About The Song
“Freight Train”, written and performed by Elizabeth Cotten, is one of the most iconic songs in the folk and blues genres, and it remains a timeless example of the power of simple, heartfelt storytelling. First recorded in 1956 when Cotten was in her 60s, this song is a striking reflection of her distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and lyrical approach to life’s trials. With its soothing melody and poignant lyrics, “Freight Train” continues to resonate with audiences, both for its emotional depth and for the remarkable story behind its creation.
Elizabeth Cotten was a self-taught musician, known for her unique left-handed guitar playing, which involved playing upside-down and backwards. This method gave her playing a distinctive sound that was both delicate and deep. Her life story is one of resilience and perseverance, having written “Freight Train” at the age of 11, but only gaining recognition for it later in life. Cotten’s music often spoke to themes of longing, freedom, and escape, and “Freight Train” encapsulates these themes beautifully. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a person who dreams of escaping their circumstances, with the metaphor of a train representing the desire for freedom and a life on the open road.
The song’s fingerpicking guitar style is one of its most distinctive features. Cotten’s ability to blend rhythmic simplicity with intricate melody was groundbreaking at the time, and her guitar technique remains an influence on generations of musicians. The “Freight Train” riff is hypnotic and soothing, and its repetitive nature enhances the feeling of journey and movement, mimicking the sound of a train rolling down the tracks. The combination of Cotten’s soft, yet commanding, vocals and her expressive guitar playing creates a hauntingly beautiful listening experience, where the listener is invited to imagine the freedom and restlessness the song conveys.
Lyrically, “Freight Train” is a reflection on the yearning for escape and the bittersweet desire to leave behind life’s troubles. The train, which in many ways symbolizes both escape and uncertainty, serves as a metaphor for seeking a better life or seeking solace away from one’s struggles. Cotten’s straightforward lyrics are poignant in their simplicity, and the quiet vulnerability of her voice allows the emotions behind the song to resonate deeply with anyone who listens.
When “Freight Train” was recorded and released by Cotten, it was groundbreaking in its use of folk music to address themes of freedom and longing. Though the song gained wider recognition later, it became a staple in the folk repertoire, covered by a range of artists, including Peter, Paul and Mary and The Trio (Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, and Emmylou Harris), helping to cement its place in the American folk tradition. It has been lauded for its timeless delivery and for its deep, evocative sound, making it a song that continues to be passed down through generations.
Today, “Freight Train” is a quintessential folk song, cherished for both its simplicity and its deep emotional resonance. Cotten’s contribution to American folk music remains immense, and her work as a pioneering woman in a male-dominated genre has inspired countless musicians and songwriters. With “Freight Train,” Cotten created a musical and lyrical masterpiece that has transcended time and continues to evoke feelings of both nostalgia and hope. Through its captivating guitar lines and heartfelt storytelling, “Freight Train” remains a classic that speaks to the universal desire for freedom and escape.