“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Listening to “Wabash Cannonball” by Boxcar Willie is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to the golden age of American railroads. This song isn’t just a piece of music; it’s a journey through history, a celebration of the iconic train that captured the imagination of generations.
Boxcar Willie, with his distinctive voice and heartfelt delivery, brings a unique charm to this classic folk tune. The song itself has roots that go deep into the American cultural landscape, often considered a staple of the folk and country music genres. It’s a nostalgic ode to the Wabash Cannonball, a legendary train that symbolizes freedom, adventure, and the pioneering spirit of America.
What makes Boxcar Willie’s rendition so special is his personal connection to the material. He wasn’t just singing about trains; he lived and breathed them. His stage name, Boxcar Willie, is a testament to his love for the railroad life. This authenticity shines through in every note he sings, making you feel like you’re right there on the train, watching the world pass by.
The song’s melody is simple yet powerful, carrying with it the rhythms of the rails and the echoes of a bygone era. It’s easy to close your eyes and imagine the whistle blowing, the wheels clacking on the tracks, and the vast American landscape unfolding before you. The lyrics tell a story of the train’s journey, evoking a sense of wanderlust and a deep appreciation for the country’s natural beauty.
Beyond its musical qualities, “Wabash Cannonball” holds a significant place in American folklore. It’s been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their own flavor to the song. But there’s something undeniably magical about Boxcar Willie’s version. It’s raw, genuine, and filled with a passion that only someone who truly understands the railroad life could convey.
In essence, “Wabash Cannonball” by Boxcar Willie isn’t just a song—it’s a piece of Americana, a tribute to the railways that once connected the nation, and a reminder of the enduring spirit of adventure. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of folk music or just discovering it for the first time, this song is sure to resonate with you on a deeply personal level.
Video
Lyrics
From the great Atlantic ocean to the wide Pacific shore
The green old flowing mountains to the south down by the moor
She’s mighty tall and handsome she’s know quite well by all
Regular combination on the Wabash Cannonball
Listen to the jingle, the rumble and the roar
As she glides along the woodland o’er the hills and by the shore
Hear the mighty rush of the engine hear the lonesome hobo’s call
As you travel across the country on the Wabash Cannonball
Oh the eastern states are dandy so the people always say
From New York to St. Louis and Chicago by the way
To the hills of Minnesota where them rippling waters fall
No changes can be taken on the Wabash Cannonball
Here’s to Daddy Claxton may his name forever stand
In the hills of Tennessee and in the courts throughout the land
When his earthly race are over and them curtains round him fall
Would we take him home to Dixy on the Wabash Cannonball
I went down from Birmingham one cold December day
When she pulled into that station you could hear them people say
There’s a fellow from Tennessee, boys, he’s long and he’s tall
He came down from Alabamon the Wabash Cannonball
Oh listen to that jingle, the rumble and the roar
As she glides along the woodland o’er hills and by the shore
Hear the mighty rush of the engine hear the lonesome hobo’s call
You’re travelling through the jungle on the Wabash Cannonball