BIG RIVER

BIG RIVER

“Big River” is a song written by Johnny Cash. Cash was a Grammy Award-winning

American country singer–songwriter. Cash is widely considered to be one of the most

influential American musicians of the 20th century. Cash was known for his deep,

distinctive bass–baritone voice, the “freight train” sound of his Tennessee Three backing

band, his demeanor, and his dark clothing, which earned him the nickname “The Man in

Black.” He traditionally started his concerts with the introduction “Hello, I’m Johnny

Cash!”

Now I taught the weeping willow how to cry,

And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.

And the tears that I cried for that woman is gonna flood you Big River.

Then I’m gonna sit right here until I die.

I met her accidentally in St. Paul (Minnesota).

And it tore me up every time I heard her drawl, Southern drawl.

Then I heard my dream was back Downstream cavortin’ in Davenport,

And I followed you, Big River, when you called.

Then you took me to St. Louis later on (down the river).

A freighter said she’s been here but she’s gone, boy, she’s gone.

I found her trail in Memphis, but she just walked up the block.

She raised a few eyebrows and then she went on down alone.

Now, won’t you batter down by Baton Rouge, River Queen, roll it on.

Take that woman on down to New Orleans, New Orleans.

Go on, I’ve had enough; dump my blues down in the gulf.

She loves you, Big River, more than me.

Now I taught the weeping willow how to cry, cry, cry

And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.

And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you Big River.

Then I’m gonna sit right here until I die

Banjo Mountain