About The Song
“Cotton Eye Joe” is a dance and country song performed by the Swedish band Rednex. Released in 1994, the song is a modern take on a traditional American folk tune and became an international hit, known for its catchy beat and high-energy style.
Background and Release
- Artist: Rednex
- Album: Sex & Violins
- Release Date: August 12, 1994
- Label: Battery Records (a subsidiary of BMG)
Songwriters and Production
- Traditional folk song; arranged by Rednex members including Pat Reiniz (Patrick Edenberg)
- Produced by: Denniz Pop, Max Martin, Pat Reiniz
Musical Style and Themes
“Cotton Eye Joe” blends elements of Eurodance with traditional American folk music, creating a unique and infectious sound. The song features a fast-paced beat, electronic dance rhythms, banjo riffs, and fiddle melodies. The lyrics of “Cotton Eye Joe” center around the character Cotton Eye Joe, whose arrival in town has disrupted the local community, particularly in terms of romantic relationships.
Chart Performance
“Cotton Eye Joe” achieved widespread commercial success across various music charts:
- UK Singles Chart: Reached number one
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 25
- European Hot 100: Reached number one
Impact and Legacy
The song was a massive hit in the mid-1990s, known for its danceable beat and crossover appeal. It brought global attention to Rednex and remains a popular party anthem. “Cotton Eye Joe” is often associated with line dancing and is a staple at sporting events and dance clubs.
Music Video
The music video for “Cotton Eye Joe,” directed by Stefan Berg, features the band members dressed in exaggerated, stereotypical hillbilly outfits, performing in various lively and humorous scenarios. The video’s playful and whimsical style complements the song’s high-energy vibe.
Awards and Recognition
“Cotton Eye Joe” garnered several accolades, including:
- IFPI Platinum Europe Award: For selling over one million copies in Europe
- Swedish Grammy Awards: Nominated for Best Dance Track
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Cotton Eye Joe” continues to be a popular and enduring track, frequently played at parties, weddings, and sports events. Its unique fusion of Eurodance and country elements has made it a distinctive and memorable hit. The song’s lasting popularity ensures its place as a fun, energetic classic in both dance and country music genres.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
He came to town like a midwinter storm
He rode through the fields, so handsome and strong
His eyes was his tools and his smile was his gun
But all he had come for was having some fun
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
He brought disaster wherever he went
The hearts of the girls was to Hell, broken, sent
They all ran away so nobody would know
And left only men ’cause of Cotton-Eye Joe
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
If it hadn’t been for Cotton-Eye Joe
I’d been married long time ago
Where did you come from, where did you go?
Where did you come from, Cotton-Eye Joe?
