Flying Burrito Brothers Dark End Of The Street
Introduction
When it comes to iconic country rock bands, the Flying Burrito Brothers are a name that can't be overlooked. Founded in the late 1960s by Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, the band blended traditional country music with rock and roll, creating a unique sound that would influence many artists who would follow in their footsteps. One of their most noteworthy songs is their cover of "Dark End of the Street," a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists over the years.
The Roots of the Flying Burrito Brothers
The Flying Burrito Brothers began as a side project for Gram Parsons, who had recently left The Byrds. Parsons had a deep love for traditional country music, and he wanted to create a band that could blend the sounds of country and rock. He teamed up with Chris Hillman, who also had a background in country music, and together they assembled a band that included bassist Chris Ethridge and drummer Sneaky Pete Kleinow.
The band's self-titled first album was released in 1969 and received critical acclaim, but it wasn't until their second album, "Burrito Deluxe," that they began to gain commercial success. The album featured a number of classic songs, including "Wheels," "Sin City," and their cover of "Dark End of the Street."
"Dark End of the Street"
"Dark End of the Street" was originally written by Dan Penn and Chips Moman in 1966 and was first recorded by James Carr. The song tells the story of a secret love affair that takes place in the shadows, away from the prying eyes of society. It's a haunting and emotive song that has been covered by many artists over the years, including Linda Ronstadt, Aretha Franklin, and The Black Keys.
The Flying Burrito Brothers' cover of the song is widely considered to be one of the best. Their version is stripped down and raw, with Parsons' soulful vocals taking center stage. The band's signature blend of country and rock is on full display, with Sneaky Pete's pedal steel guitar adding a haunting touch to the already poignant lyrics.
The Legacy of the Flying Burrito Brothers
The Flying Burrito Brothers' influence on country rock cannot be overstated. Their sound paved the way for artists like Emmylou Harris, The Eagles, and The Byrds. Gram Parsons' tragic death in 1973 only added to the band's mystique, and his legacy as a pioneer of country rock continues to be celebrated to this day.
While the Flying Burrito Brothers may not have achieved the commercial success of some of their contemporaries, their influence on music cannot be denied. Their unique sound and passionate performances have earned them a place in the pantheon of great American bands, and their cover of "Dark End of the Street" stands as a testament to their enduring legacy.
Conclusion
The Flying Burrito Brothers' cover of "Dark End of the Street" is a masterpiece of country rock music. It's a haunting and emotive song that speaks to the heart of human desire and the pain of secret love affairs. The band's unique sound and passionate performances have earned them a place in music history, and their legacy continues to influence artists to this day. If you haven't heard the Flying Burrito Brothers' version of "Dark End of the Street," do yourself a favor and listen to it today.