In the Jailhouse Now

Jimmie Rodgers

About In the Jailhouse Now

"In the Jailhouse Now" is an American novelty blues song originally found in vaudeville performances from the early 20th century, usually credited to Jimmie Rodgers. The song's first two verses trace the exploits of Ramblin' Bob, who cheats at cards and gets caught, while the final verse tells about taking a girl named Susie out on the town and winding up in jail together.


Year:
1991
3:18
259 
#2

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I had a friend named Ramblin' Bob
Who used to steal, gamble and rob
He thought he was the smartest guy in town
But I found out last Monday
That Bob got locked up Sunday
They've got him in the jailhouse way down town.

He's in the jailhouse now
He's in the jailhouse now
I told him once or twice
To quit playin' cards and shootin' dice
He's in the jailhouse now. 

He played a game called poker
He knuckled with Dan Yoakum
But shootin' dice was his greatest game
Now he's downtown in jail
Nobody to go his bail
The judge done said that he will pay the fine.

I went out last Tuesday
Met a girl named Susie
I told her I was the swellest man around
We started to spend my money
Then she started to call me honey
We took in every cabaret in town.

We're in the jailhouse now
We're in the jailhouse now
I told the judge right to his face
We didn't like to see this place
We're in the jailhouse now.

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Jimmie Rodgers

James Rogers or James Rodgers may refer to: more »

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Written by: JIMMIE RODGERS

Lyrics © Peermusic Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


20 facts about this song

Historical Significance
"In the Jailhouse Now" by Jimmie Rodgers is a significant song that was a part of the American country music history.
Song Content
The lyrics of the song describe the story of the protagonist 'Ramblin' Bob who used to cheat at cards and dice which eventually leads him to jail.
Dates of Release
The song was originally recorded by Rodgers on 15 February 1928 in Camden, New Jersey.
Chart Performance
"In the Jailhouse Now" was immensely popular and peaked at number 14 on the charts in 1928.
Cover Versions
Over the years, many artists have covered "In the Jailhouse Now," including Webb Pierce, who climbed to number 1 on the Billboard country charts in 1955 with his rendition.
Film Appearance
The song had a significant role in the 2000 film, "O Brother, Where Art Thou?". It was performed by "The Soggy Bottom Boys", a fictional band from the movie, and helped to renew interest in this classic number.
Legacy
Jimmie Rodgers, often referred to as the "father of country music," gave "In the Jailhouse Now" a timeless charm that continues to influence modern country, folk, and blues music.
Music Style
"In the Jailhouse Now" reflects Rodgers' signature style, incorporating a mix of yodeling, jazz, blues, and folk elements.
Jimmie Rodgers' Health
Despite suffering from tuberculosis, Rodgers was able to record and release "In the Jailhouse Now" and other hits before his untimely death in 1933.
Impact on Modern Music
Artists like Merle Haggard, Ernest Tubb, and Lefty Frizzell have cited "In the Jailhouse Now" as inspiration, demonstrating its continuing impact on the country and blues genres.
Label Classification - Genre
"In the Jailhouse Now" by Jimmie Rodgers is primarily classified as Country and Southern music. The track is often considered a pivotal piece in the evolution of country and blues music.
Historical Context
Jimmie Rodgers first recorded "In the Jailhouse Now" on February 15, 1928. The song has since been covered by numerous artists over decades, demonstrating its timeless appeal.
Label Classification - Duration
The original version of "In the Jailhouse Now" by Jimmie Rodgers is approximately 3 minutes and 21 seconds long.
Commercial Success
"In the Jailhouse Now" gained substantial commercial success, becoming one of Rodgers' most well-known songs. He recorded and released it with Victor Records, a major label at the time.
Structural Details
The song uses Rodgers' signature style of a rhythmic yodel known as "blue yodeling," which sets it apart from many other country songs.
Musical Influence
"In the Jailhouse Now" is known for its considerable influence on country music, setting a benchmark for future generations of country artists. The song’s appeal also transcends regional and national boundaries, having been covered by international artists.
Label Classification - Origin
Jimmie Rodgers, the artist who recorded "In the Jailhouse Now," was known as "The Father of Country Music." He was born in Meridian, Mississippi, a town that has recognized his influence with a museum and an annual festival.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by many artists, displaying its enduring popularity. Notable versions include those by country music heroes like Merle Haggard and Webb Pierce, whose version became a number one hit on the Billboard country chart.
Legacy
"In the Jailhouse Now" was included in the soundtrack of the film "O Brother, Where Art Thou?," further cementing its place in popular culture and musical history.
Recognition
In 2004, the song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry due to its "cultural, historic, or aesthetic importance."

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