Cripple Creek

“Cripple Creek” is a traditional American bluegrass and old-time fiddle tune, closely tied to the Appalachian music tradition. The origins of the tune are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, and its name is often associated with Cripple Creek, Colorado, a town that boomed during the gold rush era. However, there’s no definitive evidence that the tune was directly inspired by the town or its gold mining activities. It’s also possible that the title refers to the Cripple Creek in Virginia or Kentucky, regions that also have strong historical ties to mining.

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The tune itself is often played in 2/4 time and has a distinctive rhythmic feel, making it a favorite in bluegrass and old-time fiddle music. It is commonly performed in a D major or A major key, though regional variations exist. Its upbeat, driving rhythm and simple, repetitive structure made it popular for square dances, barn dances, and informal gatherings in rural Appalachia.

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“Cripple Creek” gained significant exposure during the 1920s and 1930s, with recordings by prominent old-time musicians such as Fiddlin’ John Carson and Gid Tanner. The tune’s popularity grew further with the rise of bluegrass music in the mid-20th century, as musicians like Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt incorporated it into their repertoires. It became a standard in the bluegrass world due to its upbeat tempo, its suitability for instrumental improvisation, and its appeal to dancers.

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Over time, “Cripple Creek” has become one of the most enduring and widely recognized fiddle tunes in American roots music. It remains a beloved tune for jam sessions, bluegrass festivals, and fiddle competitions, where it continues to be passed down through generations of musicians.

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Verse 1: I’m goin’ up to Cripple Creek, Goin’ to the county fair, I’m goin’ up to Cripple Creek, Goin’ to the county fair, I’m gonna buy a pretty girl A diamond ring to wear. Chorus: Oh, Cripple Creek, Cripple Creek, Oh, Cripple Creek, don’t you see, I’m gonna go to Cripple Creek And bring that gold back home to me. Verse 2: Now, when I get to Cripple Creek, I’m gonna build me a house, When I get to Cripple Creek, I’m gonna build me a house, Gonna get me a pretty woman And I’ll be her louse. Chorus: Oh, Cripple Creek, Cripple Creek, Oh, Cripple Creek, don’t you see, I’m gonna go to Cripple Creek And bring that gold back home to me.