Red Bandana
Randy Newman · Other Songs - Randy Newman
Left Los Angeles a short while ago
Flew 'cross the country back to Buffalo
Walked around through the sleet and the snow
With a red bandana on my head
Saw my momma on 12th and Grand
Standing in the alley with the junkyard man
They were both so loaded they could hardly stand
Talkin' 'bout going to Mexico
I said "Momma I was born
Out there I was born again
Been clear to California and back
Was out there so long many times I thought I was dead"
She said, "Sonny what's that you got wrapped around your head?"
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's from Hollywood USA
Looked for the woman I used to love
Seen her in a bar off the Harlem road
Talking in a booth with Charley Hobbs
And this ugly little dude whom I didn't know
She said "Honey you're back I'm so glad
When you was gone I was so sad
You come in here lookin' so bad
With that red bandana on your head
With that red bandana on your head"
Yes! It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
And it's red just like your blood is
Flew 'cross the country back to Buffalo
Walked around through the sleet and the snow
With a red bandana on my head
Saw my momma on 12th and Grand
Standing in the alley with the junkyard man
They were both so loaded they could hardly stand
Talkin' 'bout going to Mexico
I said "Momma I was born
Out there I was born again
Been clear to California and back
Was out there so long many times I thought I was dead"
She said, "Sonny what's that you got wrapped around your head?"
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's from Hollywood USA
Looked for the woman I used to love
Seen her in a bar off the Harlem road
Talking in a booth with Charley Hobbs
And this ugly little dude whom I didn't know
She said "Honey you're back I'm so glad
When you was gone I was so sad
You come in here lookin' so bad
With that red bandana on your head
With that red bandana on your head"
Yes! It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
It's a Red Bandana
And it's red just like your blood is
Red Bandana
Randy Newman's "Red Bandana" stands as a quintessential example of his signature style, blending sharp social commentary with a catchy, upbeat melody. Released in 1971, the track serves as a satirical take on the commercialization of the American flag, using the red bandana as a metaphor for the flag's misuse by the public. Newman's distinctive vocal delivery and witty lyrics deliver a biting critique of patriotism and consumer culture, characteristic of his work during the early 1970s. The song remains a staple of his discography, reflecting his ability to address serious political themes while maintaining an accessible, pop-oriented sound that has ensured its enduring popularity.