The Platters - Sixteen Tons Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally wrote the song 'Sixteen Tons'?

   The song 'Sixteen Tons' was originally written by Merle Travis in 1947. It draws from his experiences and observations of coal miners, where he grew up in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky.

2. What does the phrase 'I owe my soul to the company store' mean in the song?

   'I owe my soul to the company store' refers to a historical system where coal miners were paid in scrip or vouchers, which could only be used at company-owned stores. This system often trapped workers in a cycle of debt, as they could not save money or shop elsewhere.

3. How did Tennessee Ernie Ford's version of 'Sixteen Tons' become popular?

   Tennessee Ernie Ford recorded 'Sixteen Tons' in 1955 and it became an instant hit. His version featured a unique snapping fingers and clarinet-driven pop arrangement. It topped both country and pop music charts in the U.S., selling over a million copies shortly after its release.

4. Was there any controversy or claims regarding the authorship of 'Sixteen Tons'?

   Yes, George Davis, a Kentucky man, claimed that he wrote a song similar to 'Sixteen Tons' back in the 1930s before Merle Travis's version became famous. However, there was no substantial evidence to support Davis’s claim as being the original author over Travis.

5. In what films or TV shows has 'Sixteen Tons' been featured?

   'Sixteen Tons' has appeared in various media over years. Notably, Tennessee Ernie Ford's version was featured on TV shows like The Simpsons and Mad Men. It also appeared on Fallout 76’s Appalachia Radio and was used in episodes of South Park.