About the song
“Sixteen Tons” by The Platters is a notable track that showcases the group’s versatility and their ability to tackle a wide range of musical styles. Released in 1956, this song stands out not only for its compelling melody and lyrics but also for its unique place in The Platters’ diverse discography.
The song was originally written and recorded by Tennessee Ernie Ford in 1955, becoming a major hit and a classic in its own right. Ford’s version of “Sixteen Tons” captured the working-class ethos and hardship of coal miners with a powerful delivery. However, The Platters’ rendition of the song offered a different, more polished interpretation, reflecting their characteristic smooth harmonies and vocal sophistication.
The Platters’ version was produced by the group’s manager, Buck Ram, who played a crucial role in shaping their musical direction. Under Ram’s guidance, The Platters brought a distinctive style to “Sixteen Tons,” incorporating their rich vocal arrangements and adding a touch of elegance to the song’s gritty narrative.
In terms of chart performance, The Platters’ “Sixteen Tons” achieved notable success. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. This success highlights the song’s wide appeal and The Platters’ ability to connect with audiences across different musical genres.
The track was featured on the album The Platters, which was released in 1956. This album includes a variety of the group’s hits from that period, with “Sixteen Tons” standing out due to its unique arrangement and The Platters’ exceptional vocal performance.
Overall, “Sixteen Tons” by The Platters is a fascinating example of the group’s versatility and their talent for interpreting songs across different styles. The song’s success and its place in The Platters’ body of work underscore their significant contribution to the evolution of popular music during the 1950s.
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Lyrics
Some people say a man is made outta mud
A poor man’s made outta muscle and blood
Muscle and blood, and skin and bone
A mind that’s a-weak and a back that’s strong
You load 16 tons, and what do you gain?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don’t you call me ’cause I can’t go
I owe my soul to the company store
I was born one mornin’ when the sun didn’t shine
I picked up my shovel and I walked to the mine
I loaded 16 tons of number nine coal
And the straw boss said, “Well, a-bless my soul”
You load 16 tons, and what do you gain?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don’t you call me ’cause I can’t go
I owe my soul to the company store
If you see me comin’, better step aside
A lotta men didn’t, and a lotta men died
One fist of iron, the other of steel
If the right one don’t a-get you, then the left one will
You load 16 tons, and what do you gain?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don’t you call me ’cause I can’t go
I owe my soul to the company store
I was born one mornin’, and it was drizzlin’ rain
Fightin’ and trouble are my middle name
I was raised in the canebrake by an ol’ mama lion
Ain’t no-a high-toned woman make me walk the line
You load 16 tons, and what do you gain?
Another day older and deeper in debt
Saint Peter, don’t you call me ’cause I can’t go
I owe my soul to the company store