Arlo Guthrie is the son of one of the most significant folk singer/songwriters in American History, Woody Guthrie, who wrote classics like This Land Is Your Land. This song is about a train that travels from Chicago to New Orleans. The train passes through Memphis and parallels the Mississippi River. The train ride still exists,, part of the Amtrak system, traveling once daily from Chicago to NO and back to Chicago. I have taken The City of New Orleans train from Memphis to NO. It is a great way to see that part of America, the lower Mississippi River Delta.
The original City of New Orleans began in 1947 as part of the Illinois Central Railroad, and was the longest daylight run in the United States. The daylight train under that name ran through 1971, when it was moved to an overnight schedule as the Panama Limited. The present name was brought back in 1981, still on an overnight schedule. The train is the subject of the bittersweet 1971 song "City of New Orleans", written by Steve Goodman. This is Arlo Guthrie's cover of the original, a hit in 1972. Goodman died in 1984.
Thank you for the info. I was a kid when this came out and always liked it but didn’t know for sure what it was about. Listening to it just now I wondered if the ending, “Good night, America . . .” was because the train continued to run during the night or if it was being retired. I figured someone would give clarity to it in the comments section.
Arlo is a national treasure. Coming into Los Angeles, The Motorcycle Song, Alice's Restaurant and so many more. A master songwriter, storyteller, singer and musician.
This song was written by Steve Goodman, a Chicago folksinger/songwriter. If you explore his stuff, it will inevitably lead you to his friend and collaborator John Prine and a wealth of material.
Oh, yeah - Steve Goodman & John Prine.. thanks for the reminder, David! (I especially love Goodman's "the Dutchman" - been years since I've heard or thought of it, but you reminded me... thanks!)
Though written by the late Steve Goodman, this cover by Arlo Guthrie, is, in my opinion, the greatest version of this song. I never tire of hearing it. R.I.P. Steve Goodman.
Written by Steve Goodman, a national treasure of a songriter who died of leukemia at age of 36. I love all versions of this song that I've heard which includes Goodman's original and covers by Arlo Guthrie and Willie Nelson.
Sweet! Arlo Guthrie's version of "City Of New Orleans" was a big hit when I was a really little kid. I remember hearing it on the radio because of the catchy chorus but also because it was a song about trains and little kids are often fascinated by trains. Arlo Guthrie is the son of Woody Guthrie. Woody Guthrie wrote "This Land Is Your Land" and "Plane Wreck at Los Gatos" along with too many other songs to list. Arlo Guthrie is also famous for "Alice's Restaurant", a Thanksgiving song that spins a funny tale that rambles on like a shaggy dog for around twenty minutes. And his song "Coming into Los Angeles" provides the introductory music to the Woodstock movie.
The man who wrote this song was Steve Goodman. One of the best urban storytellers out there. R.I.P. Steve! Arlo Guthrie was the son of Woodie Guthrie one of the most respected early folk singer/songwriters. Woodie carried Huntington's disease and passed it to 2 of his daughters from his first wife. They both died young. Woodie passed from it much later on.
Part of the genius is the beat. The click-clack of the wheels on the rails... you're even rockin' back n' forth with the car. I rode when they had 'Smokin' cars'. Stayin' up all nite, tellin' lies with strangers, and often there was a brown bag.
Arlo Guthrie's father was a folk music superstar of his day. If you got 15 minutes to kill try Arlo' s song Alice's Restaurant it's a Vietnam War protest song.....kinda ..... it's funny if you get his brand of humor but no joke it's 15 minutes long . Arlo did a set at Woodstock. City of New Orleans has always been a favorite of mine ✌💞
Nerd moment 🤓: City of New Orleans is not about the city, but a train express that has the same name that went from Illinois to Louisiana, with it’s final destination being New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a really good song, and I love it!
This song was written by Steve Goodman and incredibly gifted song writer and performer. There are some excellent videos of Goodman on YT. You will not be disappointed, I promise you.
Brilliantly funny storyteller and singer, Arlo Guthrie recorded two perfect time capsules of the 1960s with "Coming In to Los Angeles" and the long yarn "Alice's Restaurant." An obscure classic I Iove is "The Story of Ruben Clamzo and His Strange Daughter" 'cuz clams got _feet_ !
Arlo's father, Woody Guthrie, is a staple of American folk music (you've probably heard at least part of "This Land Is Your Land"; that's one of Woody's, but most often people cut out the bitter-socialist verses). He grew up around the likes of Pete Seeger, another folk powerhouse, and came by his storytelling chops honestly. I've seen him live twice and both times were utter delights. "Chilling of the Evening" is gorgeous. "The Motorcycle Song" is silly. "Alice's Restaurant" is a Thanksgiving classic, not to mention one of the best stories you'll ever hear. And if you do "Coming Into Los Angeles," I will attempt to reconstruct Arlo's tale of flying in the days before drug dogs, but I likely won't do his telling justice.
Arlo Guthrie and his father Woody Guthrie are national treasures. Arlo's song Alice’s Restaurant is a must hear. It’s a humorous anti-war song from the Viet Nam era. Since you mentioned artists from New Orleans, you should give a listen to the song Right Place Wrong Time by Dr. John, a 6 time Grammy winner with a very unique vocal style. I guarantee you will love it!
Man, he said in the beginning of the song. . ."I'M THE TRAIN THEY CALL THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS." YES, the train was named "The City of New Orleans." WHY do almost all the people who "react" to this song NOT get that??? And it's about how trains were losing their dominance as a form of travel in America. . .The most important line in the whole song is when he sings, "This train has got the disappearin' railroad blues." Why don't "reactors" seem to understand that?
Arlo has his own storytelling style when he sings his own songs, he’s often funny. He’s got that great voice. This is a cover. This song carries a whole mood and time frame with it, for me. I feel almost teary when it starts, but not sad. Alice’s Restaurant is a famous song of is, and you should listen around Thanksgiving.
My parents were always into country music on the radio or tv on the weekends. All I got to hear as a kid in early 70s until I visited a neighbor who was playing records of Simon and Garfunkel and Arlo Guthrie. It opened a whole new wonderland of music for me. I have seen Arlo any chance I have getting a ticket to a show near me )
Thank you for playing this classic song by beloved folk singer/songwriter Arlo Guthrie. Arlo was very popular in the 60/70's and is still performing. If you able to, you should take a listen to his Thanksgiving anti war song/story of "Alices Restaurant", however it's a bit long Please don't listen to criticism about exploring various genres, that's what make life interesting. So much beautiful music and so little time...
2:04 Lyrics: "I'm the train they call the 'City of New Orleans'". It was very common for long distance trains, originating in Chicago, to be named after their final destinations. Such as the 'City of Los Angeles'. Also, the 'City of New Orleans' train still operates under Amtrak.
the mizzizzipa river, the trains haulin mail, freight, an folks on down the tracks, old US highway 61, the new I-55 - all runnin from twin cities MN clear down to the gulf of mexico... this music is americana !!!!!
"Inch Worm", "The Motorcycle Song", "Coming Into Los Angeles" and, of course, "Alice's Restaurant", Arlo Guthrie, the offspring of famed Folk Singer/Song Writer Woody Guthrie, has had himself a nice career. Seen the man, and his band, three times, only got one Alice's though, but it's all good. And Arlo is REAL good.
You're taking me back to my childhood, back when AM radio was everything. . Fun fact: "passengers will please refrain" refers to a naughty little song about not taking a dump when the train is in the station. Google "passengers will please refrain" for more info.
Say Biz, Great choice of an often forgotten smash hit. It's a wonderful song that brings a tear to my eye. Your review/reaction is right on the money in a card game played for fun and pennies with no one keeping score.
Biz, I'm so glad you enjoyed the "City of New Orleans", what a beautiful song. Arlo's smooth, sweet voice makes hopping trains and riding the rails sound so romantic and fun. The song was written by the late Steve Goodman, who played it for Arlo and asked Arlo to give the song to Johnny Cash. Arlo played it for Johnny, who turned it down, and it became Arlo's biggest hit. Here he is performing the song live and telling the story. ruclips.net/video/AIn4uHDyz0Q/видео.html I, too am a sucker for songs about cities. A few other good ones are the punkish "New York City" by They Might Be Giants, "San Franciscan Nights" by the Animals, "Memphis", (Johnny Rivers version of the Chuck Berry classic), "Streets of Baltimore" by Gram Parsons, and "It's a Beautiful Day in L.A." by the Beach Boys.
I remember riding this train early one morning, nicely toasted and watching out the window enjoying the scenery go by, when all of a sudden, i see a little black kid mooning the train. that's all i have to say about that.
Wasn't expecting to see a reaction to Arlo Guthrie. Make a note to react to Alice's Restaurant by Arlo Guthrie just prior to Thanksgiving this year. It's long but hilarious. Some of the song is singing, but it's mostly him telling a funny story without singing.
You should WATCH THE VIDEO that goes with this song. You actually get to see The City Of New Orleans, the train. It is on my bucket list to ride it to New Orleans, LA
may wanna check out his pa some time (woody). he was kind of a big deal (try "jesus"). but, you just ran into one of the all-time americana classics by arlo. nice choice!
Great song, Argo is a great talent but I prefer the cover by Willie Nelson.. the City of New Orleans was a train name on the old Illinois Central Railroad.. of course, it ran from Illinois to New Orleans and back..
I was home on leave after two years over seas I asked my dad if I could take a drive before breakfast in his car turned on the radio and this song came on Had to pull over I just lost it
Arlo Guthrie is the son of one of the most significant folk singer/songwriters in American History, Woody Guthrie, who wrote classics like This Land Is Your Land.
This song is about a train that travels from Chicago to New Orleans. The train passes through Memphis and parallels the Mississippi River. The train ride still exists,, part of the Amtrak system, traveling once daily from Chicago to NO and back to Chicago. I have taken The City of New Orleans train from Memphis to NO. It is a great way to see that part of America, the lower Mississippi River Delta.
The original City of New Orleans began in 1947 as part of the Illinois Central Railroad, and was the longest daylight run in the United States. The daylight train under that name ran through 1971, when it was moved to an overnight schedule as the Panama Limited. The present name was brought back in 1981, still on an overnight schedule. The train is the subject of the bittersweet 1971 song "City of New Orleans", written by Steve Goodman. This is Arlo Guthrie's cover of the original, a hit in 1972. Goodman died in 1984.
Steve Goodman was great. May he rest in peace.
Thank you for the info. I was a kid when this came out and always liked it but didn’t know for sure what it was about. Listening to it just now I wondered if the ending, “Good night, America . . .” was because the train continued to run during the night or if it was being retired. I figured someone would give clarity to it in the comments section.
Thank you for the info!
Steve Goodman also wrote "A Dying Cubs Fan's Last Request", ruclips.net/video/qKHqC8DDroE/видео.html.
Goodman originally offered it to Johhny Cash, but Cash had just done a whole album of railroad songs, so he gave it a pass
Arlo is a national treasure. Coming into Los Angeles, The Motorcycle Song, Alice's Restaurant and so many more. A master songwriter, storyteller, singer and musician.
His father Woody Guthrie, also a national treasure.
Oh! You've GOTTA hear Alice's Restaurant! It's in iconic status.
Woody Guthrie, his father, was one of our greatest folk singers. He wrote This Land Is Your Land. Trust me, you've heard it.
@@jordimoore2167 And a poem about Fred Trump's real-estate segregation practices that has since been set to music…
This song was written by Steve Goodman, a Chicago folksinger/songwriter. If you explore his stuff, it will inevitably lead you to his friend and collaborator John Prine and a wealth of material.
Oh, yeah - Steve Goodman & John Prine.. thanks for the reminder, David! (I especially love Goodman's "the Dutchman" - been years since I've heard or thought of it, but you reminded me... thanks!)
steve goodman was a big chicago cubs fan...
After 50 years this sounds as fresh as the first time I heard it.
Arlo's father was a huge influence on Bob Dylan in his early days.
Bob did a tribute to Woody, ruclips.net/video/lOWfCVQBixs/видео.html
Though written by the late Steve Goodman, this cover by Arlo Guthrie, is, in my opinion, the greatest version of this song. I never tire of hearing it. R.I.P. Steve Goodman.
This epic song written by Chicago's own Steve Goodman is American legend.
Written by Steve Goodman, a national treasure of a songriter who died of leukemia at age of 36. I love all versions of this song that I've heard which includes Goodman's original and covers by Arlo Guthrie and Willie Nelson.
They woke up the Apollo astronauts up on the moon with this song the song was written by the Chicago icon Steve goodman
After decades and decades of hearing this tune, I stll get emotional by this vocal performance.
So do I.
Sweet! Arlo Guthrie's version of "City Of New Orleans" was a big hit when I was a really little kid. I remember hearing it on the radio because of the catchy chorus but also because it was a song about trains and little kids are often fascinated by trains. Arlo Guthrie is the son of Woody Guthrie. Woody Guthrie wrote "This Land Is Your Land" and "Plane Wreck at Los Gatos" along with too many other songs to list. Arlo Guthrie is also famous for "Alice's Restaurant", a Thanksgiving song that spins a funny tale that rambles on like a shaggy dog for around twenty minutes. And his song "Coming into Los Angeles" provides the introductory music to the Woodstock movie.
The man who wrote this song was Steve Goodman. One of the best urban storytellers out there. R.I.P. Steve! Arlo Guthrie was the son of Woodie Guthrie one of the most respected early folk singer/songwriters. Woodie carried Huntington's disease and passed it to 2 of his daughters from his first wife. They both died young. Woodie passed from it much later on.
Part of the genius is the beat. The click-clack of the wheels on the rails... you're even rockin' back n' forth with the car. I rode when they had 'Smokin' cars'. Stayin' up all nite, tellin' lies with strangers, and often there was a brown bag.
Arlo Guthrie's father was a folk music superstar of his day. If you got 15 minutes to kill try Arlo' s song Alice's Restaurant it's a Vietnam War protest song.....kinda ..... it's funny if you get his brand of humor but no joke it's 15 minutes long . Arlo did a set at Woodstock. City of New Orleans has always been a favorite of mine ✌💞
Snapshot of America of old, Beautiful song. This song is part of our countries Quilt.. 🤟
Nerd moment 🤓: City of New Orleans is not about the city, but a train express that has the same name that went from Illinois to Louisiana, with it’s final destination being New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a really good song, and I love it!
This song was written by Steve Goodman and incredibly gifted song writer and performer. There are some excellent videos of Goodman on YT. You will not be disappointed, I promise you.
Brilliantly funny storyteller and singer, Arlo Guthrie recorded two perfect time capsules of the 1960s with "Coming In to Los Angeles" and the long yarn "Alice's Restaurant." An obscure classic I Iove is "The Story of Ruben Clamzo and His Strange Daughter" 'cuz clams got _feet_ !
Fading American glory. The great migration. Magical lyrics. Thank you for this.
Great choice! Arlo is a fun folk-story teller. The Motorcycle Song and The Story of Ruben Clamzo and His Strange Daughter are two good ones.
Another good one from arlo is 'Coming Into Los Angeles'.
Arlo's father, Woody Guthrie, is a staple of American folk music (you've probably heard at least part of "This Land Is Your Land"; that's one of Woody's, but most often people cut out the bitter-socialist verses). He grew up around the likes of Pete Seeger, another folk powerhouse, and came by his storytelling chops honestly. I've seen him live twice and both times were utter delights.
"Chilling of the Evening" is gorgeous. "The Motorcycle Song" is silly. "Alice's Restaurant" is a Thanksgiving classic, not to mention one of the best stories you'll ever hear. And if you do "Coming Into Los Angeles," I will attempt to reconstruct Arlo's tale of flying in the days before drug dogs, but I likely won't do his telling justice.
Arlo Guthrie and his father Woody Guthrie are national treasures. Arlo's song Alice’s Restaurant is a must hear. It’s a humorous anti-war song from the Viet Nam era. Since you mentioned artists from New Orleans, you should give a listen to the song Right Place Wrong Time by Dr. John, a 6 time Grammy winner with a very unique vocal style. I guarantee you will love it!
Man, he said in the beginning of the song. . ."I'M THE TRAIN THEY CALL THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS." YES, the train was named "The City of New Orleans." WHY do almost all the people who "react" to this song NOT get that??? And it's about how trains were losing their dominance as a form of travel in America. . .The most important line in the whole song is when he sings, "This train has got the disappearin' railroad blues." Why don't "reactors" seem to understand that?
Don't you know me I'm your native son 🎶🎶
"Alice's Restaurant" is one of his classics!
One of the outstanding things about this song is a great melody, something that is missing from a lot of contemporary music whatever the genre.
That is a flat out masterpiece. Arlo's best song, actually would be a lot of people's best song.
Good night, America.
I love you. 🇺🇲
Arlo has his own storytelling style when he sings his own songs, he’s often funny. He’s got that great voice. This is a cover. This song carries a whole mood and time frame with it, for me. I feel almost teary when it starts, but not sad. Alice’s Restaurant is a famous song of is, and you should listen around Thanksgiving.
Haven't heard this in decades
Oh! I love this song! 🚂
Back in the day, regular important passenger trains had city names, Famous ones were City of, Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, New Orleans and so on.
My parents were always into country music on the radio or tv on the weekends. All I got to hear as a kid in early 70s until I visited a neighbor who was playing records of Simon and Garfunkel and Arlo Guthrie. It opened a whole new wonderland of music for me. I have seen Arlo any chance I have getting a ticket to a show near me )
Thank you for playing this classic song by beloved folk singer/songwriter Arlo Guthrie. Arlo was very popular in the 60/70's and is still performing. If you able to, you should take a listen to his Thanksgiving anti war song/story of "Alices Restaurant", however it's a bit long Please don't listen to criticism about exploring various genres, that's what make life interesting. So much beautiful music and so little time...
He is one of America's most underrated talents
I just always keep finding you reacting to some old classics I have long forgotten.
Arlo is a master of painting a picture in your mind with his lyrics 🔥
2:04 Lyrics: "I'm the train they call the 'City of New Orleans'". It was very common for long distance trains, originating in Chicago, to be named after their final destinations. Such as the 'City of Los Angeles'. Also, the 'City of New Orleans' train still operates under Amtrak.
the mizzizzipa river, the trains haulin mail, freight, an folks on down the tracks, old US highway 61, the new I-55 - all runnin from twin cities MN clear down to the gulf of mexico... this music is americana !!!!!
"Inch Worm", "The Motorcycle Song", "Coming Into Los Angeles" and, of course, "Alice's Restaurant", Arlo Guthrie, the offspring of famed Folk Singer/Song Writer Woody Guthrie, has had himself a nice career. Seen the man, and his band, three times, only got one Alice's though, but it's all good. And Arlo is REAL good.
You can picture everything in your head from this song! Great job!
I like it when "you're all over the place" it's cool to shake it up.
🤘🏿🤘🏿🤘🏿
❤I was only a few years old when this hit the radio. I still love it ❤
You're taking me back to my childhood, back when AM radio was everything.
.
Fun fact: "passengers will please refrain" refers to a naughty little song about not taking a dump when the train is in the station. Google "passengers will please refrain" for more info.
Say Biz, Great choice of an often forgotten smash hit. It's a wonderful song that brings a tear to my eye. Your review/reaction is right on the money in a card game played for fun and pennies with no one keeping score.
Arlo is my favorite hippie!
Arlo's my cousin..and the son of americas greatest story teller, Woody
Arlo performed it. Steve goodman gave it to him to sing. Steve goodman ..all but forgotten about. left this song behind
Biz, I'm so glad you enjoyed the "City of New Orleans", what a beautiful song. Arlo's smooth, sweet voice makes hopping trains and riding the rails sound so romantic and fun. The song was written by the late Steve Goodman, who played it for Arlo and asked Arlo to give the song to Johnny Cash. Arlo played it for Johnny, who turned it down, and it became Arlo's biggest hit. Here he is performing the song live and telling the story. ruclips.net/video/AIn4uHDyz0Q/видео.html I, too am a sucker for songs about cities. A few other good ones are the punkish "New York City" by They Might Be Giants, "San Franciscan Nights" by the Animals, "Memphis", (Johnny Rivers version of the Chuck Berry classic), "Streets of Baltimore" by Gram Parsons, and "It's a Beautiful Day in L.A." by the Beach Boys.
Play more of Ario Guthrie that was great
Yesssss!! #arlo ✌️
Thanks for the great reactions!
🤘🏿🤘🏿
I remember riding this train early one morning, nicely toasted and watching out the window enjoying the scenery go by, when all of a sudden, i see a little black kid mooning the train. that's all i have to say about that.
Wasn't expecting to see a reaction to Arlo Guthrie. Make a note to react to Alice's Restaurant by Arlo Guthrie just prior to Thanksgiving this year. It's long but hilarious. Some of the song is singing, but it's mostly him telling a funny story without singing.
The City of New Orleans refers to the the train between Kankakee Illinois and New Orleans.
On Thanksgiving, you need to hit 'Alice's Restaurant'. You won't regret it. :)
You are getting into Arlo , check out his other music . His most famous is "Alice's Restorant " .
He is ,like his father ,a story teller .
Great song written by Steve Goodman. 😊
You should WATCH THE VIDEO that goes with this song. You actually get to see The City Of New Orleans, the train. It is on my bucket list to ride it to New Orleans, LA
"Cowboy Song" and "Gypsy Davy" are great songs by Arlo.
Ive seen Arlo live and it was amazing.
Great reaction. Love how you let the song play, too.
A monumental sentimental tune with great lyrics.
THE MOTORCYCLE SONG!
Or Alicia's restaurant.
It's the name of the train.
"The City of New Orleans" is the name of the train.
Arlington and his father Woody are American icons
A sucker for great penmanship as well Bizman!!!!!! Keep digging that gold hombre!!!!! So says Austin Tx!!!! 😎🍸
30 years earlier, his dad came up with "This Land Is Your Land"
Just a beautiful song!
Arlo comes by his story telling ability honestly. He is the son of the great Woody Guthrie
Great channel
Try Arlo's "Alice's Restaurant". Also good.!🇺🇸
Folk music at its best!!!
Great song. I love that you are branching out again and it's fun to see what you are going to do next.
may wanna check out his pa some time (woody). he was kind of a big deal (try "jesus"). but, you just ran into one of the all-time americana classics by arlo. nice choice!
I think it was my grangmas uncle or something like that anyways he used to ride the rails and get drunk with Woody Guthrie from time to time
Great reaction!
Thank you!! 😁
I admit it. I love ur show.
I appreciate that
@@watchbizmatik You are the only Reaction DJ (and I spy 'em all) who replies to every post. word.
Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.
Great song, Argo is a great talent but I prefer the cover by Willie Nelson.. the City of New Orleans was a train name on the old Illinois Central Railroad.. of course, it ran from Illinois to New Orleans and back..
Steve Goodman Was/Is the MAN!
Why don't people write music like this anymore
An unusual point of view for a song...What would this train have to say if it could talk?
ARLO IS FROM BROOKLYN
Been on that run. No to chi town.
Folk
It's the name of the train, he said so many times. FFS.
I was home on leave after two years over seas I asked my dad if I could take a drive before breakfast in his car turned on the radio and this song came on Had to pull over I just lost it