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The story of John Henry is told in a classic blues folk song about his duel against a drilling machine, which exists in many versions, and has been the subject of numerous stories, plays, books, and novels.
Apr 24, 2024 · John Henry is a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of the common people. The song’s themes of struggle and triumph resonate with listeners from all walks of life, and it has become a fixture at protest rallies and political rallies alike.
Mar 7, 2024 · Last Updated: Mar 7, 2024 • Article History. John Henry. Statue of John Henry, near Talcott, West Virginia. John Henry, hero of a widely sung African American folk ballad. It describes his contest with a steam drill, in which John Henry crushed more rock than did the machine but died “with his hammer in his hand.”.
Dec 30, 2023 · The song “John Henry” tells the captivating story of a legendary African American folk hero who was known for his unparalleled strength and determination. The lyrics reveal John Henry as a baby, already displaying his affinity for hammers, proclaiming that they will be the death of him.
“John Henry” is a traditional American folk song that dates back to the late 19th century. The lyrics depict the legendary tale of John Henry, an African American “steel-driving man” who worked on the railroad during the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad. John Henry was renowned for his exceptional strength and skills with a hammer.
I'm going to make a steel-driving man, my babe. I'm going to make a steel-driving man" When John Henry was a little boy. A-sitting on his father's knee. Says, "The Big Bend Tunnel on the C&O Road. Is going to be the death of me, my babe" John he made a steel-driving man. They took him to the tunnel to drive. He drove so hard he broke his heart.
BACKGROUND: The Ballad of John Henry was an Afro-American folk song dating back to the late 1800s. The song tells of a man who worked as a steel driver when the railroads were being built across Western America. John was so good at his job, that he was put up against a steam powered hammer in a race to see who would complete the job faster.
