I'm Gonna Ride That Steamboat

Flatt And Scruggs · Other Songs - Flatt And Scruggs

Now this is a story about the young man from Natchez Mississippi

Whose father took a steamboat called the Delta Queen to New Orleans

And got killed in a poker game

The young man thought about it for awhile and then decided on revenge

And he said I'm gonna ride that steamboat



That steamboat took my daddy to New Orleans

He got killed in a poker game downtown

Steamboat took my daddy to New Orleans

Some poky Cajun gambler shot him down



Daddy rode that steamboat, didn't take me along

And I've been sittin' there thinking all day long

And I'm a gonna ride that steamboat, take my gun along

I'll get the man that done my daddy wrong



Steamboat took my daddy to New Orleans

Daddy was pretty good with a deck of cards

He said that he'd get rich in New Orleans

'Cause the game's too good and the cash is pourin' high



But you can win no money when the deck of cards you stack

And the steamboat never brought my daddy back

And I'm a gonna ride that steamboat, take my gun along

I'll get the man that done my daddy wrong



Steamboat took my daddy to New Orleans

I know he wanted that money for us kids

Steamboat took my daddy to New Orleans

Now mama won't forgive the things he did



Daddy rode that steamboat, never took mom along

And she's been sittin' there crying all day long

And I'm a gonna ride that steamboat, take my gun along

I'll get the man that done my daddy wrong



I'll get that man who's done my daddy wrong

I'm Gonna Ride That Steamboat

Flatt and Scruggs defined the sound of bluegrass with their tight harmonies and instrumental precision. This upbeat track captures the duo's signature energy, blending Lester Flatt's smooth vocals with Earl Scruggs' revolutionary three-finger banjo picking. The song reflects the group's ability to transform traditional folk themes into dynamic, danceable recordings that resonated with audiences across America. As a staple of their extensive catalogue, it highlights the instrumental interplay that made them pioneers of the genre. Their work during this era established a high standard for bluegrass performance, influencing countless musicians who followed. The recording stands as a testament to their enduring legacy in American roots music, showcasing the vibrant spirit that characterized their most celebrated period.