Ghost of Tom Joad
Rage Against the Machine
Lyrics currently unavailable…
7 fans
11 facts about this song
Song Inspiration"The Ghost of Tom Joad" is inspired by John Steinbeck's 1939 novel "The Grapes of Wrath", specifically the character Tom Joad. The novel tells the story of the Joad family's migration from Oklahoma to California during the great depression.
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Bruce Springsteen's VersionBruce Springsteen released "The Ghost of Tom Joad" as the title track on his 1995 album. The album was a return to Springsteen's folk music roots, and the song won the 1997 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album.
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Rage Against the Machine's CoverThe band Rage Against The Machine covered "The Ghost of Tom Joad" in 1997 for their album "Renegades". Their version is significantly heavier than Springsteen's, incorporating elements of rock and metal music.
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Song InterpretationThe song's lyrics encourage listeners to empathize with those who are downtrodden or overlooked, a theme prevalent in Steinbeck's novel.
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Live PerformancesIn many of Rage Against the Machine's live performances of "The Ghost of Tom Joad," Springsteen joined them on stage; both artists and versions were well received.
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Critics' ViewCritics tend to view "The Ghost of Tom Joad" as one of Springsteen's most political songs, addressing issues like poverty and social injustice.
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Most Notable PerformanceOne of the most notable performances of "The Ghost of Tom Joad" by Springsteen and Rage Against the Machine together was at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.
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Springsteen's Acoustic VersionThe original version of the song by Springsteen is a quiet, acoustic ballad which contrasts sharply with the heavy, electric version by Rage Against the Machine.
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Song's LegacyOver the years, the song has gained a lot of critical acclaim and popularity, and now it is seen as a classic of both Bruce Springsteen and Rage Against the Machine's discographies.
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Charitable PerformanceIn 2014, Springsteen and Tom Morello (of Rage Against the Machine) performed an acoustic version of the song at the annual Stand Up For Heroes benefit event.
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The VideoThe Rage Against the Machine version includes a music video that alternates between footage of Springsteen performing the song and images depicting the song's social themes.
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"Ghost of Tom Joad Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 2 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/5498056/Rage+Against+the+Machine/Ghost+of+Tom+Joad>.
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