Train in Vain

The Clash

About Train in Vain

"Train in Vain" is a song by the British punk rock band the Clash. It was released as the third and final single from their third studio album, London Calling (1979). The song was not originally listed on the album's track listing, appearing as a hidden track at the end of the album. This was because the track was added to the record at the last minute, when the sleeve was already in production. Some editions include the song in the track listing. It was the first Clash song to reach the United States Top 30 charts and in 2004, the song was ranked number 298 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. In the US, the song's title is expanded to "Train in Vain (Stand by Me)", as the words "stand by me" dominate the chorus. It was titled "Train in Vain" in part to avoid confusion with Ben E. King's signature song "Stand by Me". 


Year:
1979
3:10
717 
#5

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You say you stand by your man
Tell me something I don't understand
You said you love me and that's a fact
And then you left me, said you felt trapped

Well some things you can explain away
But the heartache's in me till this day

Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way

All the times
When we were close
I'll remember these things the most
I see all my dreams come tumbling down
I can't be happy without you around

So all alone I keep the wolves at bay
And there is only one thing that I can say

Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way

You must explain why this must be
Did you lie when you spoke to me

Did you stand by me
No, not at all

Now I got a job
But it don't pay
I need new clothes
I need somewhere to stay
But without all these things I can do
But without your love I won't make it through

But you don't understand my point of view
I suppose there's nothing I can do

Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way

Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way

You must explain why this must be
Did you lie when you spoke to me?

Did you stand by me
Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way
Did you stand by me
No, not at all
Did you stand by me
No way

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The Clash

The Clash were an English punk rock band that formed in 1976 as part of the original wave of British punk. Along with punk, their music incorporated elements of reggae, ska, dub, funk, rap, dance, and rockabilly. For most of their recording career, the Clash consisted of Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass guitar, vocals) and Nicky "Topper" Headon (drums, percussion). Headon left the group in 1982, and internal friction led to Jones's departure the following year. The group continued with new members, but finally disbanded in early 1986. more »

6 fans

Written by: Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, Topper Headon

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Album Inclusion
"Train in Vain" was not originally listed in the track listing of "London Calling," the album it was included in. It was a last-minute addition to the album.
Song Inspiration
The song was inspired by Mick Jones's break-up with his girlfriend at the time.
Name Debate
The song is often called "Train in Vain (Stand by Me)," but the actual title does not include the parenthetical.
Rejection Inspiration
The phrase "Train in Vain" came from the fact that Mick Jones's girlfriend regularly missed his shows, so he often waited for her in vain at the train station.
First Major US Hit
It was the Clash's first significant commercial hit in the United States.
Songwriting Credits
Although most of the songs by The Clash are credited to the entire band, "Train in Vain" is one of the few exceptions as it is credited specifically to Mick Jones and Joe Strummer.
Dance Track
"Train in Vain" is one of The Clash's most dance-oriented songs, featuring a funky, danceable beat.
Rolling Stone Recognition
In 2004, the song was ranked number 298 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.
Hidden Track
On the original release of "London Calling" on vinyl, "Train in Vain" was a hidden track not listed on the sleeve.
Cover Version
Notably, Annie Lennox covered "Train in Vain" in 1995, and her version was a hit in the UK.
Live Performances
The Clash regularly performed this song live during their concerts, making it an integral part of their shows.
Genre Blend
"Train in Vain" showcases The Clash's innovative blending of punk rock with other genres, in this case, blending with elements of pop and funk.
Award Recognition
The album "London Calling", which includes "Train in Vain" was awarded the Best Album award at the inaugural BRIT Awards in 1977.

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