Project 365 Day #96
“Black Betty” from the album Ram Jam, released in 1977
This is one of those old folk songs whose origins are shrouded in mystery. This is most evident in the fact that no one really knows what Black Betty is. Could it be a bottle of booze? Could it be a whip? Could it be a penitentiary transfer wagon?
All possibilities hold equal weight.
But when Ram Jam took hold of it and made it their own, they added some intense guitar and 1970s vocals to make a quick banger that always finds a place on my playlists.
I must note that “Black Betty” has been covered by so many massively talented musicians that this was a tough choice. And there is a special place in my heart for all versions.
