About the song
Janis Joplin, the iconic queen of rock and roll, needs no introduction. Her raw, unbridled vocals and electrifying stage presence captivated audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. Among her extensive repertoire of bluesy rock anthems and soulful ballads, “Long Black Train” stands out as a particularly poignant and haunting masterpiece.
A Song Steeped in Blues Tradition
“Long Black Train” is a traditional folk song, dating back to the 19th century, with various versions circulating across Appalachia. Joplin’s rendition, recorded in 1970 for her album Pearl, draws heavily from the blues tradition, infusing the song with a deep sense of emotional turmoil and despair. The song’s opening notes, a mournful harmonica solo, set the somber mood, perfectly capturing the essence of the lyrics.
A Lyrical Journey Through Love and Loss
Joplin’s powerful vocals weave a tale of love and loss, painting vivid imagery of a heartbroken woman watching her lover board a departing train. The train, a symbol of the inevitable passage of time and the fleeting nature of love, carries away her hopes and dreams, leaving her behind in a desolate state of despair.
A Haunting Melody that Resonates with the Soul
The melody of “Long Black Train” is as haunting as its lyrics. The slow, melancholic tempo mirrors the protagonist’s heavy heart, while the repetitive structure emphasizes the song’s central theme of loss and longing. Joplin’s vocals, infused with raw emotion, perfectly capture the song’s despair, creating a palpable sense of anguish that resonates deeply with listeners.
A Timeless Classic that Endures
“Long Black Train” has become a timeless classic, revered by music lovers and critics alike. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to capture the universal human experiences of love, loss, and heartbreak. Joplin’s soulful rendition, with its raw vocals and haunting melody, has solidified the song’s place in music history as a masterpiece of blues balladry.
A Song that Continues to Move Audiences
To this day, “Long Black Train” continues to move audiences with its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery. Joplin’s passionate performance serves as a testament to her vocal prowess and her ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its power to touch the human soul and evoke deep emotions.
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Lyrics
Here comes that long black train, Lord
Right by my back door again
Here comes that long black train
Right by my back door again
Now, that’s the same old train, now
Took my two best friends
Lord, that train start off slowly
My tears: they keep streaming down
Lord, that train start off slowly
My tears keep streaming down
I cried, “Oh, Lord, why was I left
In this godforsaken town?”
So, I said, “Please, Mr. Conductor
Won’t you let me ride your train?
Oh, please, please, please, Mr. Conductor
Let me ride on your train.”
He said, “This train ain’t mine
You’re asking me in vain.”
“Oh, please, Mr. Engineer
Won’t you let me ride your line
Ride your line
Oh, please, Mr. Engineer
Won’t you let me ride on your line.”
He said, “I mourn my heartbreaker
Now, this ain’t no train of mine.”
I watch the headlight shining
Far as my eyes could see
I watch the headlight shining
Far as my eyes could see
Wondering why, oh, why, Lord
That someone never sent for me
Here comes that long black train, Lord
Right by my back door again
Here comes that long black train
Just right by my back door again
Now, that’s the same old train, now
Took my two very best friends