The Soggy Bottom Boys are a made-up bluegrass band from the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou?, released in 2000.
Their songs sound old-fashioned but still feel fun and fresh. Real musicians recorded the music, making it feel honest and powerful. The Soggy Bottom Boys helped more people enjoy folk and bluegrass music again.
They may be a movie band, but their sound continues to bring joy to many music lovers around the world.
About the Song
Man of Constant Sorrow is a traditional folk song that tells the story of a man who has lived a life full of pain and struggle.
Its lyrics speak of deep sorrow and loneliness, expressed in a clear and heartfelt way.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | December 5, 2000 |
| Album | O Brother, Where Art Thou? (Music from the Motion Picture) |
| Writer | Richard Burnett |
| Producer | T Bone Burnett |
Full Lyrics of Man of Constant Sorrow
Delmar & Pete
In constant sorrow through all his days
Verse 1: Ulysses Everett McGill
I am a man of constant sorrow
I’ve seen trouble all my days
I bid farewell to ol’ Kentucky
The place where I was born and raised
Delmar & Pete
The place where he was born and raised
Verse 2: Ulysses Everett McGill
For six long years I’ve been in trouble
No pleasure here on Earth I’ve found
For in this world I’m bound to ramble
I have no friends to help me now
Delmar & Pete
He has no friends to help him now
Verse 3: Ulysses Everett McGill
It’s fare thee well, my old true lover
I never expect to see you again
For I’m bound to ride that Northern Railroad
Perhaps I’ll die upon this train
Delmar & Pete
Perhaps he’ll die upon this train
Verse 4: Ulysses Everett McGill
You can bury me in some deep valley
For many years where I may lay
And you may learn to love another
While I am sleeping in my grave
Delmar & Pete
While he is sleeping in his grave
Verse 5: Ulysses Everett McGill
Maybe your friends think I’m just a stranger
My face you never will see no more
But there is one promise that is given
I’ll meet you on God’s golden shore
Delmar & Pete
He’ll meet you on God’s golden shore
Similar Songs Like Man of Constant Sorrow
If you enjoy the deep feeling and old-time sound of Man of Constant Sorrow, here are other songs with a similar vibe:
- Wayfaring Stranger: A soft and spiritual song about someone walking through life’s pain, looking forward to peace and rest in the afterlife.
- The Weight(Remastered): Telling short stories in each verse, this song mixes folk, rock, and gospel sounds in a peaceful and thoughtful way.
- House of the Rising Sun: Set in New Orleans, this song shares a warning from someone whose life was ruined by choices and bad luck.
- Paradise: This gentle tune remembers a lost hometown and the damage caused by mining, using simple words and real emotion.
Similar Artists Like The Soggy Bottom Boys
Here are some similar artists you might like. These artists have a strong connection to folk, country, and bluegrass, and offer songs with deep meaning and simple beauty:
- Alison Krauss & Union Station
Genre: Bluegrass, Country
Top Albums: New Favorite (2001), Lonely Runs Both Ways (2004), Paper Airplane (2011) - Ralph Stanley
Genre: Bluegrass, Gospel
Top Albums: Man of Constant Sorrow (2000), Clinch Mountain Gospel (2005), A Mother’s Prayer (2011) - Gillian Welch
Genre: Americana, Folk
Top Albums: Revival (1996), Time (The Revelator) (2001), The Harrow & The Harvest (2011) - Norman Blake
Genre: Bluegrass, Americana
Top Albums: Home in Sulphur Springs (1972), Whiskey Before Breakfast (1976), Back Home in Sulphur Springs (2006)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Music is Used in the Man of Constant Sorrow Song?
It uses bluegrass and folk sounds, with guitar, banjo, and strong singing.
What Role does Hope play in Man of Constant Sorrow Lyrics?
There is very little hope; the song mostly shares sadness and acceptance of fate.
