Bastard's Blues

Brother Dege Legg's song "Bastard's Blues" is a haunting narrative that delves into the life of a man who has been condemned to death. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marred by hardship, violence, and an inevitable end. The protagonist's journey is marked by a series of unfortunate events, starting from a young age when he was "raised to pull on a snake chain," a metaphor that suggests a life of hard labor and oppression. By the age of 12, he had already gone astray, and by 22, he was accused of murder, leading to his current predicament where he faces execution.

The song's chorus, "Raised to pull on a snake chain," is a powerful metaphor for the systemic oppression and the cycle of violence that the protagonist has been trapped in since childhood. The snake chain could symbolize the constricting and dangerous life he has led, one that has ultimately led him to a death sentence. The imagery of the boss man being found "cold dead" and the town being painted "blood red" further emphasizes the violent and unforgiving world the protagonist inhabits.

As the song progresses, the protagonist contemplates his fate and the possibility of escape. The lines "Come down slow, jailer / I think I got me a way out" suggest a fleeting hope for freedom, but this hope is quickly overshadowed by the grim reality of his situation. The song ends with the protagonist being led to his execution, a somber conclusion to a life filled with suffering and injustice. Brother Dege Legg's raw and evocative storytelling, combined with his bluesy musical style, creates a powerful and emotional narrative that resonates deeply with listeners.