Folsom Prison Blues

Merle Haggard · Mama Tried-Pride in What I Am [2006]

(Johnny Cash)



I hear that train a comin' it's comin' around the bend

I ain't seen the sunshine since I don't know when

I'm locked in Folsom Prison and time keeps draggin' on

And I hear that train a rollin' on down to San Antone.



When I was just a baby my mama told me son

Always be a good boy don't ever play with guns

But I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die

When I hear that lonesome whistle I hang my head and I cry.



--- Instrumental ---



I bet there's rich folks eatin' in a fancy dining car

They're probably drinking coffee and smoking big cigars

Well I know I had it comin' I know I can't be free

But I hear that train a rollin' that's what tortures me.



--- Instrumental ---



If they freed me from this prison if that railroad train was mine

I bet I'd move it over a little farther down the line

Far from Folsom Prison that's where I long to be

And let that train keep a rollin' and roll my blues away...