Alexei Volkov
Plastic Jesus is an American folk song written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Ernie Marrs, Snow Patrol, and Paul Newman in the film Cool Hand Luke. The song's lyrics have been the subject of some debate, with some people finding them offensive, while others argue that they are not meant to be sacrilegious but are instead a critique of those who commercialize religion through the sale of religious trinkets. The song is also notable for its ironic tone, which some have interpreted as a parody of religious radio broadcasts of the time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year | 1957 |
| Writers | Ed Rush and George Cromarty |
| Performers | The Goldcoast Singers, Ernie Marrs, Snow Patrol, Guido Belcanto, Flaming Lips, Janis Joplin, Paul Newman, Joe Bethancourt, Tia Blake |
| Themes | Religion, Superficiality, Folk, Humor, Parody |
| Inspiration | Christian radio station in Del Rio, Texas |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The song's lyrics and their meaning
"Plastic Jesus" is an American folk song written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957. It was recorded as a humorous ad spoof in 1962 by The Goldcoast Singers, a folk duo comprising Rush and Cromarty. The song was inspired by a religious radio station in Del Rio, Texas, that ran ads with copy that resembled the song's eventual lyrics.
The song's lyrics are about the superficiality of religion and the commercialisation of Jesus' image. The narrator of the song is unconcerned about the weather or driving conditions ("I don't care if it rains or freezes") as long as they have their "plastic Jesus sitting on the dashboard of my car". The plastic Jesus is described as coming "in colours, pink and pleasant" and "iridescent", highlighting its cheap, mass-produced nature. The song also mentions a "sweet Madonna / Dressed in rhinestones, sitting on a pedestal of abalone shell", further emphasising the commercialisation of religion.
The song's tone is ironic and humorous, and it is meant to be a parody of those who cheapen the image of Jesus by selling religious kitsch. Despite this, some people are offended by the lyrics, interpreting them as sacrilegious.
Over the years, the folk tradition of this song has grown, and several additional verses have been added. Many folk lyrics refer to Jesus, but some verses mention Mary, Joseph, the Apostles, or the Devil. There are also parodies of the song, such as "Plastic Vishnu" and "Plastic Cthulhu", which reference other religious figures.
Easy Ways to Open Plastic Pill Sheets
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Authorship and credit disputes
"Plastic Jesus" is an American folk song written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957. They recorded it as a humorous ad spoof in 1962 under the name The Goldcoast Singers. The song's authorship has been a subject of dispute, with some sources incorrectly attributing it to Ernie Marrs, who recorded his version in 1965. Despite Rush and Cromarty being listed as the authors by ASCAP and the song's publisher, EMI Music Publishing, Marrs is sometimes credited as the songwriter due to his version being published in the folk music magazine Sing Out!
The inspiration for the song came from a religious radio station in mid-1950s Texas, which sold "the most outrageous stuff imaginable, all with magical healing properties." Over time, the song has become a standard, with notable recordings by Paul Newman in the film "Cool Hand Luke" and artists like The Flaming Lips, Billy Idol, and Snow Patrol, as well as several US folk and country artists.
Ernie Marrs is recognised for adding significant contributions to the song, although he is not officially credited as a writer. Following folk tradition, numerous verses and lyrics have been added to the song over the years, with many versions now in existence. The song's light-hearted and humorous nature has made it a popular choice for covers and adaptations, with artists putting their unique spins on it.
Lego's Innovative Approach to Excess Plastic
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Intent and interpretation
"Plastic Jesus" is an American folk song written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957. The song was initially recorded by the duo themselves as The Goldcoast Singers in 1962. The song has often been misattributed to Ernie Marrs, who recorded a version in 1965.
The song's lyrics have been interpreted in various ways, with some listeners finding them offensive or sacrilegious. However, the intent behind the song is not to disparage religion but to critique the commercialisation of religion and the cheapening of religious figures through kitsch trinkets and souvenirs. The song's authors were reportedly inspired by a religious radio station in Del Rio, Texas, which ran ads for religious products that seemed outrageous and exploitative.
The song's lyrics, "I don't care if it rains or freezes/Long as I got my plastic Jesus/Sittin' on the dashboard of my car," highlight the idea of a superficial or convenient form of religion. The singer expresses a sense of comfort and protection from having a "plastic Jesus" without necessarily engaging in a deeper spiritual practice. This interpretation is reinforced by the following lines: "Get yourself a sweet Madonna/Dressed in rhinestones, sitting on a pedestal of an abalone shell." Here, the singer is encouraged to acquire religious figures as decorative items rather than objects of sincere devotion.
The song also seems to critique the idea of using religion as a form of insurance against wrongdoing. In the lines, "Goin' ninety, I ain't scary/Cause I've got the Virgin Mary /Assurin' me that I won't go to hell," the singer suggests that their religious talismans will protect them from the consequences of their actions, regardless of their behaviour. This interpretation aligns with the song's critique of superficial religious engagement.
Over the years, the folk tradition of this song has evolved, with various additional verses being added. Some of these verses refer not only to Jesus but also to other religious figures such as Mary, Joseph, the Apostles, or even figures from other religious traditions like "Plastic Vishnu" and "Plastic Cthulhu." These adaptations further emphasise the song's commentary on the commercialisation and commodification of religion, where religious figures are reduced to mass-produced trinkets.
Overall, the intent and interpretation of "Plastic Jesus" revolve around a satirical critique of the commercialisation and superficiality that can sometimes be found in religious practices. The song encourages listeners to reflect on the potential dangers of reducing spiritual beliefs to mere commodities and to consider the deeper meanings and commitments that religious engagement entails.
Covering Plastic Manifold Holes: Quick and Easy Solutions
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cultural impact and influence
"Plastic Jesus" is an American folk song written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957. The song gained popularity after being featured in the 1967 movie "Cool Hand Luke", where Paul Newman's character sings it after learning of his mother's death. The song is often mistakenly attributed to Ernie Marrs, who recorded a version in 1965, but Rush and Cromarty are listed as the authors by ASCAP and EMI Music Publishing.
The song has had a significant cultural impact and has been subject to various interpretations and parodies over the years. It is believed to be a humorous critique of commercialism and the superficiality of religion, targeting those who cheapen the image of Jesus by selling religious kitsch. The lyrics, "I don't care if it rains or freezes/Long as I got my plastic Jesus/Sittin' on the dashboard of my car", highlight the irony of finding solace in a mass-produced religious trinket.
The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Billy Idol, who included it on his 2005 album "Devil's Playground", and The Flaming Lips, who featured it on their 1993 album "Transmissions From the Satellite Heart". Janis Joplin is also noted for her version. These interpretations showcase the song's enduring appeal and its ability to resonate with different artists and audiences.
The impact of "Plastic Jesus" can also be seen in the various parodies it has inspired. Folk singer Joe Bethancourt has created parodies such as "Plastic Vishnu" and "Plastic Cthulhu", playing on the original song's theme while incorporating elements of different religions. These parodies not only add a layer of humour to the original but also reflect a broader cultural engagement with the song's themes and its take on religion and commercialism.
Overall, "Plastic Jesus" has left a lasting mark on popular culture. Its presence in film, music, and parodies showcases its cultural influence and how it continues to spark conversations and creativity surrounding its themes.
Plastic's Surprising Environmental Benefits: An Eco-Friendly Future?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Parodies and alternate versions
The song "Plastic Jesus" is a well-known folk song with a satirical edge, commenting on commercialism and superficiality in religion. It has been suggested that the song originated with a group of migrant farm workers in California during the 1950s, who sang it as a protest against the materialism they saw in American culture, especially the commercialization of religion. The song has since become a staple of American folk music and has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation. While the original version is serious in tone, there have been several parodies and alternate versions over the years that offer a humorous take on the song's message.
One of the most famous parodies is the "Dr. Pepper Song," which was popularized by the Smothers Brothers in the 1960s. In this version, the lyrics are changed to be about a man's love for Dr. Pepper, with the iconic line "I love Dr. Pepper; it's my favorite drink/I buy a bottle and I feel I think." This parody lightheartedly critiques the idea of consumerism and brand loyalty, replacing the religious icon of Jesus with a soft drink.
Another well-known parody is "Plastic Elvis," which was performed by the comedy group The Folksmen. This version pokes fun at the commercialism surrounding Elvis Presley and the myriad of Elvis memorabilia that was available, from posters and plates to life-size statues. The song humorously suggests that these plastic Elvis figures are no less divine than a plastic Jesus, and questions the nature of celebrity worship.
In addition to these parodies, there have been numerous alternate versions of "Plastic Jesus" that offer a more lighthearted take on the original. For example, a version by the band Dread Zeppelin presents a reggae interpretation of the song, complete with a laid-back groove and a humorous spoken-word interlude. This version maintains the satirical edge of the original while adding a new musical twist.
Some artists have also created cover versions that, while not exactly parodies, offer a unique interpretation of the song. For instance, singer-songwriter Paul Thorn's version adds a bluesy, soulful twist to the folk song, emphasizing the emotional depth of the lyrics. His rendition, while staying true to the original message, brings a new level of musicality and pathos to the song.
These parodies and alternate versions of "Plastic Jesus" showcase the enduring appeal of the song and its ability to be reinterpreted for different audiences and contexts. Through humor, musical experimentation, and creative lyricism, these versions expand the conversation around commercialism, consumerism, and the role of religion in popular culture.
Easy Ways to Detach Models from Plastic Sprues
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The song was written by Ed Rush and George Cromarty in 1957.
The song "Plastic Jesus" is about the superficiality of religion. It is not meant to be sacrilegious but is aimed at those who cheapen the image of Jesus by selling religious kitsch.
The song was originally recorded by Cromarty and Rush as The Goldcoast Singers in 1962.
