Well, I hear that train a-coming
It's a rolling round the bend
Well, I ain't seen the sunshine
Since I don't know when

And I'm stuck in Folsom prison
Time keeps dragging on
Well, that train keeps a-rolling
On down to San Antone

I was just a baby
My mama told me, son
Said, "Always be a good boy
Don't ever play with guns"

But I shot a man in Reno
Just to watch him die
When I hear that whistle blowing
I hang my head and cry

Well, I bet there's rich folks eating
From a fancy dining car
Well, they're probably drinking coffee
And smoking big cigars

Well, I know I had it coming
I know I can't be free
Now those people keep a-moving
That's what tortures me

If they'd free me from this prison
If that railroad train was mine
I bet I'd move just a little
Further down the line

Yeah, far from Folsom prison
That's where I want to stay
Lord, I hear that whistle blowing
Blow my blues away

(Spoken by Johnny)

It's been thirty years now
And I know I'll never leave
This God forsaken place alive
Honest to God, when I hear those words
Ringing through my head
As loud as that old train whistle
Crying out to me night after continuous night
Sending a cold steal quiver through my voice
I close my eyes and pray
That that iron horse is bound for the promise land
And I'll get to ride it home to glory