Patty Loveless - You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive

[HestonBeth]

There's lots of Appalachian folk who can identify with this song. You hate it and you love it at the same time. It's the place you were born and bred, but you'll do whatever you can to get away.

[linswango]

Those of us who have Kentucky roots in our family and our souls respond to this song on an almost cellular level. It touches my soul.

[Bigrudd72]

I'm from magoffin county kentucky and my papaw used to work in the harlan county mines. Luckly he's still alive and well. Ive been to harlan county one time with him and he told me "promise me you'll never work in this county, you'll regret it." his words spoke to me and whats weird is when he told me that this song started playin. I'll never forget about this song.

[daviddiron]

Both of my Grandfathers died of blacklung; three uncles died in the mines. Four aunts never made 60. I've two cousins there with lung cancer.... My parents escaped because of WWII, and never went back. I thank God every day for their wisdom. The mountains call to me; this song touches my heart, but all I can say is to hell with Harlan.

[yoridevynbestiez]

I am a harlan countian

[samthedandiedinmont]

Excellent work -great pictures---wonderful song for Patty--I'm sure she is proud of it. Never get tired of Patty singing--since 91 for me.

[KyTroy3]

Same here Maddieoh. I still live here in Ky. and Im also a bluegrass musician.Startin learnin guitar & mandolin when I was 7 years old... Im now 51. And still play Everyday! This song is Absolutely My Family's History!

[maddieoh11]

There is no difference in the the two versions its not even about that! The only way you can appreciate this song or its meaning as if your from there! I am! My daddy was raised in bloody harlan and now that he is no longer w us this song has a great deal of meaning! I also have a very dear friend that mines coal out of those mountains! So before you say nething about the song understand the meaning first! - Just a good ole' country girl from eastern KY!

[catethulhu]

@maddieoh11 I think anyone who understands a little about American history and has a bit of compassion can appreciate this song. It is a bitter portrayal of the harsh life of the average worker of pre-union America and the injustices they suffered, and still do. My family is from Kansas and came to California to escape the dustbowl. I am eternally grateful for that. Many people can relate to hardship.

[ebsprouse]

This is where the greatest fiddler in bluegrass music was born and worked the coal mines before making musical history and setting the standard for bluegrass fiddling as the right hand to Bill Monroe and in his own right. What a beautiful, telling song, and a gorgeous rendition by another Eastern Kentuckian, Patty Loveless. Thanks for this posting with the beautiful pictures of Eastern Kentucky.

[mynameiseo65]

think this is a great no fantastic song...but i prefer the chills of brad paisley's version

[komotoko]

@mynameiseo65 I LOVE this son but honestly I like Patties woman voice with it...I think it plays well I love brads too idk haha :) I just find this one easier on my ears :)

[jutmo]

this was played at my grandfather's funeral .

tears every time