Rainbow Road
Joan Baez · Other Songs - Joan Baez
I was born a poor poor man
All my life I had hard workin' hands
But I sang a song as I carried my load
Cuz I had a dream about rainbow, rainbow road
Then one day my chance came along
A man heard me singin' and playing these old songs
He bought me fine clothes, paid the money I owed
Started me on my way down rainbow, rainbow road
Then one night a man wiht a knife
Pushed me till I had to take his life
Fast as fallin' all my friends were gone
That old judge traded me a sentence for a song
Just livin' with that ball 'n chain
Had to wear a number 'for they'd ever call my name
Like a dream I'm growing old
But we still sing about rainbow, rainbow read
All my life I had hard workin' hands
But I sang a song as I carried my load
Cuz I had a dream about rainbow, rainbow road
Then one day my chance came along
A man heard me singin' and playing these old songs
He bought me fine clothes, paid the money I owed
Started me on my way down rainbow, rainbow road
Then one night a man wiht a knife
Pushed me till I had to take his life
Fast as fallin' all my friends were gone
That old judge traded me a sentence for a song
Just livin' with that ball 'n chain
Had to wear a number 'for they'd ever call my name
Like a dream I'm growing old
But we still sing about rainbow, rainbow read
Rainbow Road
Joan Baez's "Rainbow Road" stands as a poignant testament to her commitment to folk music as a vehicle for social commentary. Recorded during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, the song reflects the era's urgent call for justice and equality. Baez's clear, emotive vocal delivery underscores the narrative of a journey toward hope, mirroring the struggles and aspirations of the time. As a staple of her discography, the track exemplifies the genre's tradition of storytelling and activism, resonating with listeners who seek music that addresses pressing human issues. The composition remains a significant piece in her catalog, illustrating her enduring influence on American folk and protest music.