The Little Engine That Could
John Denver · All Aboard [1997]
All starting out to find a home with little girls and boys
And as that little railroad train began to chug along
The little engine up in front was heard to sing this song
Choo, choo, choo, choo, choo, choo, choo, choo
I feel so good today
Oh, hear the track, oh, clickety clack
I'll go my merry way
The little train went rousing on, so fast it seemed to fly
Until it reached a mountain that went almost to the sky
The little engine moaned and groaned and huffed and puffed away
But halfway to the top it just gave up and seemed to say
I can't go, I can't go
I'm weary as can be
I can't go, I can't go
This job is not for me
The toys got out to push but all in vain alas alack
And then a great big engine came a whistling down the track
They asked if it would kindly pull them up the mountain side
But with a high and mighty sneer, it scornfully replied I
Don't bother me, don't bother me
To pull the likes of you
Don't bother me, don't bother me
I've better things to do
The toys all started crying 'cause that engine was so mean
And then there came another one, the smallest ever seen
And though it seemed that she could hardly pull herself along
She hitched on to the train and as she pulled, she sang this song
I think I can, I think I can
I think I have a plan
And I can do 'most anything
If I only think I can
Then up that great big mountain with the cars all full of toys
And soon they reached the waiting arms of little girls and boy
And though that ends the story, it will do you lots of good
To take a lesson from the little engine that could
Just think you can, just think you can
Just have that understood
And very soon you'll start to say
I always knew I could
I knew I could, I knew I could
I knew I could, I knew I could
I knew I could, I knew I could, yeah
The Little Engine That Could
John Denver's rendition of 'The Little Engine That Could' captures the enduring optimism found throughout his discography. Released on the 1997 album All Aboard, this recording aligns with Denver's frequent exploration of themes regarding perseverance and hope. Known for his ability to craft accessible, uplifting melodies, Denver brings a gentle warmth to this classic children's story, transforming it into a musical narrative that resonates with listeners of all ages. The track exemplifies his signature folk-pop style, characterized by clear vocals and straightforward arrangements that emphasize lyrical sentiment. While often associated with his broader catalog of nature-inspired anthems, this song stands as a testament to his versatility in adapting well-known stories into memorable musical works. It remains a cherished piece within his body of work, reflecting the positive spirit that defined much of his career.

