About the song
John Denver’s Enduring Anthem: “City of New Orleans”
In the realm of American folk music, few names resonate with the enduring popularity and heartfelt authenticity of John Denver. His gentle voice, earnest songwriting, and captivating stage presence made him a beloved figure to generations of listeners. Among his vast repertoire of cherished songs, “City of New Orleans” stands out as a timeless classic, painting a vivid portrait of a southbound train journey and the evocative spirit of the American landscape.
A Songwriter’s Journey
Released in 1971, “City of New Orleans” was not originally written by Denver himself. The song’s origins can be traced back to fellow folk singer and songwriter Steve Goodman, who penned the tune in 1970. Denver’s version, released the following year on his album Aerie, would go on to become one of his most recognizable and beloved hits.
A Musical Tapestry
“City of New Orleans” unfolds as a lyrical narrative, following the journey of a passenger train named the City of New Orleans as it travels from Chicago to New Orleans. Denver’s warm vocals and gentle guitar accompaniment transport listeners into the heart of the train, painting vivid images of the passing landscapes and the diverse characters encountered along the way.
A Ballad of Nostalgia and Hope
The song’s lyrics capture a sense of nostalgia and longing, as the narrator reflects on the changing scenery and the fleeting nature of life. Yet, amidst the bittersweet undertones, there’s an underlying current of hope and optimism, embodied in the train’s relentless journey towards its southern destination.
A Beloved Classic
“City of New Orleans” quickly became a staple of Denver’s live performances, captivating audiences with its evocative storytelling and heartfelt delivery. The song’s popularity extended beyond Denver’s fanbase, earning him a Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 1973 and becoming a cover song for numerous artists across genres.
A Legacy of Enduring Charm
Decades after its release, “City of New Orleans” remains a cherished classic, a testament to Denver’s songwriting prowess and the enduring power of folk music. The song’s evocative lyrics, captivating melody, and timeless themes continue to resonate with listeners of all ages, solidifying its place as an American musical treasure.
Key takeaways:
- “City of New Orleans” is a timeless classic written by Steve Goodman and popularized by John Denver.
- The song narrates a train journey from Chicago to New Orleans, capturing the essence of the American landscape and the fleeting nature of life.
- Denver’s heartfelt vocals and gentle guitar accompaniment transport listeners into the heart of the song’s narrative.
- “City of New Orleans” became a Grammy Award-winning hit and a staple of Denver’s live performances.
- The song’s enduring popularity cements its status as an American folk music treasure.
Video
Lyrics
“City Of New Orleans”
Riding on the “City of New Orleans,” Illinois Central Monday Morning Rail.
Fifteen cars and fifteen restless riders,
three conductors and twenty five sacks of mail.
They’re out on the south-bound odyssey and the train pulls out of Kankakee.
Rolling long past houses, farms and fields.
Passing towns that have no name, freight yards full of old gray men,
the graveyards of the rusted automobiles,Singing, good morning America, how are you?
Saying, don’t you know me, I’m your native son?
I’m the train they call “The City of New Orleans”.
I’ll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.Dealing cards with the old men in the club car.
Plenty of points, ain’t no one keeping score.
Say, won’t you pass the paper bag that holds the bottle.
And feel the wheels rumbling ‘neath the floor.
And the sons of Pullman porters, and the sons of engineers
ride their father’s magic carpet made of steel.
And the days are full of restless, and the dreams are full of memories,
and the echoes of the freight train whistles clear.Singing, good morning America, how are you?
Saying, don’t you know me, I’m your native son?
I’m the train they call “The City of New Orleans”.
I’ll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.But it’s twilight on the city of New Orleans, talk about a pocket full of friends.
Halfway home and we’ll be there by morning.
With no tomorrow waiting ’round the bend.Singing good night, America, I love you.
Saying, don’t you know me, I’m your native son?
I’m the train they call “The City of New Orleans”.
I’ll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.Singing, good morning America, how are you?
Saying, don’t you know me, I’m your native son?
I’m the train they call “The City of New Orleans”.
I’ll be gone five hundred miles when the day is done.