Marketplace

My name is Tom Cranker

Fans of Woody Guthrie will doubtless be familiar with his classic, The Jolly Banker, which lampooned lenders more than 70 years ago. His words seem particulalry apropos today.

When your car you’re losin’, and sadly your cruisin’, I’m a jolly banker, jolly banker am I. I’ll come and forclose, get your car and your clothes, Singin’ I’m jolly banker, jolly banker am I.

So apropos that Chicago rockers Wilco have recorded a version.

Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy talked with Marketplace host Kai Ryssdal today about why Wilco decided to record a version of the song.

You can listen to Wilco’s song (and Woody’s original) on our website. Or you can download the Wilco track from the bank’s website. They’re asking downloaders to categorize themselves first, of course.

Thanks for the track. I’m happy to support the Woody Guthrie Foundation and Archives. (Suggested minimum donation: two bucks.)

Sorry, I’m unemployed / underemployed or otherwise broke. I’ll download the track and I’ll make it up to you later, I promise.

I am/was a banker/hedge fund manager/credit default swap trader. I know times are tough, but I’m just fine thank you. (Suggested minimum donation $100.00)

• Apr 30, 2009 2:14 PM — Paddy Hirsch
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