About the Song
Originally written by Steve Goodman in the 1960s, “City of New Orleans” became an enduring classic thanks to its heartfelt depiction of American life. Arlo Guthrie turned it into a pop hit in the 1970s, but Willie Nelson’s rendition in the 1980s solidified its status as a country music staple and a defining piece of Americana.
Goodman penned the song during a cross-country train ride, drawing inspiration from the sights and stories he observed along the journey. The song’s vivid imagery and unforgettable melody have made it a favorite across generations, inspiring numerous international versions with newly written lyrics.
Willie Nelson’s performance of “City of New Orleans” came during the height of his popularity, when his music resonated with audiences from all walks of life. With his signature voice, Nelson brought warmth and authenticity to the song, particularly in its iconic opening line: “Good morning, America. How are ya?”
Although radio stations may no longer feature Nelson as prominently, his influence remains as strong as ever. In 2024, Nelson continues to be a celebrated cultural icon, earning a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and releasing his first-ever bluegrass album. “City of New Orleans” epitomizes the soul of America, celebrating its diversity and resilience—a sentiment that feels as relevant today as ever.
Few songs encapsulate the American experience like this one, and few artists embody its spirit better than Willie Nelson.
Lyrics
Ridin’ on the City of New Orleans
Illinois Central, Monday mornin’ rail
15 cars and 15 restless riders
Three conductors, 25 sacks of mail
All along the southbound odyssey the train pulls out of Kankakee
Rolls along past houses, farms and fields
Passin’ graves that have no name, freight yards full of old black men
And the graveyards of rusted automobiles
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
Dealin’ cards with the old men in the club car
Penny a point, ain’t no one keepin’ score
Pass the paper bag that holds the bottle
And feel the wheels grumblin’ neath the floor
And the sons of Pullman porters and the sons of engineers
Ride their fathers’ magic carpet made of steel
Mothers with their babes asleep, rockin’ to the gentle beat
And the rhythm of the rails is all they feel
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
Nighttime on the city of New Orleans
Changin’ cars in Memphis, Tennessee
Halfway home, we’ll be there by mornin’
Thru the Mississippi darkness rollin’ down to the sea
But the towns & people seem to fade into a bad dream
And the steel rail still ain’t heard the news
Conductor sings your songs again
The passengers will please refrain
This train has got the disappearing railroad blues
Good mornin’ America, how are you?
Don’t you know me? I’m your native son!
I’m the train they call the City of New Orleans
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is done
I’ll be gone 500 miles when the day is doneAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement
