“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
When Boxcar Willie took the stage at Wembley in 1982 to perform “Mule Train,” it wasn’t just a performance; it was an electrifying moment that captured the hearts of everyone present. “Mule Train,” originally a hit from the 1940s, found new life in the hands of Boxcar Willie, a beloved figure in the country and western music scene known for his nostalgic sound and train-themed songs.
Boxcar Willie’s rendition of “Mule Train” is a testament to his unique ability to breathe new life into classic tunes. With his rich, gravelly voice, he transports listeners back to a simpler time, evoking the spirit of the open road and the rugged, hardworking lifestyle of those who depended on mule trains for transporting goods. His performance at Wembley was particularly special, showcasing not just his vocal talent but also his charisma and stage presence.
What makes this performance truly unforgettable is the authenticity and passion that Boxcar Willie brought to the stage. You can almost feel the dust and hear the creak of the wagons as he sings. It’s as if he’s lived every line of the song, drawing from a deep well of personal experience and emotion. The crowd at Wembley responded with palpable enthusiasm, a testament to Boxcar Willie’s ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level.
The song itself, with its rhythmic calls and vivid imagery, paints a picture of a bygone era. It’s not just about the journey of the mule train; it’s about perseverance, hard work, and the relentless march forward, no matter the obstacles. Boxcar Willie’s interpretation brings out these themes beautifully, making it a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever faced a tough journey.
In summary, Boxcar Willie’s performance of “Mule Train” at Wembley in 1982 is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of those who paved the way before us. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, this performance is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Mule train!! (Hyah, hyah)
Mule train!!
Clippety cloppin’ over hill and plain
Seems as how they never stop, clippety clop, clippety clop
Clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety cloppin’ along
There’s a plug o’chaw tobacky for a rancher in Corona
A ghee-tar for a cowboy ‘way out in Arizona
A dress of calico for a pretty Navajo
Get along, mule! , get along
Mule train!! (Hyah, hyah)
Mule train!!
Clippety cloppin’ o’er the mountain chain
Soon they’re gonna reach the top, clippety clop, clippety clop
Clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety cloppin’ along
There’s some cotton thread and needles for the folks in way-out-yonder
A shovel for a miner who left his home to wander
Some rheumatism pills for the settlers in the hills
Get along, mule!! , get along
Mule train!! (Hyah, hyah)
Mule train!!
Clippety cloppin’ through the wind and rain
They’ll keep goin’ till they drop, clippety clop, clippety clop
Clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety, clippety cloppin’ along
There’s a letter full of sadness trimmed with black around the border
A pair of boots for someone who had them made to order
A bible in the pack for the Reverend Mr. Black
Get along, mule! , get along
Get along, mule, get along!! (mule train)
FADE