About the song
“Big Bad John” by Jimmy Dean is a classic country ballad that has left an indelible mark on American music. Written and performed by Jimmy Dean, the song was released in 1961 as a single and later included in his album “Big Bad John and Other Fabulous Songs and Tales.” The song quickly climbed the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot Country Singles chart, making it one of the most memorable hits of its time.
Jimmy Dean, a versatile entertainer known for his rich baritone voice and storytelling prowess, crafted “Big Bad John” with a compelling narrative that captured the imaginations of listeners. The song tells the story of a heroic miner named John, a giant of a man with a reputation for strength and stoicism. According to the lyrics, John saves his fellow miners during a cave-in, sacrificing his own life to ensure their safety. The refrain, “Big John, Big John,” became instantly recognizable, cementing the song’s status as a timeless classic.
The origins of “Big Bad John” are rooted in Dean’s knack for storytelling and his ability to connect with audiences through vivid, relatable tales. The song’s narrative style and straightforward melody made it accessible and appealing, leading to its rapid ascent on the charts. It sold over a million copies and earned Dean a Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording.
“Big Bad John” also enjoyed international success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK. Its universal themes of bravery, sacrifice, and heroism resonated with people worldwide, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Beyond its musical success, “Big Bad John” solidified Jimmy Dean’s place in country music history. Dean, who would later become a successful businessman and television host, always considered the song one of his greatest achievements. Its legacy continues to live on, often featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, introducing new generations to its powerful story.
For those who lived through its original release, “Big Bad John” is a nostalgic reminder of the early 1960s, a time when storytelling through music was at its peak. For newer listeners, it remains a compelling example of how a simple, well-told story can capture the heart and imagination, transcending time and trends.
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Lyrics
Big John
Big John
Ev’ry mornin’ at the mine you could see him arrive
He stood six foot six and weighed 245
Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip
And everybody knew, ya didn’t give no lip to Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Nobody seemed to know where John called home
He just drifted into town and stayed all alone
He didn’t say much, he kinda quiet and shy
And if you spoke at all, he just said, “Hi” to Big John
Somebody said he came from New Orleans
Where he got in a fight over a Cajun Queen
And a crashin’ blow from a huge right hand
Sent a Louisiana fellow to the Promised Land, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Then came the day at the bottom of the mine
When a timber cracked and men started cryin’
Miners were prayin’ and hearts beat fast
And everybody thought that they’d breathed their last, ‘cept John
Through the dust and the smoke of this man-made hell
Walked a giant of a man that the miners knew well
Grabbed a saggin’ timber, gave out with a groan
And like a giant Oak tree, he just stood there alone, Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
And with all of his strength he gave a mighty shove
Then a miner yelled out, “There’s a light up above”
And 20 men scrambled from a would-be grave
Now there’s only one left down there to save, Big John
With jacks and timbers they started back down
Then came that rumble way down in the ground
And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine
Everybody knew it was the end of the line for Big John
Big Bad John
(Big John)
Now they never reopened that worthless pit
They just placed a marble stand in front of it
These few words are written on that stand
“At the bottom of this mine lies a big, big man, Big John”
Big Bad John
(Big John)
(Big John)
Big Bad John