Rhythms of the Rails: Capturing the Spirit of Trains in Guitar Music

For many musicians, especially those with a fondness for the railroad, the melodies and rhythms inspired by trains can be a cornerstone of their musical repertoire.

The Intrigue of Trains: A Personal Connection

My affinity for trains began during my college days when I spent a summer working with a railroad track repair crew. This experience, along with stories from my great-grandfather and great-uncle, who were both conductors, has deeply influenced my creative process. Whenever I hear train songs on the radio, my ears always perk up, eager to appreciate the unique rhythms and narratives they offer.

Creating Train Rhythm on the Guitar

One of the most iconic train rhythms comes from songs like Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues” and Elvis Presley’s “Mystery Train,” where Scotty Moore’s guitar riffs mimic the sound of train wheels rumbling over the tracks. This timeless rhythm can be achieved through a simple yet effective technique:

Thum Picking Technique: Use the thumb pick rhythm on the E, A, and D strings to create the metallic clicking sound of train cars passing over the rails. This is achieved with an alternating motion. Palm Muting: To achieve the muted and localized sound, gently rest your picking hand’s palm near the bridge of the guitar. Experiment with the amount of pressure to get the perfect sound. Electric Guitar Setup: Start with a clean amp setting, add some slapback delay, and fine-tune the tone to enhance the rhythm. Alternate Picking: Experiment using a flat pick to achieve a similar effect, though the thumb pick is often preferred for its authentic touch.

Personal Experiences and Musicianship

I’ve written a song about an old railroader revisiting the tracks:

“Rust and weeds and weary wood, reminders of what used to be. The trail to tomorrow was lost in yesterday, and all that's left is the memory.”

This composition focuses on the narrative rather than incorporating intricate rhythmic patterns, as the emphasis here is on the storytelling aspect. The finger-picking style in this instance sways gently, reflecting the train's lateral motion as it moves along the tracks.

Embroiling Lyrics and Melodies: Train Songs That Resonate

For other compositions like the “Wreck of the 97” or “Rusty Cage,” I do include a mimic train strum to simulate the distinctive “chuc a chuc a” sound made by old steam trains. In addition, I use a wooden train whistle, often found in railroad museums, for that authentic train sound. Though I wish I could play the harmonica proficiently, my efforts focus more on the sentiment and imagery evoked by train songs.

In many ways, train songs are a barometer for a bygone era, filled with a romantic and nostalgic outlook on vast, open landscapes where trains played a central role. The gentle, rhythmic finger-picking style, combined with nostalgic lyrics, helps listeners relive the days when railroads were the lifeblood of America.

So, whether you’re a seasoned musician or just a fan of train stories, there’s a wealth of material that will transport you back in time, capturing the spirit of these incredible vehicles on two thin, metal tracks.