About the song
Remember the days when the radio was your constant companion, and a catchy tune could transport you to another world? Paul Revere & the Raiders’ hit single, “Indian Reservation,” released in 1971, is one of those songs that has stood the test of time. It’s a poignant ballad that explores themes of loss, longing, and the complexities of identity.
The song’s narrative follows a Native American who recounts his experiences growing up on a reservation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marked by hardship and isolation. The protagonist expresses a deep sense of longing for a simpler time and a place where he feels truly connected to his heritage.
Mark Lindsay’s soulful vocals, coupled with the band’s signature rock sound, give the song an emotional depth that resonates with listeners of all ages. The lyrics are both evocative and thought-provoking, using imagery that is both familiar and foreign. The phrase “Indian Reservation” itself becomes a symbol of a place that is both home and prison.
“Indian Reservation” was more than just a popular song; it was a cultural touchstone. It sparked important conversations about the experiences of Native Americans and the challenges they faced. The song’s success helped to raise awareness of the plight of indigenous peoples and contributed to a growing sense of social consciousness in the 1970s.
What makes “Indian Reservation” so enduring? Perhaps it’s the song’s universal themes of loss, longing, and the search for identity. These are emotions that we can all relate to, regardless of our background or upbringing. The song’s simple yet powerful message has resonated with generations of listeners, and it continues to be a beloved classic today.
If you’re looking for a song that will stay with you long after the last note fades, “Indian Reservation” is definitely worth a listen. It’s a timeless piece of music that reminds us of the power of song to connect us to our past and inspire us to hope for a better future.”
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