About the song
Let’s journey back to the vibrant era of 1960s rock ‘n’ roll with “Indian Reservation” by Paul Revere & the Raiders. This iconic song, released in 1971 as a single, captures the spirit of Native American pride and resilience with its infectious melody and powerful lyrics.
Written by John D. Loudermilk, “Indian Reservation” is a stirring anthem that tells the story of the injustices faced by Native Americans throughout history. Paul Revere & the Raiders’ energetic performance and Mark Lindsay’s soulful vocals breathe life into the song, making it a rallying cry for social justice and equality.
The song was a monumental success upon its release, reaching the number 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its popularity was further solidified by its chart-topping success in Canada and Australia, making it an international sensation.
“Indian Reservation” was included in Paul Revere & the Raiders’ album “Indian Reservation,” which also achieved commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album showcased the band’s versatility and creativity, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Decades later, “Indian Reservation” remains a beloved classic, cherished for its powerful message and timeless appeal. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Paul Revere & the Raiders’ impact on the music industry and their ability to inspire listeners with their music.
So, whether you’re reliving the glory days of the ’60s or discovering the magic of “Indian Reservation” for the first time, let Paul Revere & the Raiders’ iconic song transport you to a world of passion, protest, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
Video
Lyrics
They took the whole Cherokee nation
Put us on this reservation
Took away our ways of life
The tomahawk and the bow and knife
Took away our native tongue
And taught their English to our young
And all the beads we made by hand
Are nowadays made in Japan
Cherokee people
Cherokee tribe
So proud to live
So proud to die
They took the whole Indian nation
Locked us on this reservation
Though I wear a shirt and tie
I’m still part redman deep inside
Cherokee people
Cherokee tribe
So proud to live
So proud to die
But maybe someday when they learn
Cherokee nation will return, will return
Will return, will return, will return