St. James Infirmary Blues
St. James Infirmary Blues

The White Stripes - St. James Infirmary Blues Lyrics

Jun 15, 1999
49
St. James Infirmary Blues Music Video

St. James Infirmary Blues Lyrics

Oh, Coco

Well, folks, I'm going down to St. James Infirmary
And seen my little baby there
She's stretched out on a long, white table
Well, she looks so good, so cold, so fair

Let her go, let her go, God bless her
Wherever she may be
You may search this whole wide world over
But you'll never find another sweetheart like me

Yeah

Take apart your bones and put 'em back together
Tell your momma that you're somebody new
Feel the breeze blowin'
Tell 'em all, "Look out, here he comes"

Now I can say whatever I feel like to you
Then give me six crap-shootin' pallbearers
Let a chorus girl sing me a song
Put a red-hot jazz band at the top

We raise Hallelujah, as we go along
Well
Well, folks, now that you have heard my story
Say, boy, hand me another shot of that rye

And if anyone else should ask you
Just tell 'em
I've got some of those St. James Infirmary blues

Writer(s): Irving Mills
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Kanjian Music, BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who originally composed 'St. James Infirmary Blues'?

    'St. James Infirmary Blues' is credited to Joe Primrose, a pseudonym for Irving Mills. Louis Armstrong popularized the song with his 1928 recording, although its origins trace back to traditional folk tunes.

  2. What is the musical style of The White Stripes' version of 'St. James Infirmary Blues'?

    The White Stripes' version of 'St. James Infirmary Blues' maintains the blues and jazz roots of the song. With a raw and garage rock-inspired sound, the band introduces a modern edge while preserving the melancholic and storytelling aspects of the traditional composition.

  3. How do The White Stripes' lyrics for 'St. James Infirmary Blues' differ from earlier versions?

    The White Stripes' version retains the core narrative of the speaker's lament for their deceased beloved. However, their lyrics incorporate unique imagery, such as references to personal transformation and a dynamic finale, making it distinct while honoring the song's traditional motifs.

  4. What themes are explored in 'St. James Infirmary Blues'?

    'St. James Infirmary Blues' explores themes of love, loss, mortality, and self-reflection. It delves into the juxtaposition of mourning a lost lover and contemplating one's own life and legacy, often with instructions for an extravagant funeral.

  5. Has 'St. James Infirmary Blues' been influential in music history?

    Yes, 'St. James Infirmary Blues' has been a significant influence across various genres, evolving from traditional folk roots to a wide range of interpretations by artists like Louis Armstrong, Bobby 'Blue' Bland, and The White Stripes. Its adaptability underscores its enduring impact on music.

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