Rain On The Scarecrow
John Mellencamp · Words & Music [2004]
Four hundred empty acres that used to be my farm
I grew up like my daddy did My grandpa cleared this land
When I was five I walked the fence while grandpa held my hand
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
This land fed a nation This land made me proud
And Son I'm just sorry there's no legacy for you now
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
The crops we grew last summer weren't enough to pay the loans
Couldn't buy the seed to plant this spring and the
Farmers Bank foreclosed
Called my old friend Schepman up to auction off the land
He said John it's just my job and I hope you understand
Hey calling it your job ol' hoss sure don't make it right
But if you want me to I'll say a prayer for your soul tonight
And grandma's on the front porch swing with a Bible in her hand
Sometimes I hear her singing "Take me to the Promised Land"
When you take away a man's dignity he can't
Work his fields and cows
There'll be blood on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Blood on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Well there's ninety-seven crosses planted in the courthouse yard
Ninety-seven families who lost ninety-seven farms
I think about my grandpa and my neighbors and my name
And some nights I feel like dyin' Like that scarecrow in the rain
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
This land fed a nation This land made me proud
And Son I'm just sorry they're just memories for you now
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
This land fed a nation This land made me so proud
And Son I'm just sorry they're just memories for you now
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Rain on the scarecrow Blood on the plow
Rain On The Scarecrow
John Mellencamp's "Rain On The Scarecrow" appears on the 2004 album Words & Music, a collection that reflects his enduring commitment to American roots rock. Throughout his extensive career, Mellencamp has cultivated a reputation for blending heartland rock with introspective songwriting, often exploring themes of rural life and personal resilience. This track continues that tradition, offering a melodic composition that fits seamlessly within his mid-2000s output. The recording showcases his signature guitar work and emotive vocal delivery, hallmarks of a discography that has influenced generations of rock musicians. While the song may not carry the immediate commercial weight of his earlier hits, it remains a testament to his consistent ability to craft meaningful, accessible music that resonates with listeners familiar with his broader body of work.