“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Introduction to Loretta Lynn’s “Fist City”
Loretta Lynn, the “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” is a legendary figure in country music. Known for her candid lyrics that often explored the experiences of working-class women, Lynn’s songs have resonated with audiences for decades. One of her most iconic and controversial tracks is “Fist City,” a powerful anthem of female empowerment and a stark warning to any woman who might dare to cross her territory.
Released in 1968, “Fist City” was a departure from the more traditional country ballads that Lynn had previously recorded. Inspired by a personal experience, the song tells the tale of a woman who confronts another woman who has been making advances on her husband. With lyrics like, “I’m gonna give you a lesson, a lesson that you’ll never forget,” Lynn delivers a scathing rebuke to her rival, threatening physical violence if she doesn’t back off.
The song’s unapologetic tone and aggressive lyrics were groundbreaking for its time. In an era when women were often relegated to domestic roles and expected to tolerate their husbands’ infidelity, “Fist City” offered a defiant message of independence and self-preservation. It was a powerful declaration of a woman’s right to defend her territory and her loved ones, no matter the cost.
Beyond its provocative lyrics, “Fist City” is a testament to Lynn’s songwriting prowess. The song’s melody is catchy and memorable, and Lynn’s vocals are full of emotion and conviction. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Lynn’s powerful message to take center stage.
“Fist City” remains a controversial song, with some critics arguing that it promotes violence and reinforces harmful stereotypes about women. However, others see it as a bold and empowering statement that challenged traditional gender roles and expectations. Regardless of one’s perspective, there is no denying that the song is a landmark in country music history and a testament to Loretta Lynn’s enduring legacy.
Lyrics
A you’ve been makin’ your brags around town
That you’ve been a lovin’ my [C] man
But the man I love, when he picks up trash
He puts it in a garbage can
And that’s what a you look like to me
And what I see’s a [F] pity
Ya better close your face and stay outta my way
If ya don’t wanna go to fist city
Chorus:
If ya don’t wanna go to fist city
Ya better detour around my town
‘Cause I’ll grab you by the hair a the head
And I’ll lift a you off a the ground
I’m not a sayin’ my baby’s a saint ’cause he ain’t
N’ that he won’t cat around with a kitty
I’m here to tell ya gal to lay offa my man
If ya don’t wanna go to fistcity
Break: Riff as played in Intro, starting on the last C chord of the chorus
Second Verse, same chords as the first verse:
Come on and tell me what you told my friends
If you think you’re brave enough
And I’ll show you what a real woman is
Since you think you’re hot stuff
You’ll bite off more than you can chew
If you get too cute or witty
You better move your feet
If you don’t wanna eat
A meal that’s called fist city
Chorus, then repeat last two lines of chorus to end:
I’m here to tell ya gal to lay offa my man
If ya don’t wanna go to fist city…