Chest Fever

Album: Music From Big Pink (1968)
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  • I know she's a tracker
    Any style that would back her
    They say she's a chooser
    But I just can't refuse her
    She was just there, but then she can't be here no more

    And as my mind unweaves
    I feel the freeze down in my knees
    But just before she leaves, she receives

    She's been down in the dunes
    And she's dealt with the goons
    Now she drinks from a bitter cup
    I'm trying to get her to give it up
    She was just here, I fear she can't be there no more

    And as my mind unweaves
    I feel the freeze down in my knees
    But just before she leaves, she receives

    It's long, long when she's gone
    I get weary holding on
    Now I'm coldly fading fast
    I don't think I'm gonna last very much longer

    "She's stoned," said the Swede
    And the moon calf agreed
    But I'm like a viper in shock
    With my eyes in the clock
    She was just there somewhere and here I am again

    And as my mind unweaves
    I feel the freeze down in my knees
    But just before she leaves, she receives Writer/s: Jaime Robbie Robertson
    Publisher: Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
    Lyrics licensed and provided by LyricFind

Comments: 13

  • Steeltoedgloves from South Of ChitcagoPersonal opinion: was introduced to this song in 1985. The Godz - I'll Get You Rockin' album.
    The song comes together with so much more drive. It is a top spot then Three Dogs version.
    I'm more into the growl & heavy beat stuff though.
  • Wilson from Raleigh, NcThe Live at the Academy of Music version of this song is the best.
  • Frank from Granchester Meadows, GreenlandThe Bands' Best in my opinion.
  • Leslie from San Diego, CaThree Dog Night also does an excellent job on this song. After reading comments on the other bands who cover this song I am anxious to hear them.
  • Leslie from San Diego, CaI have always believed this song to be about a prostitute. The lyrics are poetic and so much metaphor points to a "lady of the night." Yes, there is the aspect of heroin indicated in the opening line. The reference to "any scarlet" speaks of what is known in literature as a marginal character, meaning one who lives on the edge of societal norms yet is not necessarily a morally wrong person. Rather than going through the entire song, let me just cite some of the other metaphor that leads me to my deduction. The phrase "like a viper in shock, with my eye on the clock" is obviously referencing sex and time. "As my mind unweaves, I feel the freeze down in my knees" If you think about it, he is relaxing while being disrobed. I would like to hear any input in response to this. Thanks.
  • Didi from Denver, AlgeriaI think the reference to "hard drinking fast talking" woman was heroin don't you? Love widespread's cover! Looking forward to hearing the Lighthouse cover as well.
  • Roman from Barrie, Oncheck out the mini-rock-orchestra version by a group called Lighthouse out of Toronto recorded in the late 60 - 70's
  • Brooke from Birmingham, AlI've heard both WP & Tishamingo do this song live & I agree Tishamingo does a great job but WP tore it up in Birmingham last year!
  • David from Youngstown, OhAs he was prone to do with the support of the Band's management and record company, Robertson gets full songwriting credit on this one even though he didn't write it by himself. Helm and Manuel played big roles in writing the song. Robertson says the lyrics are meaningless. If that's the case, then Hudson should get writing credit for the song. His organ playing is brilliant on Chest Fever.
  • Dave from Nyc, NyAn EXCELLENT cover of this song is done by Tishamingo , a Southern rock band. Also Widespread Panic did a cover too. But I prefer the Tishamingo version.
  • Bill from St. Paul, MnHudon's organ intro is worth the price of admission by itself.
  • David from Youngstown, OhThree Dog Night did a good version of this on their 1969 debut and self-titled album.
  • Shannon from Atlanta, GaThe version of this from Rock of Ages is my favorite song from The Band. It's faster and has some awesome horns on it.
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