About the song
The Weight by The Band is a quintessential piece of Americana rock, released in 1968 as part of their debut album, Music from Big Pink. This song, written by Robbie Robertson, is steeped in narrative and rich imagery, weaving a tale that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song’s narrative unfolds through vivid characters and symbolic encounters, depicting a traveler’s journey to Nazareth where he faces moral dilemmas and encounters various individuals burdened by their own troubles. Each verse introduces a new character, from “Crazy Chester” to “Miss Moses,” each representing a different aspect of humanity’s struggles and aspirations.
The Weight‘s enduring appeal lies not only in its storytelling prowess but also in its musicality. The Band’s unique blend of folk, rock, and country elements creates a sound that is both timeless and distinctly American. From the opening guitar riff to the soulful harmonies in the chorus, the song’s instrumentation complements its narrative depth, evoking a sense of place and emotion.
Socially, The Weight became a cultural touchstone, reflecting the tumultuous late 1960s era in America. Its themes of responsibility, community, and the search for meaning resonated with a generation grappling with social change and uncertainty. The song’s universal message of carrying burdens and finding redemption struck a chord with listeners then and continues to do so today.
In conclusion, The Weight stands as a masterpiece of storytelling in music. Its enduring popularity and cultural significance stem from its ability to blend intricate storytelling with memorable melodies and profound themes. Whether experienced as a reflection of its time or as a timeless narrative, The Band’s The Weight remains a testament to the power of music to capture the complexities of the human experience.
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Lyrics
I pulled into Nazareth, was feelin’ about half past dead
I just need some place where I can lay my head
“Hey, mister, can you tell me where a man might find a bed?”
He just grinned and shook my hand, “no” was all he saidTake a load off Fanny
Take a load for free
Take a load off Fanny
And (and, and) you put the load right on me
(You put the load right on me)I picked up my bag, I went lookin’ for a place to hide
When I saw Carmen and the Devil walkin’ side by side
I said, “Hey, Carmen, come on let’s go downtown.”
She said, “I gotta go but my friend can stick around.”Take a load off Fanny
Take a load for free
Take a load off Fanny
And (and, and) you put the load right on me
(You put the load right on me)Go down, Miss Moses, there’s nothin’ you can say
It’s just old Luke and Luke’s waitin’ on the Judgment Day
“Well, Luke, my friend, what about young Anna Lee?”
He said, “Do me a favor, son, won’t you stay and keep Anna Lee company?”Take a load off Fanny
Take a load for free
Take a load off Fanny
And (and, and) you put the load right on me
(You put the load right on me)Crazy Chester followed me and he caught me in the fog
He said, “I will fix your rack if you take Jack, my dog.”
I said, “Wait a minute, Chester, you know I’m a peaceful man.”
He said, “That’s OK, boy, won’t you feed him when you can?”Yeah, take a load off Fanny
Take a load for free
Take a load off Fanny
And (and, and) you put the load right on me
(You put the load right on me)Catch a cannon ball now to take me down the line
My bag is sinkin’ low and I do believe it’s time
To get back to Miss Fanny, you know she’s the only one
Who sent me here with her regards for everyoneTake a load off Fanny
Take a load for free
Take a load off Fanny
And (and, and) you put the load right on me
(You put the load right on me)