The duo had a successful musical career throughout the '30s and '40s and into the '50s. The Delmore Brothers toured and recorded until Rabon's death in 1952. After his brother's death Alton recorded some solo material, but achieved little commercial success. Alton died in 1964.
Field Hand Man
The Delmore Brothers Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Nothing but a plow will fit my hand
Trust in God and doing the best I can
What it′s like to be field hand man
I'm as happy as a prince so grand
In this lonesome delta land
I was born to make my life this way
Can′t be happy any other way
On the Mississippi river I'll stay
I can sing and drive my blues away
From this levee anyday
I'm so happy when the day is done
Than I know that I can have my fun
There are no more chores for me to run
Worries vanish with the setting sun
There′s alittle girl and only one
Waiting when the day is done
Yes John Henry was a steel drivin′ man
Drivin' steel over all this land
But he never could understand
All the pleasures of a field hand man
Don′t you worry about this old field hand
He's a happy happy man
The lyrics of The Delmore Brothers' song "Field Hand Man" explore the life of a field hand and the sense of contentment and fulfillment that he finds in his work. The field hand is depicted as someone who embraces their role in the agricultural world, finding joy in their labor and finding solace in their connection with nature.
The first verse reveals the dedication and faith of the field hand, who sees their work as a calling from God. They express their satisfaction with their role and emphasize that they do the best they can. The lonesome delta land mentioned in the lyrics represents the rural and isolated environment in which the field hand operates.
In the second verse, the field hand reflects on their upbringing and how they were destined for this way of life. They assert that they cannot find happiness or fulfillment in any other way. The mention of the Mississippi River adds to the imagery of the agricultural landscape, with the field hand expressing their connection to the river and their ability to find escapism through singing.
The final verse pays homage to John Henry, a legendary steel drivin' man known for his strength and dedication. However, the field hand asserts that John Henry could never truly understand the joys and pleasures of being a field hand. The song concludes with reassurance that the field hand is a happy person, free from worries and content in their chosen path.
Line by Line Meaning
Always working just a field hand man
I spend my days tirelessly working as a field hand, it's my life.
Nothing but a plow will fit my hand
My hands are made for gripping and working with a plow, it's my tool of choice.
Trust in God and doing the best I can
I have faith in God and I strive to do my best in all that I do.
What it's like to be field hand man
I embrace the experiences and challenges that come with being a field hand.
I'm as happy as a prince so grand
I find immense joy and contentment in my simple life, just like a prince in his palace.
In this lonesome delta land
I reside in a solitary, yet beautiful and fertile delta region.
I was born to make my life this way
My destiny was predetermined, and it is to live the life of a field hand.
From the dawn until the close of day
From the very start of the day until its end, I am dedicated to my work.
Can't be happy any other way
I have tried other paths, but none bring me the same happiness as being a field hand.
On the Mississippi river I'll stay
I am committed to staying alongside the Mississippi river, where my work takes place.
I can sing and drive my blues away
Through singing while I work, I can chase away any sadness or burden I may carry.
From this levee anyday
No matter what day it is, I find solace and contentment on this levee.
I'm so happy when the day is done
When the day comes to a close, I am filled with immense joy and satisfaction.
Than I know that I can have my fun
Once my work is done, I can indulge in activities that bring me enjoyment and pleasure.
There are no more chores for me to run
With all the tasks completed, there are no more responsibilities left for me to fulfill.
Worries vanish with the setting sun
As the sun sets, all my worries and anxieties fade away.
There's a little girl and only one
I have a daughter, she is my only child.
Waiting when the day is done
At the end of the day, my daughter eagerly awaits my return.
Yes John Henry was a steel drivin' man
John Henry was known for his strength and labor in driving steel.
Drivin' steel over all this land
He tirelessly worked to drive steel across vast expanses of land.
But he never could understand
However, he could never comprehend or appreciate
All the pleasures of a field hand man
the simple pleasures and fulfillment that come with being a field hand like me.
Don't you worry about this old field hand
There's no need to worry or feel sorry for me, I am content with my life.
He's a happy happy man
In fact, I am an exceedingly happy and content individual.
Writer(s): Rabon Delmore, Lois Mann, Alton Delmore
Contributed by Sebastian E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Globe2219
Greetings! It's good to hear this one again.
Jerry Johnson
These guys are great 🤯
Louis Spahr
Saved a bunch of 78s from the landfill. This gem was among them.
T4TEXASTOM JOHNNYCAT
Early strains of Rock-a-Billy, and ultimately ROCKnROLL.
Eternal Being33
Those photos are fitting.