Big Chief
Professor Longhair & The Meters Lyrics
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Heap fire water gonna make me shout
I'm goin' down an-a get my squaw
Me might buy a great big car
I'm gonna do ev'rything I could
Me Big Chief, I'm feeling good
Me Big Chief, I got um tribe
My Spyboy, he just went by
My Flagboy, he's full of fire
My whole tribe is havin' fun
We gonna dance 'til mornin' come
The song "Big Chief" by Professor Longhair is a lively and upbeat tune that is rooted in African American culture and the Mardi Gras celebration. The lyrics describe the singer, who identifies himself as the "Big Chief," as he gathers his tribe and sets out to enjoy the festivities. The opening lines describe the high energy of the singer, as he declares "Me got fire, can't put it out, heap fire water gonna make me shout." This is a reference to the traditional use of alcohol during Mardi Gras celebrations, which are known for their wild and uncontrolled behavior.
The second verse identifies the singer's companions, including his "squaw" or female partner, and his "Spyboy" and "Flagboy," who lead the way during the parade. The verse emphasizes the unity and sense of community that is a central feature of Mardi Gras celebrations. The chorus repeats the refrain, "Me Big Chief, I'm feeling good," underscoring the celebratory mood and capturing the exuberance of the moment.
Overall, the song celebrates the sense of pride and belonging that is at the heart of Mardi Gras celebrations. The singer identifies himself as the leader of his tribe, but he is also part of a larger community that comes together to celebrate their shared culture and traditions.
Line by Line Meaning
Me got fire, can't put it out
I am full of energy and passion that cannot be extinguished
Heap fire water gonna make me shout
Alcohol will only intensify my excitement and enthusiasm
I'm goin' down an-a get my squaw
I am going to retrieve my partner from wherever she may be
Me might buy a great big car
As a leader, I have the resources to acquire a large and impressive vehicle
I'm gonna do ev'rything I could
I will make use of all of my abilities and resources to achieve my goals
Me Big Chief, I'm feeling good
I am the leader of my people and I am in a state of happiness and satisfaction
Me Big Chief, I got um tribe
As the leader, I have a group of people who are loyal and devoted to me
Got my squaw right by my side
My partner is standing beside me, supporting me in my leadership role
My Spyboy, he just went by
My spy, responsible for gathering information and intelligence, has just passed by
My Flagboy, he's full of fire
My flag bearer, responsible for carrying and displaying our emblem, is passionate and enthusiastic
My whole tribe is havin' fun
Everyone in my group is enjoying themselves and celebrating our shared culture and identity
We gonna dance 'til mornin' come
We will continue to revel and dance together until the morning arrives
Lyrics © Regard Music, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Earl King
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind