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The lyrics of “The Ballad of John Henry” evoke a sense of defiance and the desire for liberation. Joe Bonamassa’s powerful vocals reflect John Henry’s determination to resist the cold iron shackles that sought to confine him. Through the repeated question of “Who killed John Henry, in the battle of sinners and saints,” the song ...
Aug 1, 2013 · One of the most colorful characters in American folklore is the legendary John Henry. Whether he was a true historical figure or a fictitious hero carved into the minds of common Americans by oral tradition, his story has given inspiration to generations. Geoff Edgers said in his Analysis of John Henry Music, “John Henry, as ultimate working ...
Sep 2, 2002 · Above all, "John Henry" is the single most well known and often recorded American folk song. For NPR's ongoing series Present at the Creation, musician and researcher Stephen Wade explores John Henry's legacy and the long life of the ballad that it inspired. Wade reports that the abundance of music related to John Henry -- and more specifically ...
When we talk about "John Henry," we may be referring to a ballad, a work song, a folk hero, or a legend. Most familiar is the character John Henry, the man who drove steel on the C & O Road and died with his hammer in his hand. His feat (s) have been memorialized in the ballad, one familiar verse of which goes, When John Henry was a little baby ...
For a musical rendition of this ballad, see Harry Belafonte’s performance in 1959 at Carnegie Hall, available here. John Henry was a little baby. Sittin’ on his papa’s knee. He picked up a hammer & 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 ...
Popularity of “John Henry”: John Henry is a lyrical ballad known for its unique theme: Man versus Machine. It was first published in the 19 th It is also known as the folklore of an African-American man working on constructing a railroad. The unfortunate man dies while accomplishing a grand task.
