About the song
Peter Paul & Mary, the iconic American folk trio, released their rendition of “Early Morning Rain” in 1966, cementing its place as a timeless classic. This haunting melody, with its evocative lyrics, has resonated with audiences for decades, touching hearts and minds with its raw emotion and poetic beauty.
Originally written by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot in 1965, “Early Morning Rain” is a poignant tale of heartbreak, loss, and the enduring power of memory. The song’s melancholic tone is perfectly captured by Peter Paul & Mary’s harmonies, which add depth and richness to the already evocative lyrics.
The opening lines, “Singing in the morning rain, a lonely heart is calling,” immediately set the scene for a mournful ballad. The imagery of a solitary figure singing in the rain evokes a sense of isolation and despair. As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the protagonist’s emotional turmoil, exploring themes of longing, regret, and the passage of time.
Peter, Paul, and Mary’s interpretations of Lightfoot’s lyrics are both heartfelt and understated. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious tapestry that complements the song’s melancholic mood. The trio’s ability to convey the emotional nuances of the lyrics is evident in their delivery, which is both passionate and restrained.
One of the most striking aspects of “Early Morning Rain” is its timeless quality. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the human condition are universal, resonating with listeners of all ages. The evocative imagery and haunting melody have ensured that the song remains relevant and enduring, even decades after its release.
In conclusion, Peter Paul & Mary’s rendition of “Early Morning Rain” is a masterpiece of folk music. Its haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and heartfelt performance have made it a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the trio or discovering their music for the first time, “Early Morning Rain” is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
In the early morning rain
With a dollar in my hand
With an achin’ in my heart
And my pockets full of sand
I’m a long way from home
And I miss my loved ones so
In the early morning rain
With no place to go
Out on runway number nine
Big 707 set to go
But I’m stuck here in the grass
Where the cold wind blows
Now, the liquor tasted good
And the women all were fast
Well, there she goes my friend
Well, she’s rollin’ down at last
Hear the mighty engines roar
See the silver bird on high
She’s away and westward bound
Far above the cloud, she’ll fly
Where the mornin’ rain don’t fall
And the sun always shines
She’ll be flyin’ o’er my home
In about three hours time
This old airport’s got me down
It’s no earthly good to me
‘Cause I’m stuck here on the ground
As cold and drunk as I can be
You can’t jump a jet plane
Like you can a freight train
So, I’d best be on the way
In the early morning rain
You can’t jump a jet plane
Like you can a freight train
So, I’d best be on the way
In the early morning rain