About The Song
ABBA, the Swedish pop sensation that took the world by storm in the 1970s, has a vast discography filled with catchy tunes and memorable lyrics. One of their lesser-known gems is the “Medley Pick a Bale of Cotton”. While this medley might not be as instantly recognizable as their chart-topping hits like “Dancing Queen” or “Mamma Mia!”, it offers a delightful and nostalgic journey through American folk music.
For those unfamiliar with the term “medley”, it’s essentially a musical potpourri, where different songs are seamlessly woven together to create a new, unified piece. In this case, ABBA has taken several traditional American folk songs, most notably the well-known work song “Pick a Bale of Cotton”, and given them their signature pop treatment. The result is a cheerful and upbeat medley that pays homage to the rich musical heritage of the United States.
What makes ABBA’s rendition of “Pick a Bale of Cotton” so special? First and foremost, it’s the group’s ability to capture the essence of these old folk songs while still making them sound fresh and contemporary. The harmonies are lush, the melodies are infectious, and the overall production is polished, yet it retains a raw, authentic feel.
Moreover, the lyrics of “Pick a Bale of Cotton” and the other songs included in the medley offer a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. They tell stories of hard work, resilience, and the human spirit. While the subject matter may be serious, ABBA’s musical interpretation is lighthearted and uplifting, making it a truly enjoyable listening experience.
It’s important to note that ABBA’s decision to cover traditional American folk songs was not without its controversy. Some critics argued that the group was appropriating a culture that was not their own. However, many others have praised ABBA’s rendition as a loving tribute to a musical genre that deserves to be preserved and celebrated.
“Medley Pick a Bale of Cotton” is a testament to ABBA’s versatility as musicians. They could effortlessly transition from writing catchy pop songs to paying homage to the roots of American music. This medley is a hidden gem in ABBA’s discography, and it’s well worth exploring for fans of both pop music and traditional folk. Whether you’re a die-hard ABBA fan or simply someone who appreciates good music, you’re sure to enjoy this delightful and nostalgic journey.
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Lyric
Gonna jump down, spin around, pick a bale of cotton
Gonna jump down, spin around, pick a bale a day
Gonna jump down, spin around, pick a bale of cotton
Gonna jump down, spin around, pick a bale a day[Chorus: Agnetha & Frida, Bjorn]
Oh Lordy, pick a bale of cotton
Oh Lordy, pick a bale a day
Oh Lordy, pick a bale of cotton
Oh Lordy, pick a bale a day[Verse 2: Agnetha & Frida, Bjorn]
I said me and my buddy gonna pick a bale of cotton
Now me and my buddy gonna pick a bale a day
I said me and my buddy gonna pick a bale of cotton
Now me and my buddy gonna pick a bale a day[Chorus: Agnetha & Frida, Bjorn]
Oh Lordy, pick a bale of cotton
Oh Lordy, pick a  bale of cottonOh Lordy, pick a bale a daybale a day
Oh Lordy, pick aOn Top of Old Smoky[Verse: Frida]
On top of Old Smokey, all covered with snow
I lost my true lover by courting so slow
For courting’s a pleasure and parting is grief
And a false-hearted lover is worse than a thief
On top of Old Smokey, all covered with snow
I lost my true lover by courting so slowMidnight Special
[Verse 1: Agnetha]
Well, you wake up in the morning
Hear the ding-dong ring
You go marching to the table
See the same old thing
See the fork on the table
Nothing in your pan
If you say a thing about it
You’re in trouble with the man[Chorus: Agnetha & Frida]
Let the midnight special
Shine a light on me
Let the midnight special
Shine its ever-loving light on me[Verse 2: Frida]
If you ever go to Houston
Well, you’d better act right
And you’d better not gamble
And you’d better not fight
For the sheriff will arrest you
And he’ll take you down
And before you understand it
You are prison bound[Chorus: Agnetha & Frida]
Let the midnight special
Shine a light on me
Let the midnight special
Shine its ever-loving light on me, on me, on me
Let the midnight special
Shine a light on me
Let the midnight special
Shine its ever-loving light on me, on me, on me
Let the midnight special
Shine a light on me
Let the midnight special
Shine its ever-loving light on me, on me, on me
Let the midnight special
Shine a light on me
Let the midnight special
Shine its ever-loving light on me