Introduction

The Legend of John Henry’s Hammer is a classic American folk song that tells the story of John Henry, a legendary African American railroad worker who became famous for his strength and endurance. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and has become a staple of American music.

History

The origins of the song are unclear, but it is believed to have been written in the late 19th or early 20th century. The story of John Henry has been passed down through generations of African American railroad workers and was first recorded in the 1920s by folklorist Guy Johnson. The song has since been recorded by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan.

Lyrics

Below are the lyrics to The Legend of John Henry’s Hammer:

When John Henry was a little baby
Sittin' on his mama's knee
He picked up a hammer and a little piece of steel
Said, "Hammer's gonna be the death of me, Lord, Lord
Hammer's gonna be the death of me"

The captain said to John Henry
"Gonna bring that steam drill 'round
Gonna bring that steam drill out on the job
Gonna whop that steel on down, Lord, Lord
Gonna whop that steel on down"

John Henry told his captain
"A man ain't nothin' but a man
But before I let your steam drill beat me down
I'll die with a hammer in my hand, Lord, Lord
I'll die with a hammer in my hand"

John Henry said to his shaker
"Shaker, why don't you sing?
I'm throwin' thirty pounds from my hips on down
Just listen to that cold steel ring, Lord, Lord
Listen to that cold steel ring"

The man that invented the steam drill
Thought he was mighty fine
But John Henry made his fifteen feet
The steam drill only made nine, Lord, Lord
The steam drill only made nine

John Henry hammered in the mountains
His hammer was striking fire
But he worked so hard, he broke his poor heart
He laid down his hammer and he died, Lord, Lord
He laid down his hammer and he died

John Henry had a little woman
Her name was Polly Ann
John Henry took sick and he had to go to bed
Polly Ann drove steel like a man, Lord, Lord
Polly Ann drove steel like a man

Conclusion

The Legend of John Henry’s Hammer is a powerful and enduring American folk song that tells the story of a legendary figure who stood up against the forces of progress and technology. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.