John Henry
Van Morrison · Other Songs - Van Morrison
Sittin' on his mama's knee
Well he picked up a feather and a piece of steel
And said that's gonna be the death of me
Lord, lord, lord that's gonna be the death of me
Well John Henry had a little woman
Name of Polly Ann
Well John got sick had to lay down on the bed
Polly drove steel like a man
Lord, lord, lord, Polly drove steel like a man
Well John Henry went up on the mountain
Well the mountain was sinkin' in
He said come on captain I know what I'm doin'
It ain't nothin' but my hammer suckin' wind
Lord, lord, lord, It ain't nothin' but my hammer suckin' wind
Well john Henry went up on the mountain
Lord the mountain was so high
He said we're gonna shake this steel drivin' down
Give me a cool drink of water before I die
Give me a cool drink of water before I die
Some say he came from England
Some say he came from Spain
But John Henry was nothin' but a Louisiana man
And he died with his hammer in his hand
Lord, lord, lord, he died with his hammer in his hand
Steel drivin' man, he died with his hammer in his hand
Lord ain't nothin' but my hammer suckin' wind etc. etc.
John Henry
Van Morrison's 'John Henry' stands as a testament to his enduring ability to reinterpret American folklore through a soulful, jazz-inflected lens. The track draws upon the legendary figure of the steel-driving man, transforming a traditional ballad into a vehicle for Morrison's signature vocal improvisation and poetic storytelling. This recording showcases his mastery of blending blues, gospel, and rock elements, creating a soundscape that feels both timeless and immediate. As part of his expansive discography, the song highlights his deep connection to the roots music traditions that have shaped his career. It serves as a powerful example of how Morrison elevates classic narratives, infusing them with his unique emotional depth and musical sophistication for listeners across generations.