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Indian Giver
by1910 Fruitgum Company
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An "Indian Giver" is someone who gives something away, then wants it back. It was a popular expression in schoolyards, but has since fallen out of favor and is rarely used by adults because of its negative connotations toward Native Americans.
The song was one of several by The 1910 Fruitgum Company that was based on a children's game or saying.
The 1910 Fruitgum Company were legitimate musicians and songwriters, but many of their songs were the product of their producers, Jeff Katz and Jerry Kasenetz. Studio musicians were brought in to play on this behind lead singer Mark Gutkowski. Floyd Marcus, who is the band's drummer, gives his thoughts on this song: "They kept Mark on the vocals by that point, because they figured he was the one that was going to be least likely to give resistance. And he didn't mind doing what he was doing. And 'Indian Giver' was another one of the writers that they brought in. It went with the whole game plan, as I like to say, because obviously they were using a lot of those themes: '1, 2, 3, Red Light,' 'Simon Says,' 'May I Take A Giant Step,' 'Indian Giver,' they were using a younger hook to keep the thing going." (Thanks to Floyd for speaking with us about this song. Read his full interview in the Songfacts songwriter interviews.)
The Ramones recorded this song, which appears on their 1988 album Ramones Mania. It was also recorded by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and Spencer Davis.
Bobby Bloom, Ritchie Cordell and Bo Gentry wrote this song. Bloom is known for his 1970 solo hit "Montego Bay."
Comments:
Jessica Simpson recently used the term in referring to a boat she gave her ex, Tony Romo. Obviously this met with much consternation from the Native American community when her statement went public.
- Martin, Los Angeles, CA
WOW!!! I didn't know Bobby Bloom co-wrote this song! It's one of my favorites.
- Farrah, Elon, NC