Lyr Req: Lament of Willie Bones (Pete Sayers)

Subject: Lyr Req: Pete Sayers - Lament of Willie Bones
From: AnneMC
Date: 28 Oct 11 - 06:47 AM

Hi,
I'm hoping someone on the Mudcat knows something about the late Pete Sayers and his song "The Lament of Willie Bones", an anti-Vietnam War song, about a soldier who was reluctant to shoot civilians. Absolutely nothing to be found about the song on the Internet. Any background and lyrics appreciated.

Snippets from an old LP record of 1972 "Bye Bye Tennessee" are:

"Sitting in that foxhole in the ___ pouring rain
the only thing his belly knew was beans...

The sergeant ordered Willie Bones to kill a dozen men...

He didn’t ask to be sent off to war..."

Does anyone have the full lyrics?

Anne

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Pete Sayers - Lament of Willie Bones
From: AnneMC
Date: 29 Oct 11 - 11:29 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Pete Sayers - Lament of Willie Bones
From: Wheatman
Date: 30 Oct 11 - 03:25 PM

Sorry I don't have the song but you could contact the web site of his alter ego "Dennis of Grunty Fen". Just put that in you search engine and it will take you to his web site. His web master may be able to help. Gan canny Brian

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Pete Sayers - Lament of Willie Bones
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 31 Oct 11 - 05:03 AM

What exactly are you looking for Anne? I met Pete several times back in the 70's and I have the record. Unfortunately, its currently buried in the spare room somewhere as we've just had the living room re-plastered. It'll be a month or so before before I can dig it out.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Pete Sayers - Lament of Willie Bones
From: GUEST,Ray
Date: 31 Oct 11 - 05:10 AM

Just another thought, you could try "Smooth Operations" - a.k.a. Nick Baraclough at the BBC. Nick (+Alan Smith - jockey and bass player) formed Pete's backing group back in the 70's and may be able to give you some info. Sadly, Pete's other musical compatriot, Graham Cooper, died last year.