Ain’t No More Cane

The words

Prisoners describe the brutal, endless labour of cutting cane under guard, and long for it to be over.

This old work song comes from the convict labour camps of the American South, where prisoners were forced to cut sugar cane. It speaks of the harsh work, cruel overseers and the men who did not survive, along with the hope that such days will end. The Band's version passes the lead between several singers, giving it the feel of a shared lament. Acoustic instruments and rough harmonies keep it close to its folk roots.

A traditional song