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Introduction
When you hear Randy Travis and Josh Turner take on Long Black Train, you’re not just listening to two of country music’s finest voices—you’re embarking on a journey, a ride down tracks that explore faith, temptation, and the resilience of the human spirit. Originally written and recorded by Josh Turner in 2003, Long Black Train has always been more than just a song; it’s a warning wrapped in a melody, urging listeners to resist the lure of temptation and hold firm to their faith. And when Randy Travis joins Turner, the song takes on an even deeper resonance, blending two voices that are steeped in that old-school, gospel-rich tradition of storytelling.
The power of Long Black Train lies in its simplicity. The imagery is vivid yet familiar—a lonely train representing the darker paths that can tempt us. It’s like Josh and Randy are sharing a piece of hard-won wisdom, urging us to stay strong when life’s temptations come calling. Their voices, rich and grounded, bring a sense of authenticity and conviction that few can match. You can almost feel the weight of every note, every line, as they sing about holding firm, finding faith, and avoiding those “rails” that might lead us astray.
In a way, this duet is a rare treat. Randy Travis, a legend in his own right, has been a guiding force for many artists, including Josh Turner himself. Hearing these two together is like witnessing a conversation between mentor and mentee—a beautiful moment of shared faith, love for tradition, and pure vocal magic. Their performance is more than just a song; it’s an experience, a moment of unity that transcends generations and reminds us all to keep walking the right path.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply someone looking for a little reassurance, Long Black Train in the hands of Randy Travis and Josh Turner is a song that sticks with you. It’s like an old friend offering timeless advice, wrapped up in that signature country warmth we can all feel in our hearts.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
There’s a long black train comin’ down the line
Feedin’ off the souls that are lost and cryin’
Rails of sin, only evil remains
Watch out, brother, for that long black train
[Verse 2]
Look to the heavens, you can look to the skies
You can find redemption starin’ back into your eyes
There is protection and there’s peace the same
Burnin’ your ticket for that long black train
[Chorus]
‘Cause there’s victory in the Lord, I say
Victory in the Lord
Cling to the Father and His Holy name
And don’t go ridin’ on that long black train
[Verse 3]
There’s an engineer on that long black train
Makin’ you wonder if the ride is worth the pain
He’s just a-waitin’ on your heart to say
“Let me ride on that long black train”
[Chorus]
But you know there’s victory in the Lord, I say
Victory in the Lord
Cling to the Father and His Holy name
And don’t go ridin’ on that long black train
[Bridge]
Well, I can hear the whistle from a mile away
It sounds so good but I must stay away
That train is a beauty, makin’ everybody stare
But its only destination is the middle of nowhere
[Chorus]
But you know there’s victory in the Lord, I say
Victory in the Lord
Cling to the Father and His Holy name
And don’t go ridin’ on that long black train
[Outro]
I said cling to the Father and His Holy name
And don’t go ridin’ on that long black train
Yeah, watch out brother for that long black train
That devil’s a-drivin’ that long black train