The Day John Henry Died Lyrics

Lyric discussion by mikedmostd 

Cover art for The Day John Henry Died lyrics by Drive-By Truckers

John Henry has always represented the working class and its marginalization in the face of the industrial revolution. I love the juxtaposition of the black folk hero with the white auto baron known for the assembly line, harbinger of the coming obsession with efficiency.

Ultimately John's performance in the contest is meaningless. He wins the contest but dies and the machine slides seamlessly into his place. The work continues. A human cog exchanged for a metal one and nothing more.

My question is with the significance of going to LA. Any thoughts?