Johnny Horton - Battle of New Orleans (1959) In the late 1950s, Johnny Horton's "Battle of New Orleans" emerged as a vibrant retelling of a significant American historical event. Penned by Jimmy Driftwood, the song narrates the Battle of New Orleans from an American soldier's perspective with a mix of historical accuracy and whimsy. Its mention of using an alligator as a cannon adds humor to the grave war scenario. Horton's spirited rendition takes listeners through the battle's tensions and tri