Top 10 Hot Tuna Songs

As a teenager growing up in the 1970s, some of the coolest concerts I ever attended were Hot Tuna shows on Long Island. If one wanted to define 1970s culture or at least get a sense of what it was like growing up as a teenager into rock music, all they would have to do is go back in time to attend a Hot Tuna concert. Sure, The Grateful Dead concerts were an experience themselves, but a Hot Tuna concert was a little more unique and much more intimate.

Some of the longest-running concerts I have ever attended were Hot Tuna performances at the Commack Arena in the heart of Long Island, New York. Hot Tuna had a large audience on Long Island in the 1970s. Southern rock and music like The Grateful Dead were huge on Long Island. The Marshall Tucker Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels, and Neil Young were consistently played on car radios and turntables in the suburbs of Long Island in the 1970s. Of course, those bands were popular nationwide, but many people do not realize they were also very popular in the suburbs of the North Eastern Cities of the United States.

Our top 10 Hot Tuna songs list looks at a band that was too often regarded just as an offshoot of the Jefferson Airplane. Yes, they were initially formed as a side band by Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, who were members of The Jefferson Airplane in the 1960s. They formed into something more potent than just a side band and have been together for 50 years. Hot Tuna was a legend in their own making. Hot Tuna delivered some of the most organic rock music of all time. Listen to these great Hot Tuna songs, and you will understand what we are talking about.

# 10 – Highway Song

“Highway Song” by Hot Tuna marks its place not just as a track on their third studio album, Burgers, but as the opening song on our list of the top 10 Hot Tuna songs. Released in 1972, Burgers represents a critical juncture in Hot Tuna’s evolution from their roots as a side project of Jefferson Airplane members to a standalone name in American blues and rock. Recorded at the Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco with producer Al Schmitt, “Highway Song” embodies the band’s blend of blues, folk, and rock elements, driven by Jorma Kaukonen’s intricate guitar work and Jack Casady’s deep, melodic bass lines.

The track features Kaukonen’s reflective lyrics and smooth vocal delivery, setting a tone of wanderlust and longing that resonates throughout the song: “I don’t want to be a rolling stone, alone; Put my highway blues to rest.” This lyric speaks to the quintessential theme of the road—a common motif in rock music that symbolizes both the journey and the destination, reflecting a musician’s life on tour and the broader human experience of searching for meaning and companionship.

Musically, “Highway Song” is characterized by its acoustic guitar foundation, enriched with vibrant harmonica interludes that complement the vocal melodies. The song’s structure and lyrical delivery create an intimate atmosphere, inviting listeners into a narrative that is both personal and universally accessible. This sound contrasts with more electric, full-band arrangements found in other tracks on the album like “Water Song,” which showcases the band’s instrumental prowess and complex compositions.

# 9 – I See The Light

“I See The Light” stands out as a pivotal track on Hot Tuna’s 1974 album, The Phosphorescent Rat. Recorded at Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco and skillfully produced by Mallory Earl, this song marks a significant evolution in Hot Tuna’s musical journey, moving from their earlier acoustic sets to a more robust, electric sound. As the second song on our list, it follows the opener with a continuation of deep, introspective themes, yet with an energized rock twist that showcases the band’s versatility.

The lyrics of “I See The Light” resonate with themes of revelation and personal growth, with lines like, “In this world I’m living in I see the light, Sins are gone, now I know what is wrong and right.” Such lyrics suggest a narrative of overcoming darkness and confusion, which metaphorically pushes back the night to welcome the clarity of morning. This journey from darkness to light not only represents personal enlightenment but also mirrors the band’s musical evolution from their roots in traditional blues to a more diverse and electrified sound.

Musically, the track is driven by Jorma Kaukonen’s expressive guitar play and Jack Casady’s solid bass lines, complemented by rich, layered instrumentation that adds depth to the song’s introspective lyrics. The composition combines elements of rock, blues, and a hint of folk, creating a sound that is distinctly Hot Tuna but accessible to a broader audience.

“I See The Light” serves as an excellent contrast to other songs in the Hot Tuna catalog, particularly when juxtaposed with more laid-back or purely acoustic numbers. For example, compared to the introspective acoustic vibes of earlier tracks like “Highway Song” from Burgers, “I See The Light” offers a more upbeat and electric expression of similar themes of journey and discovery.

# 8 – Angel Of Darkness

“Angel of Darkness” is the most recent Hot Tuna song to make this top 10 Hot Tuna song list. The song was released on the band’s 2011 album Steady As She Goes. It was only the second studio album the band had released since 1976. It also had been 11 years since they released their last album in 1990, entitled Pair A Dice Found. “Angel of Darkness” was the album’s opening track. Larry Campbell and Jorma Kaukonen wrote the song.

Larry Campbell also served as the album’s producer. Larry Campbell is a well-respected musician in the business, having toured with Bob Dylan for seven years. His experience working with artists such as Carly Simon, Paul Simon, and Sheryl Crow, among many others, brought a history of experience and electricity to the Steady As She Goes album.

The lyrics of “Angel of Darkness” delve into the themes of inner demons and the battle between light and darkness within oneself. Lines like “What kind of evil, baby, I don’t want to know / Would poison pure waters, just when they begin to flow” suggest a confrontation with profound internal conflicts. The song’s narrative voice seems to address someone on the brink, offering both a lament for their pain and a hopeful perspective for redemption: “Find your star, that’s who you are, and follow it home.” This lyric is emblematic of the song’s overarching message—encouraging resilience and self-discovery even amidst the darkest times.

Comparatively, “Angel of Darkness” can be juxtaposed with earlier Hot Tuna songs such as “I See The Light” from The Phosphorescent Rat. While “I See The Light” offers a more hopeful view on personal enlightenment, “Angel of Darkness” explores the more challenging aspects of human experience—acknowledging the darkness but also suggesting a path forward. Both songs utilize the blues structure to convey their messages but do so from different vantage points, showcasing the band’s range in addressing complex emotional landscapes through music.

# 7 – Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning

“Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” by Hot Tuna is a compelling rendition of a traditional gospel-blues song that has been a staple in their live performances since the early days of their career. This track, which appears on their 1971 live album First Pull Up, Then Pull Down, showcases the band’s deep roots in American blues and folk music. Recorded live at the Chateau Liberte in Los Gatos, California, this song captures the raw energy and mastery of Jorma Kaukonen’s guitar playing and Jack Casady’s bass performance, underpinned by the spirited drumming of Sammy Piazza.

The song’s lyrics, derived from a pre-war gospel-blues tradition, speak to the apocalyptic imagery of the biblical parable of the Wise Virgins, urging readiness and vigilance: “Keep your lamps trimmed and burning / the time is drawing nigh.” This message is delivered with a sense of urgency and spiritual fervor, emphasizing the need for spiritual preparedness and moral integrity. Hot Tuna’s version is particularly notable for its intense, almost hypnotic blues interpretation, with Kaukonen’s vocals lending a haunting quality that deeply resonates with the song’s thematic elements.

Musically, “Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” features a dynamic interplay between guitar and bass, creating a driving rhythm that enhances the song’s impassioned plea. The live recording adds an element of spontaneity and authenticity, capturing the band’s ability to connect with their audience through deeply rooted musical traditions and genuine performance energy.

Comparing this track to other songs in Hot Tuna’s repertoire, such as “I See The Light” or “Angel of Darkness,” “Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” stands out for its direct engagement with traditional blues and gospel elements. While “I See The Light” explores personal enlightenment and “Angel of Darkness” deals with internal struggles, “Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” calls for collective spiritual vigilance, making it a unique and powerful piece in their catalog.

This song not only highlights Hot Tuna’s skill in adapting traditional songs within a modern blues rock framework but also underscores their commitment to preserving and revitalizing the foundational American musical forms. “Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” serves as a vital link between the past and present, offering listeners a vibrant, living connection to the rich history of blues and gospel music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyB5mrButLg

# 6 – Sunrise Dance with the Devil

“Sunrise Dance with the Devil” is a track from Hot Tuna’s sixth studio album, Yellow Fever, released in November 1975. The album was recorded between June and August 1975 at Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco. Known for its blend of blues rock and hard rock, the album reflects the band’s versatility and depth in exploring complex musical and thematic territories. Produced by Hot Tuna and Mallory Earl, Yellow Fever showcases the band’s continued evolution and experimentation within the rock genre.

“Sunrise Dance with the Devil” is particularly notable for its vivid lyrical imagery and dynamic musical composition. The lyrics, rich with metaphoric expressions, explore themes of temptation and the metaphysical battles within oneself. Lines like “Time will come we’re gonna see things my way, maybe you won’t mind. When the heavenly spy elusively sneakn’ grabs you from behind” suggest a narrative of inevitable confrontation with one’s darker impulses or external forces that test one’s resolve and character.

The musical arrangement complements this theme effectively. It features a driving rhythm section and intricate guitar work that mirror the song’s exploration of internal conflict and the allure of the ‘devil’ or one’s darker side. The use of blues rock elements helps to underscore the emotional gravity of the lyrics, making the track a powerful piece within the album’s lineup.

Comparing “Sunrise Dance with the Devil” to other tracks on the album like “Bar Room Crystal Ball,” which also delves into introspection though with a different tone, “Sunrise Dance with the Devil” stands out for its intense narrative and thematic depth. The song uses the blues rock genre not just as a musical style but as a medium for storytelling, offering listeners a visceral experience of the protagonist’s journey through temptation and insight.

# 5 – Know Your Rider

“Know You Rider,” also widely known as “I Know You Rider,” performed by Hot Tuna, is a standout track from their Live at New Orleans House: Berkeley, CA 09/69 album. Released in April 2010, this album captures a live performance from September 1969 at the New Orleans House in Berkeley, California. The track showcases the raw acoustic blues prowess of Jorma Kaukonen on guitar and vocals, Jack Casady on bass guitar, and Will Scarlett on harmonica. This setting provides a stripped-back, intimate look at the band’s early sound, distinct from their later electric iterations.

The song itself is a traditional blues number that has been adapted and performed by various artists over the years, and Hot Tuna’s rendition is particularly notable for its vibrant acoustic arrangement. The lyrics of “I Know You Rider” reflect themes of longing and change, common in blues music: “I know you rider gonna miss me when I’m gone” and “Sun’s gonna shine on my back door some day.” These lines speak to a sense of inevitable departure and the hope of brighter days ahead, conveying deep emotional resonance through simple yet profound statements.

In their live performance, Hot Tuna brings a unique energy to “Know You Rider.” Kaukonen’s masterful guitar work and the soulful harmonica play by Scarlett enrich the song, turning it into a dynamic blues exploration. The interplay between the guitar and harmonica, along with Casady’s foundational bass lines, create a compelling musical narrative that reflects the song’s lyrical themes of travel, reflection, and personal transformation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYjZZ1o4ayA

# 4 – Hit Single #1

“Hit Single #1,” from Hot Tuna’s fifth studio album America’s Choice, exemplifies a significant transformation in the band’s musical direction. Recorded between September and October 1974 at Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco and released in May 1975, the album showcases the band’s shift towards a harder rock style, significantly influenced by the addition of drummer Bob Steeler. This move to a power trio format marked the beginning of what the band referred to as the “Rampage” trilogy, which includes the subsequent albums Yellow Fever and Hoppkorv.

Lyrically, “Hit Single #1” is steeped in the themes of freedom and visceral experience, which resonate through lines like “Every time I touch your face, I get a feelin’ in my shoes.” The song’s lyrics encourage living in the moment and embracing the physical sensations of life, “Jump back now, don’t let your feet go slow, You got to let your body sway.” This emphasis on movement and feeling echoes the album’s overall energy and Hot Tuna’s exploration of new sonic territories with a more robust, electrifying approach.

Musically, the track is characterized by its driving rhythm and gritty guitar riffs, which align with the hard rock orientation of America’s Choice. The album’s intent for listeners to experience the music at full volume, as stated humorously on the album cover, is palpable in the raw and dynamic execution of this song. The powerful interplay between Kaukonen’s guitar and Casady’s bass, combined with Steeler’s aggressive drumming, creates an immersive sonic experience that captures the band’s renewed energy and rock-oriented focus during this period.

In comparison to other tracks on the album, such as “Sleep Song” and “Bar Room Crystal Ball,” “Hit Single #1” stands out for its straightforward rock vibe and anthemic quality. It not only encapsulates the album’s hard rock ethos but also serves as a bridge to the band’s exploration of even more stylized rock forms in their later works.

# 3 – True Religion

“True Religion” from Hot Tuna’s 1972 album Burgers captures the band’s acoustic roots intertwined with deep blues influences. This track stands out as an evocative blend of traditional blues and folk themes, driven by Jorma Kaukonen’s intricate fingerstyle guitar playing and soulful vocals. Recorded at Wally Heider Studios in San Francisco and produced by the band along with Mallory Earl, the album Burgers showcases Hot Tuna’s versatility in transitioning between electric and acoustic arrangements, with “True Religion” being a poignant example of their acoustic prowess.

The song’s lyrics are deeply rooted in spiritual and existential themes, reflecting on mortality and the need for spiritual redemption. The repetition of the lines “Momma take the pillow from under my head, now / Allelu,” and the haunting refrain “Then you’ll need that true religion, Allelu,” evoke traditional gospel music’s call-and-response style, bringing a solemn yet comforting perspective on facing life’s ultimate truths. The use of “Allelu” at the end of each line reinforces the spiritual urgency and adds a layer of gospel music authenticity to the performance.

Musically, “True Religion” is stripped down yet powerful. Kaukonen’s guitar work is both technical and expressive, providing a rich acoustic backdrop that complements the lyrical content’s solemnity. The interplay between his guitar and Jack Casady’s bass creates a full, resonant sound that underscores the song’s meditative quality.

Comparing “True Religion” to other tracks on Burgers, such as “Highway Song” or “Sea Child,” the song offers a more introspective and traditional approach. While tracks like “Highway Song” carry a lighter, more rambling blues-rock feel, “True Religion” delves deeper into the roots of American folk and blues, presenting a stark exploration of life’s deeper spiritual dimensions.

In the broader context of Hot Tuna’s discography, “True Religion” serves as a bridge between their electric and acoustic expressions, exemplifying their ability to convey profound emotional and spiritual narratives through both music styles. This song not only highlights their musical adaptability but also their deep reverence for the blues tradition, making it a crucial piece in understanding their approach to American roots music.

# 2 – Hesitation Blues

“Hesitation Blues” is one of Hot Tuna’s most emblematic songs, exemplifying their ability to blend traditional blues with their own unique acoustic style. This track is featured prominently on their 1970 debut album, Hot Tuna, recorded live at the New Orleans House in Berkeley, California. The song’s live performance captures the raw and intimate atmosphere that Hot Tuna is known for, particularly in their early years when they primarily focused on acoustic sets.

The lyrics of “Hesitation Blues” are traditional, having been covered by many artists in various styles, but Hot Tuna’s version is particularly notable for its blend of humor and melancholy, classic to the blues genre. The opening lines, “Well, nickel is a nickel, I said, dime is a dime, I need a new gal, she won’t mind,” set a playful tone that carries throughout the song. The recurring question, “Tell me how long do I have to wait? Can I get you now, I said, must I hesitate?” speaks to the theme of longing and the frustration of unrequited desires, a sentiment echoed throughout the blues tradition.

Jorma Kaukonen’s expert fingerpicking guitar style and Jack Casady’s deep, melodic bass playing create a dynamic and engaging musical experience. The addition of Will Scarlett’s harmonica adds a raw edge to the performance, enhancing the bluesy feel. Kaukonen’s vocal delivery, authentic and expressive, perfectly conveys the song’s playful yet plaintive lyrics.

Comparatively, “Hesitation Blues” contrasts with other Hot Tuna songs like “True Religion” from Burgers, which carries a more solemn and reflective tone. While “True Religion” explores spiritual themes and existential questions, “Hesitation Blues” revels in the everyday emotional trials and tribulations of love and life, imbued with a sense of humor and immediacy that is palpable in its live performance.

# 1 -TIE – Death Don’t Have No Mercy / Keep On Truckin

This haunting song defines the blues aspect of Hot Tuna in its most compelling form. It’s hard to listen to and soothing at the same time. The song was released on the band’s debut album entitled Hot Tuna. The album was released in 1970. The Hot Tuna song “Death Don’t Have No Mercy” was not an original composition by the band. The song was written by The Reverend Gary Davis, a blind blues singer born in the South in 1896. “Keep On Truckin” was released on the Burgers album. Bob Carleton wrote the song. It’s about as classic Hot Tuna as one can get.

Updated September 7, 2024

Top 10 Hot Tuna Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024