Cherokee Fiddle

Michael Martin Murphey

About Cherokee Fiddle

"Cherokee Fiddle" is a song written by Michael Martin Murphey. Murphey's version of the song went to number 58 on the Hot Country Singles chart in 1977. Based on a talented Choctaw fiddle player named "Scooter" who would play solo (and drink) as the narrow gauge train pulled into the station in Silverton, Colorado. It was later recorded by American country music artist Johnny Lee. It was included on the soundtrack album for the 1980 motion picture Urban Cowboy. It was re-released in October 1982 as the first single from the album Sounds Like Love. The song reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Lee's rendition features backing vocals from Murphey and Rosemary Butler and fiddle by Charlie Daniels. 


Year:
1976
3:34
791 
#1

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Michael Martin Murphey

Michael Martin Murphey (born March 14, 1945) is an American singer-songwriter best known for writing and performing Western music, Country music, and Popular music. A multiple Grammy nominee, Murphey has six gold albums, including Cowboy Songs, the first album of cowboy music to achieve gold status since Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs by Marty Robbins in 1959. He has recorded the hit singles "Wildfire", "Carolina in the Pines", "What's Forever For", "A Long Line of Love", "What She Wants", and "Don't Count the Rainy Days". Murphey is also the author of New Mexico's state ballad, "The Land of Enchantment". Murphey has become a prominent musical voice for the Western horseman, rancher, and cowboy. more »

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10 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Cherokee Fiddle" was originally written and performed by country artist Michael Martin Murphey. This song was part of his seventh album, appropriately named, "Playing Favorites," which was released in 1979.
Cover Version
In 1982, Johnny Lee also covered "Cherokee Fiddle" for his album, "Sounds Like Love." His version was released as a single and became a hit.
Chart Performance
Johnny Lee's version of "Cherokee Fiddle" became popular and peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1982.
Storyline
The song "Cherokee Fiddle" tells a poignant tale of a Cherokee fiddler who makes his money by playing fiddle in a band that travels from town to town. It explores themes of loneliness, nostalgia, and musical passion.
Soundtrack Appearance
"Cherokee Fiddle" is also famous for its appearance in the 1980 film, "Urban Cowboy," where Johnny Lee played it. This helped the song gain more visibility and popularity.
Musical Style
The song is known for its emotive lyrics and unique blend of country and folk musical elements. It has often been appreciated for its strong narrative and skillful violin playing, reflecting its title.
Other Versions
Apart from Murphey and Lee, several other country musicians have covered "Cherokee Fiddle". These include Bob Willis & His Texas Playboys and Western Flyer.
Awards and Recognitions
Although "Cherokee Fiddle" did not win any major awards, it is often cited as one of the songs that defined the country music of the early 1980s.
Cultural Impact
Given its narrative about Native American culture and music, "Cherokee Fiddle" often comes up in discussions regarding the representation of Native Americans in popular music.
Legacy
Despite being over four decades old, "Cherokee Fiddle" continues to remain popular among fans of traditional country music and is often performed live by both Johnny Lee and Michael Martin Murphey in their concerts.

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