About the song
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” by Loretta Lynn is a heartfelt and autobiographical country song that has become an iconic representation of American country music. Released in 1970, it was both written and performed by Loretta Lynn herself, showcasing her exceptional talent not just as a singer but also as a songwriter. This song is a vivid narrative of her early life in Butcher Hollow, Kentucky, where she was raised in a humble, coal-mining family.
Featured on the album of the same name, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” captures the essence of Lynn’s roots and the struggles and triumphs of her upbringing. The song’s lyrics paint a detailed picture of her family’s poverty and resilience, creating a deeply relatable and poignant story for many listeners. It’s a tribute to her parents’ hard work and the simple, yet rich life they provided despite economic hardships.
The single achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1970. Its popularity extended beyond the charts, as the song became a defining piece of Loretta Lynn’s career and a staple in country music history. The album itself also enjoyed commercial success and critical acclaim, further cementing Lynn’s place as a leading figure in country music.
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” has had a lasting impact, not only in the music industry but also in popular culture. It inspired the 1980 biographical film of the same name, in which Sissy Spacek’s portrayal of Lynn earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. This song remains a beloved classic, reflecting the authentic voice of Loretta Lynn and her ability to convey the genuine hardships and joys of her life through music.
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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