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Bobbie Gentry Reveals Message Behind 'Ode'

uncredited writer, KRLA Beat, 26 August 1967

WHO KILLED Billy Joe McAllister? Or did he jump? What was thrown off that bridge? And why? These are just some of the questions raised by a controversial new song called 'Ode to Billy Joe' written by a young Southern girl, Bobbie Gentry. The record is unique; a narrative rather than a song, beautifully depicting life in a small southern town.

Total word count of piece: 693

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