About the song
In the annals of country music, few songs have captured the American imagination quite like Jimmy Dean’s “Big Bad John.” Released in 1961, this ballad quickly became a cultural phenomenon, its narrative resonating with audiences of all ages.
At its core, “Big Bad John” is a tale of heroism, sacrifice, and the enduring power of myth. The song introduces us to a towering, enigmatic miner who, despite his intimidating size, is a man of quiet strength and courage. When a mine collapse threatens the lives of his fellow workers, John emerges as a true hero, risking his own life to save others.
The song’s narrative echoes the archetypal American folk hero, a figure often associated with extraordinary physical prowess and a deep-seated sense of duty. Think of Paul Bunyan, John Henry, or even Davy Crockett: larger-than-life characters who embody the spirit of the American frontier.
Beyond its heroic themes, “Big Bad John” is also a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Dean’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of the mine, the danger, and the unwavering resolve of its protagonist. The song’s simple, melodic structure serves as a perfect vehicle for this timeless tale.
The legacy of “Big Bad John” extends far beyond its initial popularity. The song has been covered by countless artists, inspiring a generation of musicians and songwriters. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to tap into universal themes of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
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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