About the song
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” by Loretta Lynn is more than just a song; it’s an autobiographical anthem that tells the poignant story of Lynn’s upbringing in rural Kentucky. Released in 1970 as the title track of her album “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” this song has cemented Lynn’s place in country music history.
Written by Loretta Lynn herself, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” provides a vivid narrative of her childhood in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky. The song paints a picture of her family’s struggles and triumphs, with her father working tirelessly in the coal mines to provide for his family. Lynn’s heartfelt lyrics and genuine delivery resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of American resilience and the humble beginnings from which many great stories arise.
The album “Coal Miner’s Daughter” was a significant milestone in Lynn’s career, showcasing her ability not only as a performer but as a songwriter. The song quickly became one of her signature hits and climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its success helped the album achieve Gold status, further solidifying Lynn’s influence in the music industry.
Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter” has been recognized as a timeless classic, receiving numerous accolades over the years. In 2010, the Library of Congress added it to the National Recording Registry, ensuring its preservation as an important part of America’s cultural heritage. Additionally, the song inspired a best-selling autobiography of the same name and a 1980 film, in which Sissy Spacek’s portrayal of Lynn won her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” remains an enduring testament to Loretta Lynn’s legacy, celebrating the spirit of hard work, family values, and the pursuit of dreams despite humble beginnings. Its impact on country music and popular culture is undeniable, making it a cherished piece of American musical history.
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Lyrics
Well, I was borned a coal miner’s daughter
In a cabin, on a hill in Butcher Holler
We were poor but we had love
That’s the one thing that daddy made sure of
He shoveled coal to make a poor man’s dollar
My daddy worked all night in the Van Lear coal mines
All day long in the field a hoin’ corn
Mommy rocked the babies at night
And read the Bible by the coal oil light
And ever’ thing would start all over come break of morn’
Daddy loved and raised eight kids on a miner’s pay
Mommy scrubbed our clothes on a washboard every day
Why, I’ve seen her fingers bleed
To complain, there was no need
She’d smile in mommy’s understanding way
In the summertime we didn’t have shoes to wear
But in the wintertime we’d all get a brand new pair
From a mail order catalog
Money made from selling a hog
Daddy always managed to get the money somewhere
Yeah, I’m proud to be a coal miner’s daughter
I remember well, the well where I drew water
The work we done was hard
At night we’d sleep ’cause we were tired
Never thought of ever leaving Butcher Holler
Well, a lot of things have changed since a way back then
Ah, and it’s so good to be back home again
Not much left but the floors, nothing lives here anymore
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter