Peter, Paul and Mary

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
And an aching in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
I'm a long way from home
And I missed my loved one so
In the early morning rain
With no place to go

[Verse 2]
Out on runway number nine
Big 707 set to go
But I'm out here on the grass
Where the pavement never grows
Well, the liquor tasted good
And the women all were fast
There she goes my friend
She's rolling down at last

[Verse 3]
Hear the mighty engine roar (Hear the mighty engine roar)
See the silver wing on high (See the silver wing on high)
She's away and westward bound
Far above the clouds she'll fly
Where the morning rain don't fall
And the sun always shines
She'll be flying over my home
In about three hours time
[Verse 4]
This old airport's got me down
It's no earthly good to me
'Cause I'm stuck here on the ground
Cold and drunk as I might be
Can't jump a jet plane (Can't jump a plane)
Like you can a freight train (Like a freight train)
So I'd best be on my way
In the early morning rain
So I'd best be on my way
In the early morning rainEmbed

Early Morning Rain is a folk song written by Gordon Lightfoot in 1964, famously covered by Peter, Paul and Mary. It is a melancholic tune about a man's reflections on his life as he watches the rain pour down outside his window in the early hours of the morning. The song is hauntingly beautiful and has stood the test of time, captivating audiences for over five decades.

About Early Morning Rain

Gordon Lightfoot wrote Early Morning Rain in 1964, inspired by his experiences as a struggling musician in New York City. It tells the story of a man who is left heartbroken after his lover leaves him, and he has to leave his home to start a new life. The man ends up watching the rain pour down outside his window in the early hours of the morning, reflecting on the choices he has made, and the life he has led. It is a beautifully written song that conveys the emotion of heartbreak and longing.

Peter, Paul and Mary released their cover of this song in 1965 and made it a classic. Their version is a powerful interpretation of the song, with their trademark harmonies and the unique sound of the folk genre. The arrangement is simple, with just an acoustic guitar and a bass, but it is the vocal delivery that makes this rendition outstanding. Mary Travers's emotive vocals, in particular, are a standout feature of the song.

The song's lyrics capture the essence of the folk genre, with its focus on storytelling and conveying the human experience. It is a poignant commentary on the struggle of the working class and the transience of life. It exemplifies the spirit and message of the 1960s, which was a time of social upheaval and change.

Moreover, the song is notable for its intricate guitar picking, which is a hallmark of Gordon Lightfoot's style. The guitar is the backbone of the song, and it is what gives the melody its melancholic feel.

Early Morning Rain has been covered by several other artists over the years, including Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young. Each artist has brought their unique interpretation to the song, which is a testament to its enduring appeal.

The song has also been used in numerous films and television shows, most notably in the classic film "Pulp Fiction." The song's evocative lyrics and its timeless melody make it a perfect choice for filmmakers looking to create a moody, atmospheric scene.

In essence, Early Morning Rain is a timeless classic that has captivated generations of music lovers. It is a powerful work of art that beautifully captures the essence of the folk tradition, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal.

• Release Date: 1965
• Artist: Peter, Paul and Mary