About the song
Ah, a rather intriguing pairing we have here: Sheryl Crow & Kid Rock with their somewhat unexpected yet compelling mashup of “Up Around the Bend” and “Picture”. This collaboration, which emerged in the early 2000s, offers a fascinating study in contrasts and harmonies, blending the rock sensibilities of Crow with Kid Rock’s country-tinged rock swagger. For those of us who appreciate a bit of genre-bending and a fresh take on familiar tunes, this medley provides a unique listening experience.
“Up Around the Bend”, of course, is a classic Creedence Clearwater Revival anthem, a quintessential road song brimming with restless energy and the promise of discovery. Its driving beat and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals evoke a sense of freedom and the allure of the open road. Juxtaposing this with “Picture”, Kid Rock’s poignant ballad about longing and regret, initially featuring Sheryl Crow on the studio version, creates an interesting dynamic. The themes of journeying and reflection, of looking forward and looking back, intertwine in this unexpected combination.
Sheryl Crow’s presence in this live rendition, often stepping in for the studio version’s vocalists, brings a layer of her signature blend of rock, country, and pop sensibilities to the mix. Her voice, with its slightly raspy edge and undeniable warmth, complements Kid Rock’s more gravelly delivery in a way that adds both grit and melodic richness to the performance. It’s a testament to their individual artistry that they can weave these seemingly disparate songs into a cohesive and engaging whole.
The medley often begins with the driving energy of “Up Around the Bend”, immediately grabbing the listener’s attention with its familiar and infectious rhythm. As the song progresses, the transition into “Picture” is often seamless, the change in tempo and mood creating a moment of introspection. Kid Rock’s heartfelt delivery of the ballad’s lyrics, often tinged with a sense of remorse and longing, provides a stark contrast to the earlier exuberance. Sheryl Crow’s harmonies and occasional lead vocals during “Picture” add a layer of emotional depth, her voice carrying a sense of empathy and understanding.
For those of us who have followed their careers, this collaboration highlights the versatility of both Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock. Crow, known for her strong songwriting and genre-fluid approach, demonstrates her ability to adapt and blend with different musical styles. Kid Rock, often associated with a more raucous persona, reveals a more vulnerable side in “Picture” and finds a compelling synergy with Crow’s musicality.
This unexpected pairing of “Up Around the Bend” and “Picture” isn’t just a novelty; it’s a testament to the power of music to transcend genre boundaries and create new and interesting interpretations of familiar songs. It speaks to the shared human experiences of yearning, reflection, and the journey through life, whether it’s the literal journey on an open road or the more introspective journey of the heart. This medley remains a memorable example of how artists can surprise and engage their audiences by creatively recontextualizing their own work and the work of others.
Video
Lyrics
Living my life in a slow hell
Different girl every night at the hotel
I ain’t seen the sunshine in three damn days
Been fueling up on cocaine and whisky
Wish I had a good girl to miss me
Lord, I wonder if I’ll ever change my ways
I put your picture away
Sat down and cried today
I can’t look at you while I’m lying next to her
I put your picture away
Sat down and cried today
I can’t look at you while I’m lying next to her (ooh ooh ooh)
I called you last night in the hotel
Everyone knows, but they won’t tell
But their half-hearted smiles tell me something
Just ain’t right
I’ve been waiting on you for a long time
Fueling up on heartaches and cheap wine
I ain’t heard from you in three damn nights
I put your picture away
I wonder where you’ve been
I can’t look at you while I’m lyin’ next to him (ooh ooh ooh)
I put your picture away
I wonder where you’ve been
I can’t look at you while I’m lyin’ next to him (ooh)
I saw ya yesterday with an old friend
It was the same old same, how have you been>
Since you’ve been gone my world’s been
Dark and grey
You reminded me of brighter days
I hoped you were coming home to stay
I was headed to church
I was off to drink you away
I thought about you for a long time
Can’t seem to get you off my mind
I can’t understand why we’re living
Life this way
I found your picture today
I swear I’ll change my ways
I just called to say I want you
To come back home (ooh ooh ooh)
I found your picture today
I swear I’ll change my ways
I just called to say I want you
To come back home
I just called to say I love you
Come back home
