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Young Black Lungs

from Valley Home by Joe Vickers

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about

Falling boulders, railroad accidents, pit fires and methane gas leaks were the leading causes of death underground. While current reports suggest that one hundred and seventy five men lost their lives in the mines throughout the valley, it is speculated that many deaths were not documented during the early stages of mine development.

lyrics

Down in the depths of the coulee
Yonder beneath the ground
I hear a funeral procession
In the key of a mournful sound

The preacher tells the congregation,
“Each winter a miner is killed
So that all may keep their houses warm
So all may cook warm meals.”

My tag was left at the entry way
In here, the hazards we trust
When I heard the rumble, the rocks did tumble
I choked on the devil’s dust

The roof came caving in
A rock pinned me to the floor
The place I slave is now my grave
Don’t call for rescue anymore

The tunnel bumped, the boulders crashed
And just like that I was done
My fears came to life and my thoughts were that
“The day had finally come”

The music was fading
The canary sang me one last song
Before I rest, I drew one last breath
From my young black lungs

credits

from Valley Home, released July 19, 2011

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about

Joe Vickers Drumheller, Alberta

Farmer by day, troubadour by night, Joe Vickers has logged countless miles on both his combine and tour van. His music explores the human spirit singing of the triumphs and tragedies of everyday life on the prairies.

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