer percussion and different sound bottom.Syncopating on notes, rhythm, volume etc.a hell of a job for the magic of sound.As the musical soul, brain and balance are individual can learn a lot but still have to find your own way to the achievable.
grandiosdream
Really nice... assuming for established guitar playing fans... dream of being able to play like that...
Randolph Terracino
Good video but..you need to slow it down for us older fingerpickers. As in 70 y/o. Leo is my guitar hero. Saw him in concert at the Opera House in Spokane, WA in 1974 or '75. Good example of my age, not sure what year it was! I bought the "Armadillo" (6&12 String) album in 1972 and learned to play "The Fisherman". But nothing compares to seeing & listening to him in person, especially from the 4th row back. This video made me subscribe to "Acoustic Guitar". Thank you.
Doug Young
I used both, mics with just a little bit of pickup blended in. The mics are just the built-in mics on a Zoom H4n. The Taylor has the ES system, and the Martin has a K&K mini.