About the Song
If youāre a fan of classic folk music, chances are youāve heard of The Kingston Trio. This American folk trio, consisting of Dave Guard, Bob Shane, and Nick Reynolds, was one of the most popular musical acts of the 1950s and 1960s. Their unique blend of tight harmonies, witty lyrics, and engaging storytelling captured the hearts of millions and helped to popularize folk music. One of their most enduring hits is undoubtedly āM.T.A.ā.
Released in 1958, āM.T.A.ā is a humorous and catchy tune that tells the story of a traveler who gets on the wrong train. The songās title is an acronym for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, a public transportation system in Boston. The lyrics, written by Bob Shane and inspired by a real-life incident, describe the travelerās comical journey as he tries to figure out how to get back on the right track.
What makes āM.T.A.ā so special? For one, itās incredibly catchy. The melody is simple yet memorable, and the lyrics are easy to follow. The songās humor is universal, making it relatable to people of all ages and backgrounds. But thereās more to āM.T.A.ā than just its catchy tune and witty lyrics. The song also has a strong sense of nostalgia. It transports listeners back to a simpler time, when people traveled by train and life seemed a little less complicated.
Musically, āM.T.A.ā is a prime example of the Kingston Trioās sound. The trioās harmonies are tight and polished, and their instrumentation is sparse yet effective. The use of a banjo gives the song a distinctly folk sound, while the rhythmic clapping adds a playful touch.
āM.T.A.ā has had a lasting impact on popular culture. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, and it remains a staple of folk music radio stations. The songās enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to connect with audiences on a deep level.
So, why should you listen to āM.T.A.ā? If you enjoy classic folk music, youāll love this song. Itās catchy, humorous, and nostalgic. And even if youāre not a fan of folk music, thereās a good chance youāll find something to enjoy in āM.T.A.ā Itās a timeless piece of music that has stood the test of time.
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Lyrics: M.T.A.
These are the times that try menās souls. In the course of our nationās history, the people of Boston have rallied bravely whenever the rights of men have been threatened. Today, a new crisis has arisen. The Metropolitan Transit Authority, better known as the M.T.A., is attempting to levy a burdensome tax on the population in the form of a subway fare increase. Citizens, hear me out! This could happen to you!
Well, let me tell you of the story of a man named Charley on a tragic and fateful day
He put ten cents in his pocket, kissed his wife and family, went to ride on the M.T.A.
Well, did he ever return? No, he never returned and his fate is still unknown
(What a pity! Poor ole Charlie. Shame and scandal. He may ride forever. Just like Paul Revere)
He may ride forever āneath the streets of Boston. Heās the man who never returned
Charlie handed in his dime at the Kendall Square Station and he changed for Jamaica Plain
When he got there the conductor told him, āOne more nickel.ā Charlie couldnāt get off of that train
Well, did he ever return? No, he never returned and his fate is still unknown
(What a pity! Poor ole Charlie. Shame and scandal. He may ride forever. Just like Paul Revere)
He may ride forever āneath the streets of Boston. Heās the man who never returned
Now, all night long Charlie rides through the station, crying, āWhat will become of me?!
How can I afford to see my sister in Chelsea or my cousin in Rocksbury?ā
Well, did he ever return? No, he never returned and his fate is still unknown
(What a pity! Poor ole Charlie. Shame and scandal. He may ride forever. Just like Paul Revere)
He may ride forever āneath the streets of Boston. Heās the man who never returned
Charlieās wife goes down to the Sculley Square Station every day at quarter past two
And through the open window she hands Charlie a sandwich as the train comes rumblinā through
Well, did he ever return? No, he never returned and his fate is still unknown
(What a pity! Poor ole Charlie. Shame and scandal. He may ride forever. Just like Paul Revere)
He may ride forever āneath the streets of Boston. Heās the man who never returned
Now, you citizens of Boston, donāt you think itās a scandal how the people have to pay and pay?
Fight the fare increase! Vote for George OāBrien! Get poor Charlie off the M.T.A.
Well, did he ever return? No, he never returned and his fate is still unknown
(What a pity! Poor ole Charlie. Shame and scandal. He may ride forever. Just like Paul Revere)
He may ride forever āneath the streets of Boston. Heās the man who never returned
Heās the man who never returned. Heās the man who never returned
E tu, Charlie?
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