The Meaning Behind The Song: “Married to My Hack” by The New Basement Tapes
As a fan of The New Basement Tapes, the collaboration project that brought together legendary musicians to set previously undiscovered Bob Dylan lyrics to music, “Married to My Hack” has always been a standout track for me. Its catchy rhythm and playful lyrics never fail to put a smile on my face and transport me to a simpler time.
The song tells the story of a man who is content with his life on the road, driving his trusty vehicle (“hack”). He appreciates the little things, like having his lunch packed for him by his partner at five in the morning. However, despite the many temptations and distractions he encounters along the way, he would rather stay faithful to his beloved hack.
“Married to My Hack” Lyrics
Five in the morning, she would fix my lunch
Put it in a paper sack
Where I’m headed, I always appreciate it
But I’d rather stay married to my hack
I move like the breeze and the birds and the bees
That I’ve never been known to look back
I got fifteen women and all of them swimming
But I’d rather stay married to my hack
I move fifteen miles every minute, I’m all smiles
I shoot by my sister’s shack
She’s got some friend who waves at men, a fine little hen
But I’d rather stay married to my hack
I got twelve-wheel drive and an oversized hive
And air-cooled brakes in the back
Candy McGraft’s always good for a laugh
But I’d rather stay married to my hack
I got a pedal to hit and an engine that won’t quit
And a carburetor that won’t crack
Maureen and Milly, they’re a little silly
But there’s nothing that they do lack
I got loose-eyed ladies who never seen a man
Just waiting around the back
Give me a bottle or someone to throttle
‘Cause I’d rather stay married to my hack
Album title: Lost On The River (Deluxe) (2014)
“Married to My Hack” showcases the sonically diverse talents of the musicians involved in the recording. Elvis Costello’s lead vocals and electric guitar add a rock flair, while Rhiannon Giddens provides backing vocals, Taylor Goldsmith lays down the bass, Jim James adds the mellotron, Marcus Mumford handles the drums, and “T-Bone” Burnett rocks the electric guitar. The combined sound encapsulates the feel-good energy of the song.
It’s interesting to note that the lyrics were originally written by Bob Dylan, one of the greatest songwriters of our time. This collaborative project allowed the unreleased lyrics to finally come to life, and “Married to My Hack” is a prime example of the magic that can be created when talented artists come together to interpret and perform Dylan’s words.
Additional Information
The song “Married to My Hack” is part of the album “Lost On The River (Deluxe)” released in 2014. The album showcases the collective efforts of The New Basement Tapes, which featured musicians such as Elvis Costello, Rhiannon Giddens, Taylor Goldsmith, Jim James, Marcus Mumford, and producer T Bone Burnett.
Credits
- Produced By T Bone Burnett
- Written By Elvis Costello & Bob Dylan
- Drums: Jay Bellerose & Marcus Mumford
- Mellotron: Jim James
- Bass: Taylor Goldsmith
- Backing Vocals: Rhiannon Giddens
- Guitar: T Bone Burnett
- Vocals, Guitar: Elvis Costello
- Recorded At Capitol Studios, Hollywood, California
- Release Date: November 11, 2014
Tags: Rock, Folk Rock
Listening to “Married to My Hack” always reminds me of the power of music to bring people together and create something truly special. It’s a joyful and lighthearted song that captures the essence of the road trip spirit and the bond between a person and their beloved vehicle. Whether you’re driving down the highway or simply looking for a song to lift your spirits, “Married to My Hack” is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and make you appreciate the simple pleasures in life.
