The Meaning Behind The Song: Fee by Phish

Serving as the opening track of Phish’s 1989 debut studio album Junta, “Fee” has been a fan favorite since its debut on August 9th, 1987. While it was initially a regular feature in the band’s live shows, it became more of a rarity in the mid-90s. However, its catchy and accessible nature has always resonated with fans.

As a Phish fan, “Fee” holds a special place in my heart. The song’s narrative lyrics tell a classic love story between a weasel named Fee and a chimpanzee named Floyd, who are competing for the affection of an aging gospel singer named Milly Grace. While the story may seem whimsical and lighthearted, it touches on deeper themes of desire, jealousy, and the pursuit of freedom.

The character of Fee represents a Buddhist prodigy seeking spiritual enlightenment and freedom. He sees Milly as his pathway to liberation. Floyd, on the other hand, represents the destructive and possessive nature of jealousy. His love for Milly drives him to desperate measures, like breaking a bottle and causing harm to Fee.

Milly becomes the catalyst for the resolution of this love triangle. Frustrated with Floyd’s behavior, she stands up for herself and retaliates by throwing a nectarine at him. Eventually, Floyd meets his demise when Milly threatens him with a tiny piece of paper, causing him to lose his grip and fall into the water where sharks await.

The song’s chorus, repeated throughout, serves as a reminder to Fee to take a moment to pause and catch his breath in the midst of his reckless pursuit of freedom. It encourages him to savor the present moment rather than constantly racing and flirting with danger.

What I find most compelling about “Fee” is how Phish combines playful storytelling with deeper philosophical themes. The song’s lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own desires for freedom, the sometimes destructive nature of jealousy, and the importance of finding balance in life.

Aside from the lyrical content, the song’s unique vocal effects add to its charm. In the studio version, Trey Anastasio’s vocals were recorded by playing them through a set of headphones and then capturing the sound with a microphone. This gives his voice a distinctive quality that is also recreated in live performances using a megaphone.

Overall, “Fee” captures the essence of Phish’s ability to blend catchy melodies, thought-provoking lyrics, and improvisational musicality. Its enduring popularity among fans speaks to its universal themes and the band’s skill in crafting memorable songs.

So, the next time you find yourself racing with the wind or flirting with danger, take a moment to have a cup of coffee and catch your breath, just like Fee.