American traditional folk music comes from simple songs passed down by everyday people. These songs often tell stories about work, love, family, and life in early America. They were sung in homes, on farms, and in work camps long before radios or recordings existed.
This kind of music usually uses plain melodies and easy words, so people of all ages can sing along. It relies on acoustic instruments like banjos, guitars, and fiddles. Most songs were created by unknown writers and changed slightly as they were shared from town to town.
About the Song
I’ve Been Working on the Railroad is a cheerful American folk song about the hard work of building and maintaining railroads.
It holds the sounds and spirit of railroad life, including the whistle blowing and calls to “Dinah” to blow her horn. The song also includes a playful section about someone strumming on the old banjo, adding a fun, musical feel.
I’ve Been Working on The Railroad Lyrics
I’ve been workin’ on the railroad,
All the live long day.
I’ve been workin’ on the railroad,
Just to pass the time away.
Can’t you hear the whistle blowing?
Rise up so early in the morn.
Can’t you hear the captain shoutin’
“Dinah, blow your horn?”
Dinah, won’t you blow,
Dinah, won’t you blow,
Dinah, won’t you blow your horn, you horn?
Dinah, won’t you blow,
Dinah, won’t you blow,
Dinah, won’t you blow your horn?
Hey, someone’s in the kitchen with Dinah.
Someone’s in the kitchen, I know.
Someone’s in the kitchen with Dinah
Strumming on the old banjo.
And singing, fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o.
Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o-o-o-o.
Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o.
Strumming on the old banjo.
Similar Songs Like I’ve Been Working on The Railroad
If you enjoy classic American folk songs that tell stories of work or travel, here are a few more you might like:
- She’ll Be Coming ’Round the Mountain: This lively tune tells of a woman arriving by train, inviting everyone to join in with fun verses and actions.
- Oh! Susanna: Stephen Foster’s catchy song about traveling far became popular during the Gold Rush and remains a joyful folk favorite.
- This Land Is Your Land: Woody Guthrie celebrates America’s beauty and equality, encouraging everyone to feel proud and included.
- Erie Canal: Workers and mules on New York’s canal share their story in this song about teamwork and adventure.
- Home On the Range: Cowboys sing about peaceful prairies and simple joys, painting a calm picture of life on the open range.
Notable Versions of the Song by Different Artists
Over the years, numerous artists and groups have recorded their interpretations of this classic folk tune. While the lyrics and melody remain mostly the same, each version has its unique style, ranging from those geared towards kids to more traditional or upbeat ones.
- John Denver
- Pete Seeger
- The Chipmunks and David Seville
- ABCmouse
- Cocomelon
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Wrote I’ve Been Working on the Railroad?
The exact writer is unknown. It first appeared in print in the late 1800s as part of American folk tradition.
Why is I’ve Been Working on the Railroad Still Used Today?
Its easy rhythm and repetitive lyrics make it useful in classrooms and music programs.
When was I’ve Been Working on the Railroad First Published?
A version titled “Levee Song” appeared in a Princeton University songbook in 1894, making it one of the earliest known publications.
