“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a smoky, dimly lit room in the heart of London during the late 1960s. Amidst the era’s cultural revolution, a song emerges that captivates the underground music scene—This Wheel’s on Fire. The haunting vocals of Julie Driscoll, paired with Brian Auger & Trinity’s innovative arrangement, bring new life to a song originally penned by Bob Dylan and Rick Danko. This rendition, with its soulful yet psychedelic twist, encapsulates the spirit of a generation yearning for change, freedom, and a touch of mystique.
About The Composition
- Title: This Wheel’s on Fire
- Composer: Bob Dylan and Rick Danko (original), performed by Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity
- Premiere Date: Originally recorded by The Band in 1967, with the version by Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity released in 1968.
- Album/Opus/Collection: Open (by Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity)
- Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion
Background
This Wheel’s on Fire holds a unique position in music history, emerging from the creative partnership between Bob Dylan and The Band during the “Basement Tapes” sessions. The song’s initial version in 1967 served as a prototype of Dylan’s shift toward a raw, roots-oriented sound. However, it was the 1968 cover by Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity that propelled it into the spotlight, reimagining the track with a psychedelic flair. This rendition resonated deeply with the burgeoning counterculture movement in the UK, becoming a quintessential track of the era. Its enigmatic lyrics and otherworldly arrangement captured the uncertainty and exploration of the late ’60s.
Musical Style
Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity’s version of This Wheel’s on Fire blends elements of psychedelic rock with jazz-rock fusion, creating a sound that is both timeless and experimental. The track features haunting organ lines, courtesy of Brian Auger, which lay a moody, atmospheric foundation. Julie Driscoll’s vocals are ethereal yet powerful, carrying a sense of urgency that complements the enigmatic lyrics. The song’s structure is relatively straightforward, but its swirling instrumental breaks and dramatic dynamics give it a sense of unpredictability, mirroring the societal changes of its time.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of This Wheel’s on Fire evoke a sense of foreboding and surrealism. Lines like “This wheel’s on fire / Rolling down the road” paint vivid images of a world on the brink of change, filled with cryptic messages and open to interpretation. Julie Driscoll’s delivery amplifies the mysterious and introspective nature of the song, turning it into a reflective meditation on transformation and inevitability.
Performance History
The 1968 cover by Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & Trinity quickly gained traction in the UK, peaking at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart. Its success on the charts was a testament to its resonance with listeners who were eager for a sound that mirrored their own experiences and uncertainties. Over the years, the song has been performed by a wide range of artists, each bringing their unique touch to its enigmatic aura. Notable performances include renditions by The Band and live versions by Brian Auger himself, which highlight the song’s versatility and enduring appeal.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its initial chart success, This Wheel’s on Fire has become a cultural touchstone, representing the experimental spirit of the late 1960s. Its haunting melodies and abstract lyrics have made it a popular choice for film and television, including its prominent use as the theme song for the British television series Absolutely Fabulous. The song’s ability to transcend its original context and find new audiences in different eras speaks to its lasting influence on both music and popular culture.
Legacy
This Wheel’s on Fire continues to captivate listeners, its themes of change and transformation resonating as much today as they did over five decades ago. It remains a standout track in the repertoire of both Julie Driscoll and Brian Auger, as well as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan and Rick Danko’s songwriting. For those who seek to understand the spirit of the late ’60s or appreciate the intersection of rock and jazz, this track serves as a poignant and powerful entry point.
Conclusion
This Wheel’s on Fire is more than just a song; it is a journey through time and sound, a piece that encapsulates the creativity and restlessness of a pivotal era. Whether you’re drawn to Julie Driscoll’s ethereal voice or the mystical organ of Brian Auger, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression. I encourage you to explore this version and compare it with others, such as The Band’s original. For an unforgettable listening experience, check out the live renditions by Brian Auger, where the improvisational spirit of the 1960s truly shines through.
Video
Lyrics
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You
Tell Me Lies
You Ought To
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You Say Goodbye
Well There’s A Light
And There’s A Hope
Come Swing Me Baby
From This Here Rope
I Sold You A Lie
And Prayed That Maybe
Someday You’d Return It
Lord Knows I’ve Earnt It
I Keep Finding Words That Leave You – I Told You I Don’t Mind
Something Tells Me I’m Not Meant To – I Told You I Don’t Mind
I Keep Finding Words That Leave You
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You
Tell Me Lies
You Ought To
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You Say Goodbye
Well There’s A Light
And There’s A Hope
Come Swing Me Baby
From This Here Rope
I Sold You A Lie
And Preyed That Maybe
Someday You’d Return It
Lord Knows I’ve Earnt It
I Keep Finding Words That Leave You – I Told You I Don’t Mind
Something Tells Me I’m Not Meant To – I Told You I Don’t Mind
I Keep Finding Words That Leave You
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You
Tell Me Lies
You Ought To
Wheels On Fire
Why Don’t You Say Goodbye