The Evolution of Countercultural Phrases: From LeRoi Jones to Jeffery Jeff Walker

Introduction

In the evolution of countercultural language and phrases, one cannot avoid the colorful and provocative 'Up Against the Wall.' This phrase, originally featured in the poem 'Black People' by LeRoi Jones (now Amiri Baraka), has since been adapted and popularized in various forms of music and literature. This article explores the rich history and impact of this phrase, tracing its origins back to its usage in LeRoi Jones's poem before delving into its adaptations in songs by Jefferson Airplane and Jerry Jeff Walker.

LeRoi Jones - "Black People" (1965)

LeRoi Jones, a prominent figure in the Black Arts Movement, first used the phrase 'Up Against the Wall' in his poem 'Black People.' Originally written in 1965, this poem was a clarion call to African American communities and a reflection of the tumultuous social and political context of the 1960s. The poem addressed the struggle for liberation and the resilience of the Black community in the face of systemic oppression.

Original lines from 'Black People':
And all your private property is target for your enemy
Your enemy is where the target is
Up against the wall motherfucker
Tear down the walls
Tear down the walls

Jefferson Airplane - "We Can Be Together" (1969)

Inspired by the Black Panther Movement and the use of the phrase 'Up Against the Wall,' Jefferson Airplane incorporated the slogan into their song 'We Can Be Together.' Released in 1969 as part of their album 'Volunteers,' the song was a rallying cry for unity and community action. The lyrics showcase the raw power and emotional resonance of the phrase.

One stanza from 'We Can Be Together':
All your private property is target for your enemy
Your enemy is where the target is
Up against the wall motherfucker
Tear down the walls
Tear down the walls

Paul Kantner, the main songwriter for Jefferson Airplane, was influenced by the rhetoric of the Black Panther's slogans and the writings of various countercultural groups. It’s believed that his inspiration came from a pamphlet of 'The Motherfuckers,' a situationalist anarchy political group. However, the phrase's usage in countercultural circles was already widespread during that time.

Jerry Jeff Walker - "Up Against the Wall Redneck Mother" (1973)

Jerry Jeff Walker's 1973 song "Up Against the Wall Redneck Mother" further popularized the usage of the phrase. Walker, who was a part of the Greenwich Village folk scene in the early 1960s, was likely aware of LeRoi Jones's poem and its influential phrases. His adaptation of the phrase in his song underscores the adaptability and resilience of countercultural language.

One stanza from "Up Against the Wall Redneck Mother":
Up against the wall redneck mother
Up against the wall redneck mother
Tear down the walls
Tear down the walls

Walker’s song is a reflection of the broader social and political movements of the 1970s, in which the phrase 'Up Against the Wall' became a powerful symbol of resistance and defiance.

Conclusion

The phrase 'Up Against the Wall' has evolved over time, from its roots in LeRoi Jones's 'Black People' to its usage in various forms of music and literature. Its powerful and evocative nature has made it a lasting symbol of countercultural resistance and social justice. The journey of this phrase showcases the dynamic and ever-changing nature of cultural language and its impact on social and political discourse.

References

- LeRoi Jones (Amiri Baraka), 'Black People' (1965) - Jefferson Airplane, 'We Can Be Together' (1969) - Jerry Jeff Walker, 'Up Against the Wall Redneck Mother' (1973)