Mississippi Queen

The song 'Mississippi Queen' by Mountain is a classic rock track that exudes the raw energy and spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s rock scene. The lyrics tell the story of a captivating woman from the American South, specifically around Vicksburg and Louisiana, who is likened to the 'Mississippi Queen.' This title could be a metaphor for her dominance and allure, much like the Mississippi River itself—a powerful and seductive force in the landscape of the South.

The song's narrator describes the woman as a 'cajun lady' who is a dancer, suggesting a sense of exoticism and mystery. Her ability to move 'better on wine' implies a wild, uninhibited nature that is intoxicating to the narrator. The repeated line 'If you know what I mean' invites listeners into the shared understanding of her allure. The song contrasts the narrator's infatuation with the woman's charms against the backdrop of other men ('dudes') who are preoccupied with 'gettin' their kicks' or 'making their bread,' highlighting a sense of priority and devotion that the narrator has towards the Mississippi Queen that sets him apart from the others.

The song also touches on themes of love and commitment. The narrator speaks of his willingness to 'do what I can' to keep her happy, including buying her shiny dresses. This suggests a deeper connection and perhaps a romantic relationship, where the narrator is willing to sacrifice ('I was losing mine') for the happiness and maintenance of this relationship. The song encapsulates the essence of Southern rock with its storytelling, guitar-driven sound, and the portrayal of a love that is as wild and untamed as the Mississippi River itself.