The Death of John Henry

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When the people out west heard of John Henry's death
Couldn′t hardly stay in bed
Monday morning on the east bound train
Going where John Henry fell dead, Lord, Lord
Going where John Henry fell dead

They carried John Henry to the graveyard
They looked at him good and long
The very last words his wife said to him
My husband he′s dead and gone, Lord, Lord
My husband he′s dead and gone

John Henry's wife wore a brand new dress
It all was trimmеd in blue
The very last words shе said to him
Honey I been true to you, Lord, Lord
Honey I been true to you

John Henry told the Shaker
Lord shake while I sing
Throwing nine pounds from my hips on down
Bound to hear her when she rings, Lord, Lord
Bound to hear her when she rings

John Henry told his captain
I'm Tennessee man
Before I would see that steam drill beat me down
I die with a hammer in my hand, Lord, Lord
I die with a hammer in my hand

John Henry hammered in the mountain
Till his hammer caught on fire
Very last words that I heard him say
Cool drink of water 'fore I die, Lord, Lord
Cool drink of water 'fore I die

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Transcribed from the CD 15APR2024, caj