The Kingston Trio – Tom Dooley

About the Song

Tom Dooley is a classic folk song that was popularized by The Kingston Trio in the early 1960s. The song is based on a true story about a young man named Tom Dula who was convicted of murder in North Carolina in 1868.

The Kingston Trio’s version of “Tom Dooley” features their signature harmonies and lively folk-inspired arrangement. The song’s catchy melody and engaging narrative have made it a beloved staple of the American folk music canon.

While the song romanticizes the story of Tom Dula, it also raises questions about justice and the nature of truth. The lyrics present a sympathetic portrayal of the accused, suggesting that he may have been wrongly convicted. This ambiguity has contributed to the song’s enduring appeal, as it invites listeners to form their own interpretations of the events.

Beyond its musical merits, “Tom Dooley” has also had a significant cultural impact. The song’s popularity helped to popularize the story of Tom Dula and inspired numerous other songs and films about the case. Today, “Tom Dooley” remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its blend of music, history, and mystery.

Video

Lyrics: “Tom Dooley”

Throughout history, there have been many songs written about the eternal triangle
This next one tells the story of Mister Grayson
A beautiful woman and a condemned man named Tom Dooley
When the sun rises tomorrow, Tom Dooley must hang

Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

I met her on the mountain
There I took her life
Met her on the mountain
Stabbed her with my knife

Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

This time tomorrow
Reckon where I’ll be
Hadn’t-a been for Grayson
I’d-a been in Tennessee

Well now, boy
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

Hang down your head and try, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head and try, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

This time tomorrow
Reckon where I’ll be
Down in some lonesome valley
Hangin’ from a white oak tree

Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

Well now, boy
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Hang down your head and cry
Hang down your head, Tom Dooley
Poor boy, you’re bound to die

Poor boy, you’re bound to die
Poor boy, you’re bound to die
Poor boy, you’re bound to die