About the song
“Peter Paul & Mary: Early Morning Rain – A Timeless Folk Classic
There’s something undeniably comforting about the sound of a well-loved folk song, isn’t there? It’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a chilly evening. And when it comes to classic folk trios, few can match the harmony and heartfelt performances of Peter, Paul, and Mary. Their rendition of Early Morning Rain is a prime example of their ability to transform a simple song into a timeless masterpiece.
Gordon Lightfoot’s Early Morning Rain is a haunting ballad about lost love and heartbreak. It’s a song that has been covered countless times by artists from various genres, but Peter, Paul, and Mary’s version stands out for its raw emotion and intimate delivery. The trio’s signature close harmonies give the song a lush, ethereal quality that perfectly complements the melancholic lyrics.
One of the most striking aspects of this recording is the way Peter, Paul, and Mary capture the feeling of longing and regret. Mary Travers’s delicate vocals convey a sense of vulnerability that is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Her voice, combined with the rich, resonant tones of Peter Yarrow and Noel Paul Stookey, creates a sound that is both familiar and unforgettable.
The song’s imagery is also worth noting. The image of the “early morning rain” is both literal and metaphorical. On one level, it represents the physical act of crying. But on a deeper level, it symbolizes the cleansing power of tears and the hope of renewal. The line “And I’ll wait for you here in the morning rain” is particularly poignant, suggesting that the narrator is willing to endure any amount of pain in the hope of being reunited with their lost love.
Early Morning Rain is more than just a pretty song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of folk music. Peter, Paul, and Mary’s interpretation of this classic ballad is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates heartfelt songwriting and beautiful harmonies. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, and it will continue to resonate with listeners for generations to come.”
Video
Lyrics
In the early mornin’ rain with a dollar in my hand
And an aching in my heart and my pockets full of sand
I’m a long way from home and I miss my loved one so
In the early mornin’ rain with no place to go
Out on runway number nine, big seven o seven set to go
But I’m out here on the grass where the pavement never grows
Well the liquor tasted good and the women all were fast
There she goes my friend, she’s rollin’ down at last
Hear the mighty engine roar, see the silver wing on high
She’s away and westward bound far above the clouds she’ll fly
Where the mornin’ rain don’t fall and the sun always shines
She’ll be flyin’ over my home in about three hours time
This old airport’s got me down, it’s no earthly good to me
‘Cause I’m stuck here on the ground, cold and drunk as I might be
Can’t jump a jet plane like you can a freight train
So I’d best be on my way in the early mornin’ rain
So I’d best be on my way in the early mornin’ rain
