About the song
**Long Train Runnin’ · The Doobie Brothers**
The Doobie Brothers, a band known for their blend of rock, country, and blues, released their iconic track “Long Train Runnin'” in 1973. This upbeat, catchy tune quickly became a staple of classic rock radio and continues to resonate with audiences today.
The song’s infectious melody and driving rhythm create a sense of forward momentum, perfectly capturing the image of a speeding train. The lyrics, written by Tom Johnston, paint a vivid picture of a carefree journey, filled with adventure and excitement. The opening lines, “Well, I got on board a long, long train, headed for nowhere,” set the stage for a tale of escapism and the desire to leave behind the everyday grind.
One of the song’s most striking features is the interplay between the electric guitar and the pedal steel guitar. The electric guitar provides a solid, driving foundation, while the pedal steel adds a touch of country twang that complements the song’s overall feel. The harmonies between the two instruments create a rich and textured sound that is both nostalgic and modern.
The Doobie Brothers’ vocal harmonies are also a highlight of the song. The voices of Johnston, Patrick Simmons, and Michael McDonald blend seamlessly, creating a powerful and uplifting chorus. The way they sing the line, “Well, I’m just riding along, singing a song, feeling so fine,” conveys a sense of pure joy and contentment.
“Long Train Runnin'” is more than just a catchy tune; it is a timeless piece of music that captures the spirit of the 1970s and continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its infectious melody, driving rhythm, and evocative lyrics make it a classic that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Down around the corner
Half a mile from here
See them long trains runnin’
And you watch ’em disappear
Without love
Where would you be now?
(Without love)
Know I saw Miss Lucy
Down along the tracks
She lost her home and her family
And she won’t be coming back
Without love
Where would you be right now?
(Without love)
Well, the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central freight
Got to keep on pushin’ mama
‘Cause you know they’re runnin’ late
Without love
Where would you be now, na-na-now?
(Without love)
Well, the Illinois Central
And the Southern Central freight
Got to keep on pushin’ mama
You know they’re runnin’ late
Without love
Where would you be now?
(Without love)
Well, pistons keep on churnin’
And the wheels go ’round and ’round
And the steel rails lie cold
And hard on the mountains they go down
Without love
Where would you be right now?
(Without love)
Ooh, where would you be now?
Mmm, got to get you baby-baby
Won’t you move it down?
Won’t you move it down?
Baby-baby-baby-baby
Won’t you move it down?
When the big train run
When the train I’m movin’ on
I got to keep on movin’
Keep on movin’
Won’t you keep on movin’?
Won’t you keep on movin’?