John Henry never dropped that hammer he was born to hold.
His back was strong as steel and, now, his hands is just as cold.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, deep down in the clay,
O, John Henry, O John Henry, drive those spikes of gray.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, drive your railway,
O, John Henry, O John Henry, deep down in the clay.
Groanin’ like an engine—there’s an oven in your chest.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, show ‘em who’s the best.
Drive that railroad crossin’ from the country to the town.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, nail it to the ground.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, nail it to the ground.
Drive that railroad crossin’ from the country to the town.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, lay your body down.
O, John Henry, O John Henry, nail it to the ground.
credits
from The Bath (2005),
released May 27, 2005
All songs written and performed by Achilles Tenderloin (Joe Augustin), 2004, 2005
A vibrant vision of "Central Americana" from the Costa Rica-based artist, blending heartland devotionals with playful Tropicália grooves. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 27, 2022