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Chopper Read

by Traditional Graffiti

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about

One of Australia's most notorious modern villains. He tattooed his life of crime all over his body, and cut his own ear off. Violent man, who became a bit of a celebrity on the entertainment circuit.

lyrics

Capo second - DADGAD
D F C D
In a world of heavy villains I’m an evil man indeed
D C D
I’ve killed for sheer enjoyment and I’ve robbed for simple greed
F C E D
I’ve done the crime I’ve served my time my name is…Chopper Reade.

In clubs and pubs and hotel bars my face is widely known
I dished out fear and violence as history books have shown
Standover man, the violent hand, you’ll reap…what you have sown

In Pentridge gaol I was sent down for all my wicked deeds
I was cut down repeatedly and by God they made me bleed
But by my breath I cheated death they can’t kill…Chopper Reade

I took no crap from any man cell mate or prison guard
I stood my ground I wore them down by Christ I was bloody hard
Inside my cell I gave them hell my life was …bloody charmed

I cut my ear off with a shiv to show that I could bleed
My body tattooed head to toe spoke of my wicked deeds
No art I know, I’m not Van Gogh, my name is …Chopper Reade

Now there’s them ‘as committed murder and worshipped villainy
The Kelly Gang and Bold Ben Hall, Jack Donaghue were three
No contest, I must confess the best is…Chopper Read!

They made a film about me and I met celebrities
I’ve been interviewed in newspapers, on radio and TV
I am well known, I’m in your home, my name is…Chopper Reade

Now all you that hear these words this warning take by me
There is no hope for murderers or honour among thieves
It’s in my book, be sure to look,
I’m in your home when you’re alone,
In your head, beneath your bed,
Your kids know me I’m on TV my name is…Chopper Read

Open – 2-4 4 – 7 – 9 - 7
Oh mother, can you hear me,
7-5 4 – 5 -7
I did it all, just for you
Oh father, are you near me
5 7-5 open.
I’m your big boy, stout and true

credits

released June 29, 2014
Ian 'the Pump' Macintosh - Vocals, guitar

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

Traditional Graffiti image

Traditional Graffiti Sydney, Australia

Formally performing as the Wheeze & Suck Band,
Ian 'The Pump' Macintosh, Johnny 'Red Tips' Milce, and Nigel 'Muddy' Walters formed the Traditional Graffiti Band in 2018 to continue and expand upon the Wheezer's music and performance style. ... more

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