Freight Train

by Elizabeth Cotten
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Lyrics

Freight train, freight train (A)run y so fast,

freight train, freight train (D)run so fast.

(F#7)Please don’t tell what my (G)train

I’m on, and they won’t (D)know what I’ve (G)route (A7)I’ve (D)gone.

When I’m dead and (A)in y my grave,

no more good times (D)here I’ll crave.

(F#7)Place the stones at old (G)head

and feet, and tell them (D)all that I’ve (G)gone (A7)to (D)sleep.

(D)by.

Freight Train by Elizabeth Cotten

55 people have learned this song

Easy piano arrangement in the key of D at 144 BPM. Difficulty: easy. Color-coded notes — no sheet-reading skill required.

About “Freight Train

What key is "Freight Train" in?
"Freight Train" by Elizabeth Cotten is in the key of D with a tempo of 144 BPM. Difficulty: easy.
Is "Freight Train" easy to play on piano?
Yes — this arrangement is rated easy, meaning it uses simple chord patterns and a manageable tempo. Most beginners can play through it in 1-3 practice sessions using our color-coded notes.
Can I play "Freight Train" without reading sheet music?
Yes. Our player offers a falling-notes mode (Synthesia-style) and a beginner mode with color-coded keys — both let you play along without reading traditional notation.
How long does it take to learn "Freight Train" on piano?
1–3 short practice sessions for the basics; 2–3 weeks to perform confidently with both hands.

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