“The One On The Right Is On The Left” is a quirky and thought-provoking track from Johnny Cash that offers a humorous commentary on the political climate of his time. Released as a B-side on his album Everybody Loves a Nut, this song employs a satirical tone to highlight the absurdity of political divisions.
The lyrics present a chaotic scene at a folk music concert where political affiliations lead to a chaotic brawl among the audience. The repetitive chorus, “Well, the one on the right was on the left and the one in the middle was on the right and the one on the left was in the middle and the guy in the rear…” serves as a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the confusion and contradictions often found in political discourse.
Cash’s delivery is both playful and insightful, as he paints a vivid picture of a concert gone awry. His deep, resonant voice lends a sense of authority to the narrative, even as he mocks the absurdity of the situation. The song’s simple, folksy melody complements the lighthearted tone, making it a catchy and memorable tune.
While the song may seem lighthearted on the surface, it carries a deeper message about the importance of unity and understanding. By highlighting the absurdity of political divisions, Cash encourages listeners to look beyond their differences and find common ground.
“The One On The Right Is On The Left” is a testament to Johnny Cash’s versatility as an artist. While he is best known for his serious, heartfelt ballads, this song showcases his ability to craft a humorous and thought-provoking tune. It’s a reminder that even the most serious of topics can be approached with a sense of humor and irony.
Lyrics
There once was a musical troupe
A pickin’ singin’ folk group
They sang the mountain ballads
And the folk songs of our land
They were long on musical ability
Folks thought they would go far
But political incompatibility
Led to their downfall
Well, the one on the right was on the left
And the one in the middle was on the right
And the one on the left was in the middle
And the guy in the rear was a Methodist
This musical aggregation
Toured the entire nation
Singing the traditional ballads
And the folk songs of our land (land)
They performed with great virtuosity
And soon they were the rage
But political animosity
Prevailed upon the stage
Well, the one on the right was on the left
And the one in the middle was on the right
And the one on the left was in the middle
And the guy in the rear burned his driver’s license
Well the curtain had ascended
A hush fell on the crowd
As thousands there were gathered
To hear the folk songs of our land
But they took their politics seriously
And that night at the concert hall
As the audience watched deliriously
They had a free-for-all
Well, the one on the right was on the bottom
And the one in the middle was on the top
And the one on the left got a broken arm
And the guy in the rear said, “Oh dear”
Now this should be a lesson
If you plan to start a folk group
Don’t go mixin’ politics
With the folk songs of our land
Just work on harmony and diction
Play your banjo well
And if you have political convictions
Keep ’em to yourself
Now, the one on the left works in a bank
And the one in the middle drives a truck
The one on the right’s an all-night deejay
And the guy in the rear got drafted