Locomotive Breath

Jethro Tull

About Locomotive Breath

"Locomotive Breath" is a song by the British progressive rock band Jethro Tull from their 1971 album, Aqualung. Written as a comment on population growth, "Locomotive Breath" was meant to replicate the chugging rhythm of a train. In addition to its release on Aqualung, "Locomotive Breath" saw two different single releases and has been a live favorite. It is one of Jethro Tull's best-known songs.


4:26

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In the shuffling madness
Of the locomotive breath
Runs the all-time loser
Headlong to his death

Oh, he feels the piston scraping
Steam breaking on his brow
Old Charlie stole the handle
And the train it won't stop 
Oh no way to slow down

He sees his children jumping off
At the stations one by one
His woman and his best friend

In bed and having fun
Oh, he's crawling down the corridor
On his hands and knees
Old Charlie stole the handle 
And the train it won't stop going
No way to slow down
Hey

He hears the silence howling
Catches angels as they fall
And the all-time winner
Has got him by the balls
Oh, he picks up Gideons bible
Open at page one
I thank God he stole the handle 
And the train it won't stop going
No way to slow down

No way to slow down
No way to slow down
No way to slow down
No way to slow down
No way to slow down
No way to slow down
No way to slow down

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Jethro Tull

Jethro Tull are a British progressive rock group formed in Luton, Bedfordshire, in December 1967. Their music is characterised by the vocals, acoustic guitar, and flute playing of Ian Anderson, who has led the band since its founding, and the guitar work of Martin Barre, who has been with the band since 1969, after he replaced original guitarist Mick Abrahams. more »

11 fans

Written by: Ian Anderson

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Details
"Locomotive Breath" was released by Jethro Tull in 1971 as part of their Aqualung album.
Album Success
Aqualung album, which contained "Locomotive Breath," is Jethro Tull's best-selling album.
Songwriting
The song was written by Ian Anderson, the band's lead vocalist, and it's about the impending doom of industrialization.
Piano Skill
The song has a notable piano introduction played by John Evan, band's Keyboardist. This intro was in fact a separate musical piece that Ian Anderson combined with "Locomotive Breath".
Unique Lyrics
Unlike most rock songs, the lyrics for "Locomotive Breath" were written before the music.
Song Theme
The song uses a runaway train as a metaphor for the out-of-control aspect of life during a rapidly industrializing period.
Live Performances
"Locomotive Breath" is one of Jethro Tull's most frequently performed live songs and it usually closes their concerts.
Cover Versions
Several artists, like Rammstein and Styx, have covered "Locomotive Breath."
Noteworthy Solo
The song features a memorable flute solo from Anderson, which has become one of the signature sounds of Jethro Tull.
Sustainability Message
Though the song was released in the 70s, its message about sustainability and the dangers of unchecked industrial growth remain relevant today.

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    Locomotive Breath

    13.2M
    86,009     3,587

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1976

    Billboard #62


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