Can’t You See (Live) – The Marshall Tucker Band | Top 40 Chart Performance, Story and Song Meaning
Chart Performance: Pop (#75); 1977
Story Behind The Song By Ed Osborne
Unbeknownst to Toy Caldwell, a broken amplifier was to play a key role in his band’s ascendancy to fame. The amp belonged to Alabama rockers Wet Willie, who were scheduled to play in Spartanburg, South Carolina, home base of Toy’s group, The Toy Factory.
So when WW’s amp failed during sound check, the club’s owner called upon Toy for a replacement. A guest guitar solo by Toy during Wet Willie’s set prompted an invitation to come play for label execs at Grant’s Lounge in Macon, GA.
One night, while rehearsing for their big gig, one of Toy Factory’s members found a key ring on the floor. On it was written “Marshall Tucker” after the blind piano tuner who previously used the space. The newly christened band turned in an impressive performance, and were on their way.
Can’t You See, a long-time staple of Toy Factory sets, succeeded in a live version included on MTB’s Searchin’ For A Rainbow album.
This content and all Song Meaning articles were created and written by Top 40 Contributing Editor Ed Osborne. © 2024 Ed Osborne. All Rights Reserved. In addition to these song meaning articles, Ed has written our “Year in Music 1960s-1990s” articles.
Produced by:
- Paul Hornsby
Lyrics Written by:
- Toy Caldwell
Ed Osborne
Hi. I got my first record at age two and never looked back, spending a decades-long career in radio and the music business. Even after years of reading about and listening to all types of music, I am still fascinated by it. Apart from that, I’m endlessly intrigued by art, nature, and the inner lives of people (and dogs).