About the song
Jimmy Dean’s “Big Bad John” is a timeless country classic that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. Released in 1961, this ballad quickly became a chart-topping sensation, earning Dean a Grammy Award and solidifying his place in country music history.
The song tells the epic tale of a mysterious and formidable miner known simply as Big John. With his towering height, immense strength, and quiet demeanor, John is a figure of legend, his story reminiscent of American folklore heroes like Paul Bunyan and John Henry. The narrative unfolds with a sense of drama and suspense, as John risks his life to save his fellow miners from a collapsing mine, ultimately becoming a symbol of courage and selflessness.
Beyond its captivating story, “Big Bad John” is also notable for its musical impact. Dean’s powerful vocals deliver the song with a raw intensity, while the instrumentation, featuring a driving rhythm and haunting melody, perfectly complements the dramatic narrative. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, resonating with audiences of all ages.
In addition to its original version, “Big Bad John” has spawned a series of sequels that further explore the legend of the enigmatic miner. These follow-up songs, including “My Big John” and “The Cajun Queen,” offer additional insights into John’s life and relationships, expanding upon the rich tapestry of his story.
“Big Bad John” remains a cornerstone of country music, a song that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire and entertain listeners. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling, the enduring appeal of American folklore, and the timeless artistry of Jimmy Dean.
Video
Lyrics
Big John
Big John
Ev’ry mornin’ at the mine you could see him arrive
He stood six foot six and weighed 245
Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip
And everybody knew, ya didn’t give no lip to Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Nobody seemed to know where John called home
He just drifted into town and stayed all alone
He didn’t say much, he kinda quiet and shy
And if you spoke at all, he just said, “Hi” to Big John
Somebody said he came from New Orleans
Where he got in a fight over a Cajun Queen
And a crashin’ blow from a huge right hand
Sent a Louisiana fellow to the Promised Land, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Then came the day at the bottom of the mine
When a timber cracked and men started cryin’
Miners were prayin’ and hearts beat fast
And everybody thought that they’d breathed their last, ‘cept John
Through the dust and the smoke of this man-made hell
Walked a giant of a man that the miners knew well
Grabbed a saggin’ timber, gave out with a groan
And like a giant Oak tree, he just stood there alone, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
And with all of his strength he gave a mighty shove
Then a miner yelled out, “There’s a light up above”
And 20 men scrambled from a would-be grave
Now there’s only one left down there to save, Big John
With jacks and timbers they started back down
Then came that rumble way down in the ground
And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine
Everybody knew it was the end of the line for Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Now they never reopened that worthless pit
They just placed a marble stand in front of it
These few words are written on that stand
“At the bottom of this mine lies a big, big man, Big John”
Big Bad John
(Big John)
(Big John)
Big Bad John