About the song
## A Frontier Legend: Fess Parker’s “Ballad of Davy Crockett” (1955)
Fess Parker’s rendition of “Ballad of Davy Crockett” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has resonated with generations. Released in 1955, this tune captured the hearts of Americans with its catchy melody and stirring lyrics that celebrated the life and exploits of the iconic frontiersman.
The song’s simple yet effective structure mirrors the straightforward narrative of Crockett’s life. Parker’s deep, resonant voice delivers the lyrics with a sense of authenticity, painting vivid pictures of the rugged wilderness and the challenges faced by those who ventured into its depths. The melody, with its memorable refrain, is both uplifting and nostalgic, evoking a sense of longing for a time when America was young and full of promise.
What makes “Ballad of Davy Crockett” so enduring is its ability to transcend the boundaries of time and place. The song’s themes of courage, determination, and the American spirit continue to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The lyrics, which recount Crockett’s adventures, are filled with historical references that add depth and context to the narrative.
Parker’s performance is a masterclass in storytelling. His delivery is both dramatic and intimate, drawing listeners into the world of Davy Crockett and his fellow frontiersmen. The song’s arrangement is simple but effective, featuring a combination of acoustic guitar and banjo that perfectly complements the folk-inspired melody.
“Ballad of Davy Crockett” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the power of music to inspire and entertain. It’s a reminder of a simpler time, when heroes were larger than life and the American dream was still within reach. Whether you’re a fan of folk music, American history, or simply looking for a catchy tune, this classic song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Born on a mountain top in Tennessee,
Greenest state in the land of the free
Raised in the woods so’s he knew ev’ry tree,
Kilt him a b’ar when he was only three
Davy, Davy Crockett, king of the wild frontier
In eighteen thirteen the Creeks uprose,
Addin’ redskin arrows to the country’s woes
Now, Injun fightin’ is somethin’ he knows,
So he shoulders his rifle an’ off he goes
Davy, Davy Crockett, the man who don’t know fear
Off through the woods he’s a marchin’ along,
Makin’ up yarns an’ a singin’ a song
Itchin’ fer fightin’ an’ rightin’ a wrong,
He’s ringy as a b’ar an’ twic’t as strong
Davy, Davy Crockett, the buckskin buccaneer
He fought single-handed through the Injun War,
Till the Creeks was whipped an’ peace was in store
An’ while he was handlin’ this risky chore,
Made hisself a legend for evermore
Davy, Davy Crockett, king of the wild frontier
He give his word an’ he give his hand,
That his Injun friends could keep their land
An’ the rest of his life he took the stand,
That justice was due every redskin band
Davy, Davy Crockett, holdin’ his promise dear
He went off to Congress an’ served a spell,
Fixin’ up the Govern’ments an’ laws as well
Took over Washin’ton so we heered tell,
An’ patched up the crack in the Liberty Bell
Davy, Davy Crockett, seein’ his duty clear
When he come home his politickin’ done,
The big western march had just begun
So he packed his gear an’ his trusty gun,
An’ lit out grinnin’ to follow the sun
Davy, Davy Crockett, leadin’ the pioneer
He heard of Houston an’ Austin an’ so,
To the Texas plains he jest had to go
Where freedom was fightin’ another foe,
An’ they needed him at the Alamo
Davy, Davy Crockett, the man who don’t know fear
His land is biggest an’ his land is best,
From grassy plains to the mountain crest
He’s ahead of us all meetin’ the test,
Followin’ his legend into the West
Davy, Davy Crockett, king of the wild frontier