About the song
“Big Bad John” is a classic country music ballad, made popular by the singer-songwriter Jimmy Dean in 1961. This iconic song tells the story of a larger-than-life character, John, who is known for his toughness and his willingness to stand up for what’s right. Dean’s powerful vocals and the song’s dramatic storytelling make it a timeless piece of country music history.
The song begins with a vivid description of John, a “big, strong man” who is feared by many. However, despite his tough exterior, John is ultimately a good-hearted man who is always willing to help those in need. When a local bully threatens the town’s schoolteacher, John steps in to defend her, leading to a climactic showdown.
The chorus of the song, “Big Bad John, he’s a mighty man, a bigger than life, kind of man,” captures the essence of John’s character. He is both feared and respected, and his actions have a profound impact on the people around him.
Dean’s performance of “Big Bad John” is both powerful and emotive. His deep, resonant voice brings the character of John to life, making him a truly memorable figure. The song’s simple, yet effective melody and the driving rhythm of the band create a sense of tension and excitement, making the listener feel as if they are right there in the middle of the action.
“Big Bad John” remains a popular song today, and it continues to be a favorite among country music fans of all ages. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to tell a compelling story and to create a character who is both larger than life and deeply human.
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Lyrics
Big John
Big John
Ev’ry mornin’ at the mine you could see him arrive
He stood six foot six and weighed 245
Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip
And everybody knew, ya didn’t give no lip to Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Nobody seemed to know where John called home
He just drifted into town and stayed all alone
He didn’t say much, he kinda quiet and shy
And if you spoke at all, he just said, “Hi” to Big John
Somebody said he came from New Orleans
Where he got in a fight over a Cajun Queen
And a crashin’ blow from a huge right hand
Sent a Louisiana fellow to the Promised Land, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Then came the day at the bottom of the mine
When a timber cracked and men started cryin’
Miners were prayin’ and hearts beat fast
And everybody thought that they’d breathed their last, ‘cept John
Through the dust and the smoke of this man-made hell
Walked a giant of a man that the miners knew well
Grabbed a saggin’ timber, gave out with a groan
And like a giant Oak tree, he just stood there alone, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
And with all of his strength he gave a mighty shove
Then a miner yelled out, “There’s a light up above”
And 20 men scrambled from a would-be grave
Now there’s only one left down there to save, Big John
With jacks and timbers they started back down
Then came that rumble way down in the ground
And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine
Everybody knew it was the end of the line for Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Now they never reopened that worthless pit
They just placed a marble stand in front of it
These few words are written on that stand
“At the bottom of this mine lies a big, big man, Big John”
Big Bad John
(Big John)
(Big John)
Big Bad John