About the song
Tom Jones’ rendition of “Detroit City” stands as a powerful and evocative piece that showcases the legendary Welsh singer’s vocal prowess and emotional depth. Released in 1967, this song was included in his album “Green, Green Grass of Home”, an album that cemented Jones’ reputation as one of the premier voices of his generation.
“Detroit City” was originally written by Danny Dill and Mel Tillis and first made famous by Bobby Bare in 1963. However, Tom Jones brought his unique style and soulful intensity to the track, making it his own and connecting deeply with his audience. The song tells the poignant story of a Southern man who has moved to Detroit in search of better opportunities but finds himself yearning for the familiar comforts of home. This theme of displacement and longing resonated with many during the 1960s, a time of significant social and economic change in the United States.
The song opens with a mournful, reflective tone as Jones sings, “Last night I went to sleep in Detroit City, and I dreamed about those cotton fields and home.” These lines immediately set the stage for a narrative of homesickness and regret. The protagonist grapples with the harsh realities of urban life, contrasting it with the nostalgic memories of his rural upbringing. This emotional dichotomy is at the heart of “Detroit City”, making it a song that speaks to anyone who has ever felt the pangs of homesickness.
Musically, “Detroit City” features a rich arrangement that complements Jones’ powerful vocals. The instrumentation, characterized by its soulful brass sections and steady rhythm, enhances the song’s melancholy yet hopeful tone. Jones’ delivery is heartfelt and robust, capturing the essence of the lyrics with each note. His ability to convey deep emotion through his voice is one of the reasons why his version of the song is so impactful.
“Detroit City” also had a notable social impact. During the 1960s, many people were moving from rural areas to cities in search of better job prospects, and this song encapsulates the mixed emotions associated with such a move. It touches on themes of economic hardship, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the enduring bond of home and family. For many listeners, the song was a mirror of their own experiences, making it a deeply personal and relatable track.
The inclusion of “Detroit City” on the “Green, Green Grass of Home” album was a strategic choice, as it fit well with the album’s overarching themes of homecoming and nostalgia. The album itself was a critical and commercial success, further solidifying Tom Jones’ place in the music industry. His ability to interpret and breathe new life into songs like “Detroit City” showcased his versatility and deep connection with his audience.
In conclusion, Tom Jones’ “Detroit City” is more than just a cover; it is a heartfelt rendition that captures the complexities of longing for home and the struggles of urban life. Through his powerful vocals and emotional delivery, Jones brings the song’s narrative to life, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with listeners. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Tom Jones or discovering his music for the first time, “Detroit City” is a track that embodies the enduring spirit of the human experience.
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Lyrics
Last night I went to sleep in Detroit City,
and I dreamed about those cotton fields at home.
I dreamed about my mother,
dear old Papa, Sister and brother,I dreamed about that girl
who’s been waiting for so long.
I wanna go home, I wanna go home,
oh, how I wanna go home!Home, folks think I’m big in Detroit City.
From the letters that I write, they think I’m fine.
But by day, I make the cars,
and by night I make the bars,
If only they could read between the lines![Spoken]
You know,
I rode a freight train north to Detroit City.
After all these years,
I find that I’ve just been wastin’ my time.
So I just think I’ll take my foolish pride,
put on a south bound freight and ride,
Goin’ back to the love ones,
The ones I left waitin’ so far behind.I wanna go home, I wanna go home,
oh, how I want to go home.