The One on the Right Is on the Left

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Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".Template:Main other "The One on the Right Is on the Left" is a country song written by Jack Clement. It was recorded by Johnny Cash on November 29, 1965, and included on his novelty album Everybody Loves a Nut (1966). It was the album's third and most successful single (see 1966 in music), reaching #2 on the U.S. Billboard Country Singles chart and #46 on BillboardTemplate:'s Pop Singles chart.

Content

The song is a humorous criticism of musicians that put their political views into their music. It tells the story of a folk song group that is "long on musical ability", but ultimately breaks up due to political differences. At the end of the song, a warning is given not to mix politics with one's music.

The punch line to the joke is that "the guy in the rear", is less easily labeled: he is a Methodist and he burned his driver's license (rather than his draft card), etc. Indeed, the song closes by stating that he got drafted.

Track listings

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Chart performance

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Chart (1966) Peak
position
Canadian RPM Top Singles 35

Cover versions

Noel Harrison sang the song on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour on June 11, 1967.[1] They ended the song by pointing out they had no "guy in the rear" and walked off.[2]

References

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External links

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