About That Song: “The Old Goose and Gander” HAPPY NEW YEAR

Here’s Crow talking about this post. Let us know what you think of the audio-thing.

To dream of a goose is considered good luck in some cultures. Being called a goose can be a good-natured insult from a friend. I love this story of an old couple being awkward and goose-like… then wowing the crowd as they graced the dance floor. This song was inspired by watching “Barn Dance” on late-night television when I was on the road and unable to sleep.

This tune was recorded and produced by Mitch Watkins. It features Betty Elders singing harmonies and Gene Elders on the five-string fiddle.

Here’s the song on the 1995 album. . . (put on your dancing shoes.)

The Old Goose and Gander. by Crow Johnson (ASCAP)

The old goose and gander always sit right over there. Show up a seven, he pulls out her chair. He’s got his pants tucked in his boots, she’s got a red bow in her hair. We try not to laugh, but some people stare.

She was someone’s pretty daughter. He was someone’s son. Ninety years later, we’re just poking fun. When he hears that fiddle a change takes place. He reaches for her hand and a smile comes to her face.

And no spangled jacket, no starry sky could ever glitter half as bright as the look in that old couple’s eye. And those high steppin’ goslings all feathered out to fly, step aside with a little pride as that old goose and gander glide by.

The old goose and gander are as ancient as can be. How they got here is a mystery to me. He carries a cane and she can hardly hear. But start up some old fiddle tune and all those years just disappear. As they’re heading for the dance floor, strangers roll their eyes. We just wait and watch, they’re going to be surprised when that old goose and gander glide right by. With a fancy step or two and a twinkle in their eyes.

And no spangled jacket, no starry sky could ever glitter half as bright as the look in that old couple’s eye. And those high steppin’ goslings all feathered out to fly, step aside with a little pride as that old goose and gander glide by.

Step aside with a little pride as that old goose and gander glide by…

Did you dance up a sweat? It’s fun for me to revisit this song, especially in my elder years. Any song I’ve written and recorded can be heard for free at crowjohnson.bandcamp.com. And we have all of the CDs available at www.crowspun.com/store. If you order, I’ll be bundling them up for you. Auntie Crow