Corey's Coming

Harry Chapin

About Corey's Coming

"Corey's Coming" is a song written and sung by Harry Chapin. It was released on his 1976 album On the Road to Kingdom Come.


Year:
1979
48 
#1

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Old John Joseph was a man with two first names
They left him in the railroad yard when they took away the trains
Only one run a week comes on roaring down that line
So all he's got to worry 'bout is time.

I come by in the evening to hear 'bout where he's been
He says come on sit down Kid, where shall I begin?
He starts telling me the stories of the glories of his past
But he always saves the story of his Corey for the last.

And he says my Corey's coming. No more sad stories coming
My midnight-moonlight-morning-glory's coming aren't you girl?
And like I told you, when she holds you
She enfolds you in her world.

I was quite surprised to find out all the places that he knew
And so I asked the townfolk if his stories were true
They said old John was born here, he's lived here all his life
He's never had a woman, let alone a wife.

And very soon you'll find out as you check around
That no one named Corey's ever lived in this town
So I chided the old man 'bout the truth that I had heard
He smiled and said reality is only just a word.

I came by one evening but he did not hear my shout
I looked in the window and saw the fire was out
When he would not wake up I forced in the door
And found that Old John Joseph would tell stories no more.

The scene at the graveyard, three of us were there
Me and the gravedigger heard the parson's prayer
He said - We need not grieve for this man,
For we know that God cares!

They put the cold dirt over him and left me on my own
And when at last I looked up I saw I was not alone
So I said if you're a relative, he had a peaceful end.
She said my name is Corey you can say I'm just a friend.

Corey's coming, no more sad stories coming
My midnight-moonlight-morning-glory's coming aren't you girl?
And like I told you, when she holds you
She enfolds you in her world.

So that's the old man's story, I'm glad you came tonight
A busted down old railroad yard sure makes a lonely sight
You may wonder why a young man would work out here alone
Well the job pays enough to keep some flesh on my bones.

And I confess I get to missing the old man a bit
And there's one other reason I guess I should admit 

Can't you see my Corey's coming, no more sad stories coming
My midnight-moonlight-morning-glory's coming aren't you girl?
And like he told me, when she holds me
She enfolds me in her world.

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Harry Chapin

Harry Forster Chapin (December 7, 1942 – July 16, 1981) was an American singer-songwriter best known for his folk rock songs including "Taxi", "W*O*L*D", and the No. 1 hit "Cat's in the Cradle". Chapin was also a dedicated humanitarian who fought to end world hunger; he was a key player in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger in 1977. In 1987, Chapin was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his humanitarian work. more »

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Written by: HARRY F. CHAPIN

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


5 facts about this song

I. Song Context
1. "Corey's Coming" is a song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Harry Chapin, known for his folk-rock music. 2. The song is included in his seventh studio album, "Dance Band on the Titanic," which was released in 1977. 3. This song showcases Chapin's storytelling prowess, which is the primary characteristic that sets him apart from many other artists of his era.
II. Song Composition
4. "Corey's Coming" is a lengthy track, running over 9 minutes long, giving it a narrative, almost epic, tone. 5. Chapin uses a variety of instruments in this song including guitars, string orchestra, harpsichord and recorder, which supports the folk-rock genre of the song.
III. Lyrics Interpretation
6. The lyrics tell a story about a disabled man named Old John Joseph, who waits every day for his son, Corey, to come and visit him. However, Corey never arrives. 7. It is speculated that the song could be interpreted as addressing themes of parental hope, false promises, disappointment, and unconditional love.
IV. Critical Reception and Impact
8. While "Corey's Coming" wasn't a chart-topping hit, it is widely regarded by fans and critics as one of Harry Chapin's finest narrative songs. 9. The song demonstrates Chapin's ability to convey complex emotions and scenarios through his music, making him one of the most influential folk-rock storytellers.
V. Legacy
10. After Chapin's untimely death in 1981, his music, including "Corey's Coming," gained a greater appreciation. 11. The song, like much of Chapin's work, is known for its storytelling, concentration on plot development, and a beautiful blend of instruments. 12. "Corey's Coming" continues to captivate new generations of listeners, thanks to its moving narrative and intricate composition.

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