The Levi's that I'm wearing have been good to me

They just won't admit they're growing old

And though my shirt's made contract with a gutter now and then

At least it keeps my body from the cold



Thank God the folks back home in Harlan County

Can't see what success has done for me

Would you believe that kids in Harlan High School

Voted me most likely to successeed



Now I'm walking on the sidewalks of Chicago

If I buy the bread I can't afford the wine

Yes I'm walking on the sidewalks of Chicago

Wishing I'd have lived some other time



I wasn't here too long before I met her

The lady really swept me off my feet

She stayed just long enough for me to love her

And now they're sweepin' me up off the street



My mama thinks I've really hit the big time

She's written every day since I've been gone

She don't know that 109 East Charlotte

Is the adress of the East Side Mission Home



And I'm walking on the sidewalks...

Yes I'm walking on the sidewalks...