John Hardy
Jerry Reed
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John Hardy, he was a desperate little man Carried two guns every day Shot a man down by the West Virginia line They saw John Hardy get away They saw John Hardy get away They cornered John Hardy on the Tombstone bridge He thought that he was free 'Til the deputy sheriff came and grabbed him by the arm Said "Johnny, come along with me" "Johnny, come along with me" John Hardy, he stood inside his cell Tears running down his eyes Said "I've seen the death of many a poor boy Now I'm ready to die Now I'm ready to die" Well, I've been to the east and I've been to the west I've been the whole world round I've been to the north and I've been to the south Now I'm going to my hanging ground I'm going to my hanging ground
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
Written by: BURL IVES
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
12 facts about this song
Origin"John Hardy" is a traditional American folk song based on the real-life story of a railroad worker who kills a man in a gambling dispute.
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Bill MonroeBluegrass pioneer Bill Monroe's version of "John Hardy", while retaining the original melody, prominently features his iconic mandolin playing and high tenor vocals.
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Bobby BareCountry singer Bobby Bare's rendition of "John Hardy" appears on his 1969 album "Your Husband, My Wife". His version is slower-paced and has a more traditional country sound.
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Jerry ReedKnown for his unique style of country and rockabilly music, Jerry Reed's version of "John Hardy" was featured in the 1975 album titled "Mind Your Love".
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Pete SeegerFolk singer and social activist Pete Seeger performed a version of "John Hardy" that not only emphasizes the tale's moral implications but also showcases his banjo skills.
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The Carter FamilyOne of the most influential groups in country and folk music, The Carter Family's recording of "John Hardy Was a Desperate Little Man" from the 1920s is considered a classic version of the song.
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The Gun ClubThe Los Angeles punk band, The Gun Club, performed a raucous, stripped-down version of "John Hardy" that is markedly different from the traditional country renditions of the song.
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The String Cheese IncidentThe Colorado jam band, The String Cheese Incident, often includes "John Hardy" in their live performances, blending bluegrass, rock, and improvisational elements into the song.
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Uncle TupeloThe alternative country band Uncle Tupelo's version of "John Hardy" hits closer to home with its raw and powerful interpretation, which truly encapsulates the essence of this ageless tale of crime and punishment.
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InfluenceThe widespread cover versions of "John Hardy" demonstrate the song's ability to transcend genres and time. It continues to be a staple in the repertoire of many folk, country, and bluegrass musicians.
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LyricsThe lyrics of "John Hardy" recount the story of the main character's crime, trial, and execution, serving as a cautionary tale against violence.
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Real-life John HardyThe real John Hardy was executed in 1894 for murder. His life and death became the subject of numerous songs, plays, and stories in Southern American folklore.
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Citation
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"John Hardy Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 9 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/3582278/Jerry+Reed/John+Hardy>.
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