One Tin Soldier - Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
"One Tin Soldier" is a cover song by the punk rock supergroup Me First and the Gimme Gimmes. Originally performed by the band Coven, the track was featured in the 1971 movie "Billy Jack." The theme of the song revolves around the tragic consequences of greed and the futility of war. The lyrics tell the story of a peaceful mountain kingdom that is invaded by outsiders who are searching for treasure. Despite the kingdom's offer to share their treasure, the invaders proceed to destroy the kingdom, only to find that the treasure they seek is simply a message of peace and love. The composition of the song features fast-paced punk rock instrumentation, with energetic guitar riffs and powerful drum beats. The vocals are delivered with passion and intensity, capturing the emotional weight of the song's message. "One Tin Soldier" has become a classic protest song, resonating with audiences who are opposed to war and violence. Me First and the Gimme Gimmes' version of the song adds a punk rock edge to the original, bringing a new level of energy and intensity to the powerful lyrics. Overall, "One Tin Soldier" by Me First and the Gimme Gimmes is a thought-provoking and powerful track that continues to inspire listeners with its timeless message of peace and unity.
Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
Me First and the Gimme Gimmes is a punk rock supergroup formed in 1995, consisting of members from various prominent punk bands including NOFX, Lagwagon, and Swingin' Utters. The band's unique concept is to cover popular songs from a wide range of genres, giving them a punk rock twist. The band's lineup includes Spike Slawson on vocals, Joey Cape on guitar, Chris Shiflett on guitar, Fat Mike on bass, and Dave Raun on drums. Each member brings their own distinct style and energy to the group, creating a dynamic and entertaining live performance. Me First and the Gimme Gimmes quickly gained a loyal following with their energetic live shows and catchy covers of classic songs. Their debut album, "Have a Ball," was released in 1997 and featured punk rock renditions of hits like "Come Sail Away" by Styx and "Sloop John B" by The Beach Boys. The band followed up with several more successful albums, including "Blow in the Wind" and "Are a Drag." One of the band's biggest achievements is their ability to take well-known songs and put a punk rock spin on them, creating a fresh and exciting sound that appeals to a wide audience. They have covered songs from artists as diverse as Elton John, Neil Diamond, and The Beatles, proving their versatility and creativity as musicians. Me First and the Gimme Gimmes have had a significant impact on the punk rock music scene, inspiring other bands to experiment with cover songs and push the boundaries of traditional punk rock. Their fun and irreverent approach to music has earned them a dedicated fan base and solidified their reputation as one of the most entertaining live acts in the punk rock genre. Overall, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes have carved out a unique niche for themselves in the music industry, blending punk rock attitude with a love for classic songs. Their infectious energy and playful spirit continue to captivate audiences around the world, making them a beloved and enduring presence in the punk rock community.