Joe Cocker's song "St. James Infirmary" is a rendition of a traditional American folk song that has been interpreted by various artists over the years. The song tells the story of a person who goes to St. James Infirmary, a hospital or a morgue, to see their deceased lover. In the lyrics, the protagonist describes finding their "baby" lying on a cold white table, indicating that their loved one has passed away. They express their sadness and longing for their departed lover, wishing them to rest in peace and remarking that no one else can compare to them. The second part of the song, beginning with the lines, "When I die, you can bury me," shifts the focus to the protagonist's own mortality and funeral arrangements. They request to be dressed in simple attire, with a hat and a gold piece on their watch chain, symbolizing certain aspects of their identity even after death. The song carries themes of loss, grief, and the uniqueness of love. Each rendition may have variations in lyrics, but the overall story remains the same. Joe Cocker's version adds his distinct soulful and emotive vocal style to the song, giving it a heartfelt and haunting quality.
