Traction Blues

Please note: the following are fan-transcribed lyrics from the 1990s; transcribed from Spin Doctors live tapes; taken as-is from the original “Spin Doctors Information Page” (defunct since 2001).

If you are willing to re-visit this (or another) song to improve the quality of this transcript, feel free to do so and let us know about it. Thanks!

(transcribed from 10/8/92 Livingston Gym & Court Tavern 8/16/91)

The coffee at the hospital

was a low-down nasty sludge

I got 19 compound fractures and

I’m talking to the judge

And if that judge don’t bust you,

I’ll take you to the one that will

‘Cause I would not be in traction if I did not fall in love

Call me a dumbell, call me a spoiled slug,

I tumbled down your staircase,

and I’m taking you to court.

If that court don’t bust you, mama,

I’ll take you to the one that will

‘Cause I would not be in traction if I did not fall in love

(Oh no!)

I would not be on my feet,

I swear by god above.

My arm and first 3 fingers

are in a plaster glove

I would not be in traction if I did not fall in love

If that cop don’t bust you baby,

I’ll take you to the one that will.

‘Cause I would not be in traction if I did not fall in love

The coffee at the hospital

was a low-down nasty sludge

I got 19 compound fractures, baby

talkin’ to the judge

If that judge don’t bust you, mama

I’ll take you to the one that will

But I would not be in traction if I did not fall in love

Lyrics used by permission