About the song
“Don’t Cuss the Fiddle” by Kris Kristofferson is an upbeat, witty song that offers a message about tolerance and respect for different styles of music, as well as a broader commentary on life and personal expression. Released in 1978 on his album Natural Act, a collaborative record with fellow country music legend Willie Nelson, this track showcases Kristofferson’s clever songwriting and his ability to inject humor and insight into his music. While the song may appear lighthearted on the surface, its underlying message is about appreciating artistic diversity and not being judgmental toward others’ preferences or ways of life.
The title, “Don’t Cuss the Fiddle,” serves as a metaphor for respecting different forms of creativity. In the song, Kristofferson tells a story about musicians who play different instruments (a fiddle and a guitar), each with their unique style. The lyrics emphasize the idea that one should not criticize or diminish another person’s way of expressing themselves, whether in music or in life. This notion is reinforced through the line, “Don’t cuss the fiddle and dance to the guitar,” highlighting the hypocrisy of enjoying one form of art while looking down on another.
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Musically, the song leans into traditional country rhythms, with a lively tempo and an infectious melody driven by acoustic guitar and, naturally, the fiddle. The song’s playful instrumentation mirrors its lighthearted message, making it an enjoyable and fun listening experience. Kristofferson’s vocals are delivered with a laid-back, conversational tone, reinforcing the casual and friendly nature of the song. The song’s collaboration with Willie Nelson also adds a level of camaraderie and mutual respect between the two iconic musicians, further emphasizing the theme of unity in diversity.
Lyrically, “Don’t Cuss the Fiddle” is filled with Kristofferson’s signature wit and wisdom. Beyond the musical metaphor, the song can be seen as a broader statement on accepting and embracing differences in people, be it their tastes, opinions, or lifestyles. Kristofferson, who often tackled heavy themes like love, loss, and social justice in his music, uses this song as a more lighthearted approach to convey the importance of empathy and open-mindedness. There’s a playful irony in the lyrics, as the song takes a stand against judgmental attitudes, yet does so in a way that feels fun and accessible to all.
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The song is also a reminder that in both music and life, there is room for many different voices and styles. It underscores the value of personal expression and the importance of not letting prejudice or narrow-mindedness dictate our judgments. The fiddle, in this case, is not just an instrument but a symbol of individuality and creativity. Kristofferson’s message is clear: appreciate the music, the people, and the world around you without criticism, as each contributes something valuable.
“Don’t Cuss the Fiddle” reflects the collaborative spirit of country music, where different artists and styles come together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a light yet meaningful reminder that life, like music, should be appreciated in all its variety. This song stands out as a fun, feel-good track in Kristofferson’s repertoire, offering a refreshing balance between humor and thoughtful commentary on the human condition.
Video
Lyrics
“Don’t Cuss The Fiddle”
While admittin’ that he sang some pretty songs (and he did)
I’d heard that he’d been scandalizing me
And, Lord, I knew that that was wrong (and I was)
Now I’m lookin’ at it over
Something cool and feelin’ fool enough to see
What I had called my brother on
Now he had every right to call on me
Don’t ever cuss that fiddle, boy
Unless you want that fiddle out of tune
That picker there in trouble, boy
Ain’t nothin’ but another side of you
If we ever get to heaven, boys
It ain’t because we ain’t done nothin’ wrong
We’re in this gig together
So let’s settle down and steal each other’s songs
I found a wounded brother
Drinkin’ bitterly away the afternoon
And soon enough he turned on me
Like he’d done every face in that saloon
Well, we cussed him to the ground
And said he couldn’t even steal a decent song
But soon as it was spoken
We was sad enough to wish that we were wrong
Don’t ever cuss that fiddle, boy
Unless you want that fiddle out of tune
That picker there in trouble, boy
Ain’t nothin’ but another side of you
If we ever get to heaven, boys
It ain’t because we ain’t done nothin’ wrong
We’re in this gig together
So let’s settle down and steal each other’s songs