Tom Waits Releases New Version of “Get Behind the Mule”: Stream

The post Tom Waits Releases New Version of “Get Behind the Mule”: Stream appeared first on Consequence .

Tom Waits is celebrating the 25th anniversary of his 13th studio album, Mule Variations . To help mark the occasion, the reclusive rocker has released a new version of the fourth track, “Get Behind the Mule.” Stream it below.

A stripped-down take on the song, “Get Behind the Mule (Spiritual)” features Waits solely accompanied by a Wurlitzer, adding a new dimension to the ominous tale of murder and going on the run.

Mule Variations arrived in April 1999 via Epitaph Records sister label ANTI- Records, which was formed specifically to release the album. It won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album, with the third track “Hold On” receiving a nomination for Best Male Rock Performance.

“I am filled with gratitude for Tom Waits and his album, Mule Variations , which didn’t just start our label; it sparked a lasting partnership built on trust, creativity, and a love for pushing artistic boundaries,” Epitaph Founder and CEO Brett Gurewitz said in a statement.

ANTI- President Andy Kaulkin added, “I’ve personally been a major Tom Waits fan for as long as I can remember. We started the label to release his music. Tom’s embodiment of the spirit of artistic authenticity and resilience was our north star when we started out, and his unparalleled creativity continues to inspire and drive everything we do.”

Toward the end of 2023, Waits was more active than he had been in quite some time. In addition to joining Iggy Pop on an episode of his radio show, he penned a tribute to Shane MacGowan and made a rare public appearance to present Nicolas Cage with a lifetime achievement honor at the SFFILM Awards Night.

Tom Waits Releases New Version of “Get Behind the Mule”: Stream
Eddie Fu