Black Lung/Coal Kathy Mattea

"Black Lung/Coal" by Kathy Mattea, released in 1990, is a #Country song that addresses the struggles of coal miners and the health impacts of their work, particularly black lung disease. The lyrics convey themes of sacrifice, labor, and the harsh realities of mining life, highlighting both pride and pain. The poignant storytelling and emotive vocals create a deep connection to the coal mining community, emphasizing the cultural significance of this industry in Appalachia.

[Instrumental, then entire song is sung a cappella]

[Verse 1]
He's had more hard luck than most men could stand
The mines was his first love but never his friend
He's lived a hard life and hard he'll die
Black lung's done got him, his time is nigh

[Chorus]
Black lung, black lung, oh you're just biding your time
Soon all of this suffering I'll leave behind
But I can't help but wonder what God had in mind
To send such a devil to claim this soul of mine

[Verse 2]
He went to the boss man but he closed the door
Well it seems you're not wanted when you're sick and you're poor
You ain't even covered in their medical plans
And your life depends on the favors of man

[Verse 3]
Down in the poor house on starvation's plan
Where pride is a stranger and doomed is a man
His soul full of coal dust 'til his body's decayed
And everyone but black lung's done turned him away

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