Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash – Big Bad John

Please scroll down for the music video. It is at the end of the article! 👇👇

About The Song

Johnny Cash, a name synonymous with country music, has gifted us with countless timeless classics. Among his most celebrated works is the poignant ballad, “Big Bad John”. Released in 1959, this song has endured the test of time, captivating listeners with its tale of heroism, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of mortality.

“Big Bad John” is more than just a song; it’s a narrative. Cash’s deep, resonant voice paints a vivid picture of a formidable yet compassionate coal miner. The lyrics, rich with imagery and emotion, transport us to the gritty world of the mines, where danger lurks around every corner. The titular character, “Big Bad John,” is portrayed as a larger-than-life figure, a hero who risks his life to save his fellow miners.

The song’s structure is simple yet effective. Cash’s storytelling ability shines through as he weaves a tale of bravery and selflessness. The chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “Big Bad John,” serves as a powerful anchor, grounding the listener in the narrative. The contrast between the harsh realities of the mining life and the gentle, almost reverent tone of the song creates a deeply moving experience.

One of the most striking aspects of “Big Bad John” is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The listener is invited to feel a sense of admiration for the titular character’s courage, sadness at his untimely demise, and a profound respect for the dangerous and often thankless work of miners. The song’s themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the cycle of life and death are universal, resonating with people from all walks of life.

Musically, “Big Bad John” is a masterclass in simplicity. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Cash’s voice and the evocative lyrics to take center stage. The backing instrumentation is understated, providing just enough support without overwhelming the song. The melody is both memorable and haunting, further contributing to the song’s enduring appeal.

Johnny Cash’s “Big Bad John” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its powerful storytelling, combined with Cash’s iconic vocals, make it a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted song. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cash or new to his music, “Big Bad John” is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3_Y7tpo_kA

Lyric

Big John
Big John

Every mornning at the mine, you could see him arrive.
He stood 6 foot 6, weighed 245.
Kind of broad at the shoulders, narrow at the hip.
And everybody knew you didn’t give no lip to Big John.

Big John
Big John
Big Bad John
Big John

Nobody seemed to know where John called home
He just drifted into town and stayed all alone.
He didn’t say much, kind of quiet and shy
And if you spoke at all, you’d just said hi to Big John.
Somebody said he came from New Orleans,
Where he got into a fight over a Cajun Queen.
And a crash and a blow from a huge right hand,
sent a Lousiana fella to the promise land.

Big John
Big John
Big bad John
Big John

Then came the day at the bottom of the mine,
when a timber cracked and men started crying.
Minors were praying, and hearts beat fast
and everybody thought they had breathed thier last
cept’ John.
Through the dust and the smoke of this man made hell,
walked a giant of a man that the minors knew well.
Grabbed a sagging timber and gave out with a groan,
and like a giant oak tree he just stood there alone, Big John

Big John
Big John
Big Bad John
Big John

And with all of his strength, he gave a mighty shove.
Then a minor yelled out, ‘theres a light up above!’.
And 20 men scrambled from a ‘would be’ grave
now theres only one left down there to save, Big John.
With jacks and timbers, they started back down,
then came that rumble way down in the ground.
And as smoke and gas smelched out of that mine,
everybody knew it was the end of the line, for Big John.

Big John
Big John
Big Bad John
Big John

Now they never re-opend that wortheless pit,
they just placed a marble stand in front of it.
These few words are written on that stand,
‘At the bottom of this mine, lies one Hell of a man, Big John’

Big John
Big John
Big Bad John
Big John.

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