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

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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