Black Betty

Get ready for Ram Jam's explosive 1977 hard rock anthem, "Black Betty"! Known for its unforgettable guitar riff and relentless drive, this blues-rock fueled track remains a high-energy classic rock staple. Experience the raw power of one of the 70s' most iconic rock singles.

Ram Jam's 1977 hit version of "Black Betty" transformed an older folk tune into a blistering hard rock and blues-rock powerhouse. Based on an arrangement by guitarist Bill Bartlett, the track is propelled by a thunderous beat and arguably one of rock's most recognizable guitar riffs. Its raw energy and straightforward structure captured the essence of 70s guitar rock, making it an instant smash hit worldwide for the band.

This 1977 single remains Ram Jam’s signature song and an enduring hard rock classic with clear blues-rock lineage. Its immediate impact has never faded, securing it a permanent place on classic rock radio playlists and popular culture. The track's high-octane performance and memorable hook guarantee its continued popularity at sporting events and anywhere needing a jolt of pure rock energy, showcasing its timeless appeal decades later.

SONG MEANING: The meaning of "Black Betty" is debated due to its origins as an 18th-century African-American work song, later recorded by artists like Lead Belly. "Black Betty" has been interpreted variously as referring to a whip used by prison guards or overseers, a musket (whose stock was often black), a bottle of whiskey, or sometimes a formidable woman. Ram Jam's rock version focuses on the driving energy, inheriting the historical ambiguity of the original folk lyrics.