Red Wing (song)

"Red Wing" is a popular American song composed in 1907 by Kerry Mills, with lyrics by Thurland Chattaway. It is a sentimental ballad, evoking a romanticized image of Native American life.

The song tells the story of a "Red Wing," a young Native American maiden, and her love for a brave. The lyrics describe her beauty, particularly her red wing (likely a reference to a headdress or a feather) and the sadness brought on by her brave's departure. The song implies that he has gone away and she waits hopefully for his return.

"Red Wing" was a major hit in the early 20th century and became a standard in barbershop quartet repertoire and amateur music-making. Its melody is simple and memorable, and its lyrics, while considered stereotypical and potentially offensive by modern standards, captured a romanticized view of Native Americans popular at the time. The song's success spawned numerous recordings and performances.

Over time, "Red Wing" has been adapted and reinterpreted in various ways, including instrumental versions and parodies. Despite its historical context and the problematic nature of its representation of Native Americans, the song remains a recognizable tune, often associated with Americana and nostalgia for a bygone era. The melody has also been used as the basis for various adaptations and parodies in popular culture.