At The First Fall Of Snow
Hank Williams Jr. · Luke The Drifter Jr. [1969]
Recorded by Hank Williams, Sr.
Writer: Lorene Rose
3/4 time:|1 |1 |1 |1 |4 |4 |4 |5 |5 |5 |1 |1 |
|1 |1 |1 |1 |4 |4 |4 |1 |1 |5 |1 |1 |
( Start cold )
I talked with a stranger - so sad and forlorn
His garments were sackcloth - all tattered and torn
He told me a story - of sorrow and woe
His heart went to heaven - at the first fall of snow
He spoke of his angel - a dear, baby girl
He loved every footstep - he loved every curl
But she went to heaven - just one year ago
The angels came for her - at the first fall of snow
He still had the dolly - that she used to love
He held and caressed it - and gazed up above
He whispered my baby - You're waiting, I know
I'll bring you, your dolly - at the first fall of snow
And there as I listened - my eyes filled with tears
I knew she was part of - his happier years
His frail body trembled - he spoke soft and low
I'll be with my baby - at the first fall of snow
I patted his shoulder - my feelings to hide
He couldn't know - I was crying inside
He smiled as we parted - 'cause he didn't know
That we lost our baby - at the first fall of snow
__________________________________________________
Charts transcribed by John "JB" Brown
At The First Fall Of Snow
Hank Williams Jr.'s "At The First Fall Of Snow" stands as a quintessential example of his early country-rock fusion, capturing the raw energy that defined his 1969 debut album, Luke The Drifter Jr. The track showcases the young Hank's signature blend of twangy vocals and driving instrumentation, establishing the sonic template for his legendary career. Recorded during a pivotal era when he was forging a distinct path away from his father's traditional country sound, the song reflects the restless spirit of the American South. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to convey a sense of impending change and rugged individualism, hallmarks of the outlaw country movement. As a cornerstone of his discography, the recording demonstrates the artist's immediate talent for crafting memorable melodies that resonate with listeners across generations.