Johnny B.Goode
7. Chuck Berry Lyrics
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Way back up in the woods among the evergreens
There stood a log cabin made of earth and wood
Where lived a country boy named Johnny B. Goode
Who never ever learned to read or write so well
But he could play a guitar just like a-ringin' a bell
Go go
Go Johnny go go
Go Johnny go go
Go Johnny go go
Johnny B. Goode
He used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack
Go sit beneath the tree by the railroad track
Oh, the engineers would see him sitting in the shade
Strumming with the rhythm that the drivers made
People passing by, they would stop and say
"Oh my that little country boy could play"
Go go
Go Johnny go go
Go Johnny go go
Go Johnny go go
Go Johnny go go
Johnny B. Goode
His mother told him "Someday you will be a man
And you will be the leader of a big old band
Many people coming from miles around
To hear you play your music when the sun go down
Maybe someday your name will be in lights
Saying "Johnny B. Goode tonight"
Go go
Go Johnny go
Go go go Johnny go
Go go go Johnny go
Go go go Johnny go
Go
Johnny B. Goode
The lyrics of Johnny B. Goode, a rock and roll classic by Chuck Berry, are an ode to the spirit of an American dreamer, who despite his humble beginnings and lack of formal education, becomes a musical sensation through his talent, perseverance, and passion. The opening lines set the scene in Louisiana, where a log cabin in the woods is the birthplace of Johnny B. Goode, a country boy who learned to play the guitar with soul and style. The chorus of the song is a declaration of his greatness and a call to action for the listeners to join his energy and enthusiasm.
The second stanza relates to the image of Johnny carrying his guitar in a gunny sack to his favorite spot, under a tree by the railroad track, where he is inspired by the sounds of the trains passing by. His music attracts the attention of people who admire his skills and dedication, and recognize the uniqueness of his sound. This verse captures the essence of a rebellious and creative youth culture, that challenges the conventions of the mainstream and creates its own identity.
The final verse speaks to the universal desire to achieve success and recognition, and the support and encouragement that a mother can provide to her child's dreams. The prospect of Johnny becoming a leader of a band that draws crowds and acclaim, and having his name in lights, is a testament to the power of imagination and belief. Overall, Johnny B. Goode is a tribute to the magic of rock and roll as a force of liberation and expression, that transforms lives and cultures.
Line by Line Meaning
Deep down in Louisiana close to New Orleans
In the southern region of Louisiana, near the city of New Orleans.
Way back up in the woods among the evergreens
Far away, in the forest, surrounded by tall trees that keep their leaves year-round.
There stood a log cabin made of earth and wood
A small house constructed from materials found in the surrounding countryside.
Where lived a country boy named Johnny B. Goode
A young man who grew up in rural America, known by the name Johnny B. Goode.
Who never ever learned to read or write so well
Despite a lack of formal education, Johnny had a natural talent for playing music.
But he could play a guitar just like a-ringin' a bell
Johnny was an exceptional guitar player, with a sound that was clear and vibrant.
Go go
An exclamation to encourage Johnny to continue playing.
Go Johnny go go
An enthusiastic chant to motivate Johnny to play even better.
He used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack
Johnny transported his guitar in a burlap bag often used for carrying produce.
Go sit beneath the tree by the railroad track
Johnny liked to rest beneath a tree near the train tracks, where he could hear the rhythm of the locomotive.
Oh, the engineers would see him sitting in the shade
The train operators noticed Johnny relaxing in the shadowy area under the tree.
Strumming with the rhythm that the drivers made
Johnny played his guitar in time with the sounds created by the passing trains.
People passing by, they would stop and say
Those who happened to cross Johnny's path would pause to listen to his music.
"Oh my that little country boy could play"
"Wow, that young man from the countryside is an incredibly talented musician."
His mother told him "Someday you will be a man
Johnny's mother had faith that her son would grow up and succeed in life.
And you will be the leader of a big old band
She envisioned Johnny as the frontman of a large musical group.
Many people coming from miles around
Large crowds would travel far and wide to hear Johnny play his music.
To hear you play your music when the sun go down
People were particularly keen to hear Johnny perform when the sun had set, and it was dark outside.
Maybe someday your name will be in lights
Johnny's mother dreamed of him becoming famous, with his name in bright lights on a marquee.
Saying "Johnny B. Goode tonight"
Those bright lights would showcase the name "Johnny B. Goode," indicating that he was performing that evening.
Go go
The encouragement continues, with the crowd cheering Johnny on.
Go Johnny go
The crowd wants Johnny to keep playing, and he's happy to oblige.
Go go go Johnny go
An even more enthusiastic chant, urging Johnny to play with energy and passion.
Go go go Johnny go
The crowd won't stop calling for more, and Johnny is happy to deliver.
Go
A final burst of applause, as the crowd expresses their love for Johnny's music.
Johnny B. Goode
The name that Johnny's mother had envisioned for her son, and the one under which he had become famous.
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
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