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Jimmie Rodgers Blues
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Aug 13, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Song Meaning
Merle Haggard's "Train Whistle Blues" is a traditional blues song expressing deep sorrow and weariness. The narrator laments harsh treatment, feeling so low that he wishes he were dead, and has no place to rest. He describes the world as blue and his lack of money and direction. The song also includes verses about a woman who gives him the blues and a playful reference to her "Stingaree." While it touches on feelings of despair, it does not contain Christian themes or references to God, faith, or redemption. The song is a secular blues lament, not a gospel or Christian piece.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
The way I've been treated sometimes I wish I were dead
Ah, the way I've been treated sometimes I wish I were dead
I ain't got no place to lay my weary head
I feel so bad the whole round world looks blue
Lord, I feel so bad the whole round world looks blue
I ain't got no money, I don't know what to do
Yes, yes
Look yonder coming, coming down that railroad track
Look yonder coming, coming down that railroad track
See that black smoke floating, floating from that old smoke stack
Play the dobro, yes
Lord, there's something 'bout you mama sure give me the blues
Lord, there's something 'bout you mama sure give me the blues
Lord, it ain't them dropstick stockings, might be them blue-bubbled shoes
Alright, Marty
Lord, my baby got something she calls the Stingaree
Lord, my baby got something she calls the Stingaree
She nearly drive me crazy when she turned it a loose on me