"Ko-Ko Joe" is a song penned and performed by American country artist Jerry Reed. Released in August 1971 as the lead single from his album of the same name, it quickly climbed the charts, reaching number 11 on the U.S. country chart and number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100. Following the success of his previous hit, "When You're Hot, You're Hot," this song continued Reed's streak of chart-topping tunes.
The song paints a vivid picture of Ko-Ko Joe, a man living in "cottonmouth country" along the banks of the Etowah River. Described as a long-haired, rugged survivalist, Ko-Ko Joe is ostracized by the locals who view him as an eccentric outcast. Despite their disdain, Ko-Ko Joe's true character shines through in a moment of crisis.
In a reminiscent twist of Hank Williams' classic "Be Careful of Stones That You Throw," the song recounts a fateful day when the river's dam burst, wreaking havoc on the community. Amidst the chaos, Ko-Ko Joe emerges as a hero, rescuing a young boy from the floodwaters and saving his life.
So, enjoy the clip above which features Glenn Campbell and Larry McNeely joining Jerry Reed for a performance of the tune in 1971!
