About the song
Loretta Lynn: A Coal Miner’s Daughter
Loretta Lynn’s autobiographical song, “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” released in 1970, is more than just a country music hit; it’s a poignant testament to the American Dream, the struggles of working-class families, and the triumph of the human spirit. The song, which topped the Billboard Country Singles chart, is a heartfelt narrative of Lynn’s humble beginnings growing up in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky, the daughter of a coal miner.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of Lynn’s childhood. She sings about her father’s hard work in the coal mines, the simplicity of rural life, and the challenges faced by families during the Great Depression. The chorus, “I was born a coal miner’s daughter, and I’ll never forget where I came from,” is both a declaration of pride and a reminder of her roots.
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” resonates with listeners on multiple levels. It’s a story of perseverance and determination, themes that have always held a special place in the American psyche. The song also serves as a tribute to the working class, celebrating their strength and resilience. Beyond its personal narrative, the song offers a glimpse into a bygone era, capturing the spirit of rural America in the mid-20th century.
One of the reasons for the song’s enduring popularity is Lynn’s authentic delivery. Her voice, with its distinctive Appalachian twang, lends a raw and emotional quality to the lyrics. The song’s simple yet powerful melody, combined with Lynn’s heartfelt performance, has made it a country music classic.
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” was also the inspiration for a critically acclaimed biographical film of the same name, released in 1980, which starred Sissy Spacek as Loretta Lynn. The film won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress for Spacek, and further solidified Lynn’s status as a cultural icon.
In conclusion, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has resonated with generations of listeners. It’s a story of struggle, success, and the enduring power of the American Dream. The song’s themes of family, hard work, and perseverance continue to inspire and uplift audiences today.
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Lyrics
Well, I was borned a coal miner’s daughter
In a cabin, on a hill in Butcher Holler
We were poor but we had love
That’s the one thing that daddy made sure of
He shoveled coal to make a poor man’s dollar
My daddy worked all night in the Van Lear coal mines
All day long in the field a hoin’ corn
Mommy rocked the babies at night
And read the Bible by the coal oil light
And ever’ thing would start all over come break of morn’
Daddy loved and raised eight kids on a miner’s pay
Mommy scrubbed our clothes on a washboard every day
Why, I’ve seen her fingers bleed
To complain, there was no need
She’d smile in mommy’s understanding way
In the summertime we didn’t have shoes to wear
But in the wintertime we’d all get a brand new pair
From a mail order catalog
Money made from selling a hog
Daddy always managed to get the money somewhere
Yeah, I’m proud to be a coal miner’s daughter
I remember well, the well where I drew water
The work we done was hard
At night we’d sleep ’cause we were tired
Never thought of ever leaving Butcher Holler
Well, a lot of things have changed since a way back then
Ah, and it’s so good to be back home again
Not much left but the floors, nothing lives here anymore
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter