S.O.D. "Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport" by Rolf Harris

11/21/2015     There is a wobble board in this song and its strange sound is constant throughout.  It is a musical instrument invented by Harris.  This 1960 pop/folk release topped the Australian charts and is one of the most successful and well known tunes to emerge from the continent.  Harris recorded a 1963 and 2000 version as well, which also charted well.  

     Harry Belafonte's album, "Calypsos", inspired the song which has to do with a stockman who is at home in his bed, about to die.  His mates are gathered 'round him for his final words.  Most important to him is his livestock, which he asks to be looked after and to tie down his kangaroo so it doesn't hop away.  A similar tune was written in 1905 by Banjo Patterson called "The Dying Stockman".

     The Stockman's last wish  is to "Tan me hide when I'm dead Fred".  His mates do as he asks and reply, "So we tanned his hide when he died Clyde, and that's it hanging on the shed.  A bit graphic without meaning to be.