"King of the Bayou" is a song by Joe Strummer, the lead singer of The Clash. The song is packed with vivid imagery and references, making it open to interpretation. It seems to paint a picture of a vibrant and rebellious character named Cory who defies the expectations of youth and embraces a life full of adventure and risk-taking. The lyrics suggest that Cory is someone who will never die young, implying that she is fearless and resilient. The line "She'll be quite candid and say we were drunks who made her come" suggests that Cory is unapologetic about her choices and doesn't care about societal norms or judgment. The song also mentions running with Revolt and Plutonium in the canyons of Uranium, which could be metaphorical imagery for Cory's rebellious and wild lifestyle. The mention of roulette on Rampart Street and the King of the Bayou hints at a life of gambling and living on the edge. The lyrics then pose the question of when a beat, possibly referring to the rhythm or pulse of life, should get the blues. It suggests that losing a subway poker game or having the Zulu king on Main Street could bring about sadness or disappointment. This potentially symbolizes the ups and downs of life and the unpredictability of circumstances. The song further describes rushing through rush hour on an all-nighter and seeing the world in a different light, represented by the funny color of the sun from the donut store. It could imply that Cory and the narrator are experiencing something extraordinary and breaking away from the mundane, ordinary world. The lyrics also mention the monkey of the three wise bums, Mezzrow, and innocence. It alludes to the influence of jazz and the counterculture movement, with references to famous jazz musician Mezz Mezzrow. The song touches on the commercialization of music and the selling of tickets to the stadium, contrasting with the raw and authentic experiences of the underground scene. Overall, "King of the Bayou" seems to celebrate the spirit of rebellion, adventure, and the pursuit of freedom, while also reflecting on the changing music industry and the compromises made along the way. It's a song that invites listeners to ponder the meaning of life, individuality, and the pursuit of happiness in a world that often tries to constrain and conform.
