About the song
“500 Miles,” performed by the legendary Joan Baez, is a song that has touched the hearts of countless listeners over the years with its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. Joan Baez, an iconic figure in folk music, is renowned for her powerful voice and her ability to convey deep emotions through her songs. This particular track, “500 Miles,” is a classic example of her unique talent.
The song is a heartfelt expression of longing and solitude, resonating with anyone who has ever felt the ache of separation or the burden of distance. The lyrics tell the story of someone who is far from home, lamenting the miles that separate them from their loved ones. With each verse, the sense of distance becomes almost tangible, creating a vivid picture of the emotional landscape of the wanderer.
Baez’s rendition of “500 Miles” is especially moving due to her distinctive voice, which carries a sense of earnestness and sincerity that is hard to replicate. Her interpretation brings a timeless quality to the song, making it not only a reflection of personal heartache but also a universal experience of yearning and nostalgia.
In an era where many songs are driven by flashy production and contemporary themes, “500 Miles” stands out as a testament to the enduring power of simple, yet profound storytelling through music. Joan Baez’s performance invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with separation and longing, and her version of the song continues to be cherished by those who appreciate the rich tradition of folk music. Whether you are revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, Joan Baez’s “500 Miles” is sure to leave a lasting impression with its emotional depth and timeless resonance.
Video
Lyrics
If you miss the train I’m on, you will know that I am gone
You can hear the whistle blow a hundred miles,
A hundred miles, a hundred miles, a hundred miles, a hundred miles,
You can hear the whistle blow a hundred miles.Lord I’m one, Lord I’m two, Lord I’m three, Lord I’m four,
Lord I’m 500 miles from my home.
Away from home, away from home, away from home, away from home
Lord I’m five hundred miles from my home.Not a shirt on my back, not a penny to my name
Lord I can’t go back-home this a-way
This a-away, this a-way, this a-way, this a-way,
Lord I can’t go back-home this a-way.If you miss the train I’m on you will know that I am gone
You can hear the whistle blow a hundred miles.