JB Lenoir's "A Whale Swallowed Me" is a powerful song that showcases the late singer's incredible talent as a songwriter and performer. Released in 1966, the song features Lenoir's soulful vocals accompanied by his own acoustic guitar, creating a stripped-down yet emotionally charged sound.
The song's opening lyrics read "They say the Whale swallowed Jonah, Out in the deep blue sea. Sometimes I get that feeling, That same old Whale has swallowed me." These lines paint a vivid picture of a man lost and struggling to find his way back to the surface.
Throughout his career, Lenoir was known for his topical and conscious lyrics and his willingness to tackle controversial topics like the Korean & Vietnam wars. He was a powerful voice in the civil rights movement, and his music often addressed issues of racial injustice and inequality. Lenoir's influence can be heard in the work of countless blues and rock musicians who came after him.
Enjoy his live performance of this classic, Biblically influenced blues tune, fully colorized for your viewing pleasure!