Jim Croce – Bad Bad, Leroy Brown | Have You Heard: Jim Croce Live

About the song

“Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” from the live album “Have You Heard: Jim Croce Live” is a quintessential example of Croce’s storytelling genius. Released in 1973, just months before his tragic death, the song became an instant hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and cementing Croce’s place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.

The song’s narrative is simple yet captivating. It paints a vivid picture of Leroy Brown, a man whose reputation precedes him. He’s the “baddest man in the whole damn town,” a larger-than-life character who struts around with his diamond rings and fancy clothes, leaving a trail of awe and intimidation wherever he goes. Croce masterfully uses vivid imagery and colloquialisms to bring Leroy to life, making him a character that listeners can easily visualize and relate to, despite his flaws.

Croce’s vocal delivery is both playful and poignant. He doesn’t simply sing the lyrics; he embodies the story, infusing it with humor and a touch of melancholy. His voice, warm and expressive, draws you into the narrative, making you feel like you’re sitting right there in the bar, listening to the tale unfold.

But beneath the catchy melody and humorous lyrics lies a deeper message. Leroy Brown, despite his bravado, is ultimately a tragic figure. His arrogance and disregard for others lead to his downfall, reminding us that even the “baddest” among us are not invincible. Croce’s storytelling doesn’t shy away from the consequences of Leroy’s actions, offering a subtle commentary on pride and hubris.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatability. We’ve all encountered “Leroy Browns” in our lives – those individuals who exude confidence and charm, but whose actions often betray their true character. Croce’s genius lies in his ability to capture these universal human experiences and translate them into timeless musical narratives.

“Have You Heard: Jim Croce Live” captures the energy and intimacy of Croce’s live performances. The album showcases his exceptional guitar skills, his warm rapport with the audience, and the raw emotion that he poured into every song. “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” performed live, takes on a new dimension, with Croce’s improvisations and interactions with the crowd adding another layer of authenticity to the already compelling story.

This song, with its memorable lyrics, catchy melody, and Croce’s signature storytelling, continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. It’s a testament to Croce’s artistry and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply human level.

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Lyrics

Well the South side of Chicago
Is the baddest part of town
And if you go down there
You better just beware
Of a man named Leroy Brown

Now Leroy more than trouble
You see he stand ’bout six foot four
All the downtown ladies call him “Treetop Lover”
All the men just call him “Sir”

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Now Leroy he a gambler
And he like his fancy clothes
And he like to wave his diamond rings
In front of everybody’s nose
He got a custom Continental
He got an Eldorado too
He got a thirty two gun in his pocket for fun
He got a razor in his shoe

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Now Friday ’bout a week ago
Leroy shootin’ dice
And at the edge of the bar
Sat a girl named Doris
And oo that girl looked nice
Well he cast his eyes upon her
And the trouble soon began
And Leroy Brown learned a lesson
‘Bout messin’ with the wife of a jealous man

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Well the two men took to fighting
And when they pulled them off the floor
Leroy looked like a jigsaw puzzle
With a couple of pieces gone

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

And it’s bad, bad Leroy Brown
The baddest man in the whole damned town
Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog

Badder than old King Kong
And meaner than a junkyard dog