In Wilson Pickett‘s town, universal respect for the humanity common to us all allows for an enlightened self-governance to rule the day.
“This Old Town“
Wilson Pickett (1970)
“This Old Town” from Pickett’s 1970 Atlantic album, Right On, was never to appear on a 45, which is a shame, since I think it’s a classic.
The people in this town ain’t got no faces –
They just got love between the races.
The people in this town don’t do no cryin’ –
Don’t have to rob and steal for survivin’.
The heart that should be speaking out just won’t stay silent –
And everybody knows that no man is an island.
I saw a father and his son walking down the street –
They walked hand in hand, what a beautiful sight to see (that makes me know)
The people in this town don’t need no soldiers –
They don’t go around looking over their shoulders.
Everyone’s going around shaking hands, loving everybody and their fellow man –
Ain’t got no room for aggravation, what they love is communication.
Now open up your heart to harmony –
Give a little love, it will set you free.
You don’t have to go round searching for this town –
Right in your heart is where it’s found.
Song written by William Stevenson, Don Covay & Wilson Pickett
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LP Musician & Production Credits
Musicianship provided by The Muscle Shoals Sound Rhythm Section:
Roger Hawkins – drums
David Hood – bass
Eddie Hinton – lead guitar
Jimmy Johnson – rhythm guitar
Barry Beckett – keyboards
Cissy Houston – vocals
Judy Clay – vocals
Jackie Vercell – vocals
Jerome Gasper – vocals
Producer – Jerry Wexler
Producer – Tom Dowd
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Cash Box
Feb. 3, 1968
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LINK to Civil Rights in Popular Music