John Denver：Meaning of Freight Train Boogie / Choo Choo Ch'Boogie Songmeaning

The song "Freight Train Boogie" or sometimes referred to as "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie" was not originally written or performed by John Denver. It is a classic blues and jump blues song that was written by Vaughn Horton, Denver Darling, and Milt Gabler. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including John Denver. The song tells the story of a man named Casey Jones, who was a legendary railroad engineer. Casey Jones was known for his skill in operating trains and was often referred to as a "mighty man." However, in this song, Casey Jones is said to be resting in the Promised Land, which suggests that he has passed away and is now at peace. Casey Jones is remembered for his understanding and control of the powerful locomotive, symbolized by the "eight-wheel driver under his command." He could make the freight train "boogie," indicating that he had a great sense of rhythm and could bring about a lively and energetic movement of the train as it traveled down the tracks. The lyrics also touch on the experience of traveling by train. The protagonist is tired of other modes of transportation and has a fondness for the "clickity-clack" rhythm of the train. They enjoy the sound of the whistle blowing and the sight of the smoke coming from the train's stack. Additionally, they mention meeting friendly individuals named Mac, implying a sense of camaraderie that can be found among those working on the railroad. The song lyrics shift to a different scenario, where the protagonist discusses reaching their destination and needing compensation to recover financially. They read the newspaper to understand the situation and find that there is only one job available, requiring a specific skill set. The protagonist wants to go back to their original vocation on the railroad, asking to be taken "right back to the track." "Choo choo ch'boogie" is an onomatopoeic phrase that represents the sounds of a train. It's a playful and rhythmic addition to the song, emphasizing the theme of the railroad and adding to its lively nature. John Denver's rendition of the song maintains the bluesy and upbeat feel, showcasing his talent as a singer and musician. While he was primarily known for his folk and country music, he incorporated various genres into his repertoire, including classics like "Freight Train Boogie."