Alice's Restaurant: A Folk Rock Classic and Its Creator Arlo Guthrie
Introduction
The song Alice's Restaurant has become an enduring piece of American folk rock music. Released in 1967, it captures a moment in history through its humorous yet poignant lyrics. The song is known for its anti-war sentiments and has become a Thanksgiving Day tradition for many around the world. This article will explore the origins of the song, its creator Arlo Guthrie, and its enduring legacy.
The Story Behind the Song
Alice's Restaurant is a talking blues song that tells the story of Arlo Guthrie's arrest for illegally dumping garbage on Thanksgiving Day 1965. The act disqualified him from military service, leading to his famous and long-duration performance with the song. The full title of the song is actually Alice's Restaurant Massacre, given to the song due to the extended duration and the comedic nature of the lyrics. A film by the same name, released in 1969, was based on the song and the incident that inspired it.
Arlo Guthrie and His Family Connection
Arlo Guthrie is the son of Woody Guthrie, a legendary folk singer known for songs such as “This Land is My Land.” Woody Guthrie taught young Arlo the value of music and storytelling. Arlo's father’s influence played a significant role in shaping his musical career. Woody Guthrie’s death in 1967 from ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) may have contributed to Arlo's concerns about his health, though he has managed to enjoy a long and successful career.
The Song's Impact and Legacy
The song gained popularity through its debut at the Philadelphia Folk Festival in 1967. Despite not initially being a radio hit, it eventually became a cult classic. Playing the classic song Alice's Restaurant has become a Thanksgiving tradition for many. Today, radio stations that once avoided the song now include it in their holiday playlists.
Beyond "Alice's Restaurant"
Arlo Guthrie is more than just the creator of Alice's Restaurant. He has a myriad of other works to his credit, including the song Police Patrol (The Paws of Mr Claws), which he dedicated to the FBI and the local police departments. This dedication reflects his involvement in the community and his ability to find humor even in the most serious of topics. The White Horse pub in Brixton, London, where he performed, was tragically demolished, leaving the memory of his performances and dedication to the community.
A Bonus Fact
One of Arlo's performances of Alice's Restaurant lasted for over 30 minutes, making it a unique and engaging experience for audiences. Some of his live performances have even exceeded 45 minutes, captivating listeners with his storytelling and music.
Conclusion
From its origins as a protest song against the Vietnam War to its current status as a Thanksgiving tradition, Alice's Restaurant has played a significant role in American music history. Arlo Guthrie's contribution to the song and his family connection to Woody Guthrie make him a notable figure in the world of folk and rock music. Despite the challenges, Arlo has continued to perform and share his music with audiences, ensuring the song's enduring legacy.