About the song
Today, let me take you on a journey down memory lane, to a time when country music was rich with storytelling and twangy melodies. One such gem from the past is “Amos Moses” by the legendary Jerry Reed. Released in 1970, this song swiftly carved its path into the hearts of listeners with its infectious rhythm and vivid narrative.
Jerry Reed, a multifaceted musician known for his prowess in guitar playing, songwriting, and acting, penned this timeless piece. “Amos Moses” found its home in Reed’s album titled “Georgia Sunshine,” adding another bright ray to his already illustrious career.
The song narrates the adventurous tale of Amos Moses, a Louisiana boy with a knack for hunting alligators. Reed’s storytelling prowess shines through as he paints a colorful picture of Amos, from his humble beginnings in the bayou to his legendary encounters with gators. The song’s catchy chorus and lively instrumentation make it impossible not to tap your feet along to its beat.
In its heyday, “Amos Moses” climbed the country music charts, reaching respectable positions that reflected its popularity and widespread appeal. Its success solidified Jerry Reed’s status as a prominent figure in the country music scene of the 1970s.
Decades may have passed since its release, but “Amos Moses” remains a cherished classic, evoking nostalgia and a sense of timeless charm. So, sit back, relax, and let Jerry Reed’s “Amos Moses” take you on a journey to the heart of the Louisiana bayou.
Video
Lyrics
Yeah, here comes Amos
Now Amos Moses was a Cajun
He lived by himself in the swamp
He hunted alligator for a living
He’d just knock them in the head with a stump
The Louisiana law gonna get you, Amos
It ain’t legal hunting alligator down in the swamp, boy
Now everyone blamed his old man
For making him mean as a snake
When Amos Moses was a boy
His daddy would use him for alligator bait
Tie a rope around his base and throw him in the swamp (hahaha)
Alligator bait in the Louisiana bayou
About forty-five minutes southeast of Thibodaux, Louisiana
Lived a man called Doc Millsap and his pretty wife Hannah
Well, they raised up a son that could eat up his weight in groceries
Named him after a man of the cloth
Called him Amos Moses, yeah (haha)
Now the folks from down south Louisiana
Said Amos was a hell of a man
He could trap the biggest, the meanest alligator
And he’d just use one hand
That’s all he got left ’cause an alligator bit it (hahaha)
Left arm gone clear up to the elbow
Well the sheriff caught wind that Amos
Was in the swamp trapping alligator skin
So he snuck in the swamp to gon’ and get the boy
But he never come out again
Well, I wonder where the Louisiana sheriff went to
Well, you can sure get lost in the Louisiana bayou
About forty-five minutes southeast of Thibodaux, Louisiana
Lived a cat called Doc Millsap and his pretty wife Hannah
Well, they raised up a son that could eat up his weight in groceries
Named him after a man of the cloth
Called him Amos Moses
Sit down on ’em Amos!
Make it count son
About forty-five minutes southeast of Thibodaux, Louisiana
Lived a man called Doc Millsap and his pretty wife Hannah