The Meaning Behind The Song: Voodoo Child (Slight Return) by The String Cheese Incident
The String Cheese Incident is an American jam band known for their unique fusion of bluegrass, rock, and electronic music. One of their most iconic songs is “Voodoo Child (Slight Return),” a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s classic track. This essay will delve into the meaning behind the song, exploring its origins, musical elements, and significance within The String Cheese Incident’s discography and live performances.
Origins and Inspiration
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” was originally written and recorded by Jimi Hendrix for his third studio album, “Electric Ladyland,” released in 1968. The song quickly became a staple of Hendrix’s live performances and showcased his innovative guitar work and psychedelic sound. The String Cheese Incident, known for incorporating covers into their sets, decided to put their own spin on this legendary track.
The inspiration behind The String Cheese Incident’s cover of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” stems from their admiration for Jimi Hendrix as a musical pioneer. The band has always expressed their appreciation for Hendrix’s artistry and ability to push the boundaries of genre and style. By covering this song, they pay tribute to the legacy of one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Musical Elements
The String Cheese Incident’s version of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” stays true to the original structure while infusing their own improvisational jam band style. The song opens with an energetic guitar riff, followed by the band’s tight rhythm section establishing a solid groove. The guitars and keyboards take turns exploring solos, allowing for improvisation and showcasing each member’s instrumental prowess.
The extensive use of distortion and feedback in the guitars, a trademark of both Jimi Hendrix and The String Cheese Incident, creates a psychedelic atmosphere. The band’s ability to seamlessly transition between different musical sections and explore intricate melodies showcases their musicianship and unity as a live act.
Significance in The String Cheese Incident’s Discography
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” holds a special place in The String Cheese Incident’s discography as one of their signature cover songs. It has become a fan-favorite and a staple of their live performances. The band’s unique interpretation of the song allows them to make it their own while keeping the essence of Hendrix’s original composition intact.
The String Cheese Incident has a reputation for embracing improvisation and experimentation in their live shows. “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” provides the band with a platform to showcase their improvisational skills and explore new musical territories. Each performance of the song can vary greatly, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement among fans.
The Energy of Live Performances
One of the defining characteristics of The String Cheese Incident’s live performances is the energy they bring to the stage. “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” often serves as a climax in their sets, drawing the audience into a whirlwind of hypnotic guitar solos, funky basslines, and intricate drumming patterns. The band’s ability to connect with the audience and create a collective experience is what sets their live performances apart.
The improvisational nature of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” allows The String Cheese Incident to extend the song’s duration, sometimes turning it into an extended jam session. This adds an element of spontaneity and unpredictability, providing a unique experience for concert-goers at each show.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” originally by The String Cheese Incident?
No, the song was written and recorded by Jimi Hendrix.
2. Why did The String Cheese Incident decide to cover this song?
The band has always been inspired by Jimi Hendrix’s music and wanted to pay tribute to his legacy.
3. How does The String Cheese Incident’s version differ from the original?
While staying true to the original structure, the band infuses their improvisational jam style into the song.
4. Does The String Cheese Incident often include cover songs in their sets?
Yes, covering songs is a common practice for the band, allowing them to showcase different musical influences and connect with their audience.
5. What makes the live performances of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” unique?
The band’s improvisational skills and ability to explore new musical territories during live performances make each rendition of the song distinct.
6. Is “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” a popular song in The String Cheese Incident’s live shows?
Yes, the song has become a fan-favorite and a staple of their live performances.
7. What musical elements make The String Cheese Incident’s version of the song stand out?
The band’s use of distortion, feedback, and improvisation creates a unique and psychedelic atmosphere.
8. Does The String Cheese Incident often extend the duration of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” during live shows?
Yes, the band is known to turn the song into an extended jam session, adding an element of spontaneity and excitement.
9. Are there any notable live performances of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by The String Cheese Incident?
There are various notable performances of the song available, highlighting the band’s improvisational skills and stage presence.
10. How does “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” fit into The String Cheese Incident’s discography?
The song holds a significant place as one of their signature cover songs, showcasing their musical style and ability to reinterpret classics.
11. Has The String Cheese Incident received any recognition for their version of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”?
While there might not be specific recognition for this cover, the band is widely respected for their musical abilities and live performances.
12. What other cover songs does The String Cheese Incident perform?
The band covers a wide range of songs from different genres, including classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Hey Jude.”
These FAQs aim to provide a deeper understanding of the meaning behind The String Cheese Incident’s cover of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by addressing common questions related to its origins, musical elements, live performances, and its place within the band’s discography. Understanding the context and significance of this song enhances the appreciation for The String Cheese Incident’s interpretation and their contribution to the jam band genre.