16 Tons
LeAnn Rimes · Lady & Gentlemen [2011]
A poor man's made outta muscle and blood
Muscle and blood, skin and bones
A mind that's weak and a back that's strong
You load sixteen tons, what do you get?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store
I was born one mornin' when the sun didn't shine
I picked up my shovel, and I walked to the mine
I loaded sixteen tons of number nine coal
And the straw boss said, "Well, bless my soul"
You load sixteen tons, what do you get?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store
If you see me comin', you better step aside
A lotta men didn't...and a lotta men died
One fist of iron, the other of steel
If the right one don't get you, then the left one will
You load sixteen tons, what do you get?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don't you call me 'cause I can't go
I owe my soul to the company store
16 Tons
LeAnn Rimes' rendition of "16 Tons" appears on her 2011 album Lady & Gentlemen, marking a deliberate exploration of classic American roots music. Known for her powerful vocal delivery and early success in country and pop, Rimes frequently revisits established standards to reinterpret them through her distinctive style. This recording captures the weight and narrative depth of the original composition while maintaining the emotional resonance that defines her broader discography. The track stands as a testament to her ability to honor traditional songwriting while infusing it with contemporary production values. By selecting such an iconic piece, Rimes connects her modern country identity with the enduring legacy of American folk and bluegrass traditions, showcasing her versatility across genres.