(colloquial) on the popular or apparently winning side, as in a n election. The expression comes from the fact that, in the mid-nineteenth century, it was customary in the United States, especially in the southern states, for a band to play on a wagon through the streets to advertise a forthcoming meeting, political or otherwise. At electiontime local leaders would show their support of a candidate by climbing on the wagon and riding with the band. —HDA Tapes (Oakland Lectures) Approved Glossary (16.4.92)