About the song
“Coal Miner’s Daughter” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant and deeply personal narrative that encapsulates the essence of Loretta Lynn’s life and her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to country music stardom. Released in 1970, this autobiographical masterpiece has become one of the most beloved and enduring songs in the country music canon.
Lynn’s lyrics, delivered with her characteristic sincerity and plainspoken honesty, paint a vivid portrait of her childhood in the poverty-stricken coal mining community of Butcher Hollow, Kentucky. She recounts the hardships and challenges of growing up in a large, working-class family, but also celebrates the resilience, love, and strong sense of community that defined her upbringing.
The song’s melody, simple yet deeply moving, perfectly complements Lynn’s heartfelt storytelling. Her voice, with its distinctive twang and emotional depth, conveys a sense of authenticity that resonates with listeners of all backgrounds. “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is not just a personal story; it’s a universal tale of overcoming adversity and achieving one’s dreams.
The impact of “Coal Miner’s Daughter” extended far beyond the realm of music. In 1980, the song served as the inspiration for the critically acclaimed biographical film of the same name, starring Sissy Spacek, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Lynn. The film further cemented the song’s place in popular culture, introducing Lynn’s remarkable story to a wider audience.
For those who appreciate the power of storytelling in music, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is an essential listen. It’s a testament to Loretta Lynn’s extraordinary talent as a songwriter and performer, and a reminder of the enduring power of the American dream. The song is a cultural landmark, and a true classic.
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Lyrics
Well, I was borned a coal miner’s daughter
In a cabin, on a hill in Butcher Holler
We were poor but we had love
That’s the one thing that daddy made sure of
He shoveled coal to make a poor man’s dollar
My daddy worked all night in the Van Lear coal mines
All day long in the field a hoin’ corn
Mommy rocked the babies at night
And read the Bible by the coal oil light
And ever’ thing would start all over come break of morn’
Daddy loved and raised eight kids on a miner’s pay
Mommy scrubbed our clothes on a washboard every day
Why, I’ve seen her fingers bleed
To complain, there was no need
She’d smile in mommy’s understanding way
In the summertime we didn’t have shoes to wear
But in the wintertime we’d all get a brand new pair
From a mail order catalog
Money made from selling a hog
Daddy always managed to get the money somewhere
Yeah, I’m proud to be a coal miner’s daughter
I remember well, the well where I drew water
The work we done was hard
At night we’d sleep ’cause we were tired
Never thought of ever leaving Butcher Holler
Well, a lot of things have changed since a way back then
Ah, and it’s so good to be back home again
Not much left but the floors, nothing lives here anymore
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter
‘Cept the memories of a coal miner’s daughter
