The Band – The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down – 1969

About The Song

“The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” is a poignant and historically inspired song by The Band, released in 1969 on their self-titled second album. Here are five facts about this influential track:

1. Civil War Theme: The song is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and is narrated from the perspective of a Confederate soldier, Virgil Caine. It provides a unique and empathetic portrayal of the South’s perspective during the conflict, exploring the aftermath of the war and the struggles faced by the Southern states.
2. Robbie Robertson’s Composition: “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” was written by The Band’s guitarist Robbie Robertson. His intricate and evocative storytelling, combined with the band’s musical prowess, created a song that stands as a powerful historical narrative.
3. Levon Helm’s Vocals: The lead vocals are delivered by Levon Helm, the drummer and vocalist for The Band. Helm’s soulful and emotive singing contributes to the authenticity and emotional impact of the song, conveying a sense of loss and reflection.
4. Rich Musical Arrangement: The Band was known for its musical versatility and proficiency. “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” features a rich and layered arrangement, blending elements of rock, folk, and Americana. The use of instruments like the accordion and horns adds depth to the composition.
5. Critical Acclaim: The song received critical acclaim for its historical narrative, musical craftsmanship, and emotional resonance. It became one of The Band’s most celebrated and enduring tracks, earning a place in the canon of classic rock and Americana music. Over the years, it has been covered by various artists, further cementing its cultural significance.

Video

Lyrics

Virgil Kane is the name
And I served on the Danville train
‘Till Stoneman’s cavalry came
And tore up the tracks again

In the winter of ’65
We were hungry, just barely alive
By May the 10th, Richmond had fell
It’s a time I remember, oh so well

The night they drove old Dixie down
And the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down
And the people were singing
They went, “Na, na, la, na, na, la”

Back with my wife in Tennessee
When one day she called to me
“Virgil, quick, come see,
There goes Robert E. Lee!”

Now, I don’t mind chopping wood
And I don’t care if the money’s no good
You take what you need
And you leave the rest
But they should never
Have taken the very best

The night they drove old Dixie down
And the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down
And all the people were singing
They went, “Na, na, la, na, na, la”

Like my father before me
I will work the land
And like my brother above me
Who took a rebel stand

He was just 18, proud and brave
But a Yankee laid him in his grave
I swear by the mud below my feet
You can’t raise a Kane back up
When he’s in defeat

The night they drove old Dixie down
And the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down
And all the people were singing
They went, “Na, na, la, na, na, la”

The night they drove old Dixie down
And all the bells were ringing
The night they drove old Dixie down
And the people were singing
They went, “Na, na, la, na, na, la”