Tony Joe White - Polk Salad Annie Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired Tony Joe White to write 'Polk Salad Annie'?

   Tony Joe White drew inspiration from his upbringing in Oak Grove, Louisiana. He wanted to write about something authentic and personal, reflecting his experiences growing up near the Mississippi River. Hearing 'Ode to Billie Joe' motivated him to write about the life he knew, like gathering wild polk salad.

2. What is polk salad mentioned in the song?

   Polk salad is made from the leaves of the pokeweed plant, which grows wild in the Southern United States. The leaves are boiled multiple times to remove toxins, making them safe to eat. This dish, often compared to turnip greens or spinach, was a staple for those with limited food options.

3. Was 'Polk Salad Annie' an immediate success?

   No, 'Polk Salad Annie' was not an immediate hit. Released in 1969 by Monument Records, it took nine months to gain popularity. Initial sales in Texas kept it alive until it was eventually picked up by a distributor in Los Angeles, leading to broader success.

4. How did Elvis Presley contribute to the song's popularity?

   Elvis Presley included 'Polk Salad Annie' in his live performances in the 1970s, which helped boost its popularity. His live recording of the song in February 1970 made it to the charts in the UK and Ireland, making it the only version of the song to do so.

5. Why did some people think 'polk salad' referred to marijuana?

   During the late '60s, many listeners speculated that 'polk salad' was slang for marijuana due to the song's popularity at hippie festivals. Tony Joe White often received marijuana from fans who misinterpreted the term, but he clarified that he was referring to the edible plant.