The Levi's that I'm wearing have been good to me
They just won't admit they're growing old
And though my shirt's made contract with a gutter now and then
At least it keeps my body from the cold

Thank God the folks back home in Harlan County
Can't see what success has done for me
Would you believe that kids in Harlan High School
Voted me most likely to successeed

Now I'm walking on the sidewalks of Chicago
If I buy the bread I can't afford the wine
Yes I'm walking on the sidewalks of Chicago
Wishing I'd have lived some other time

I wasn't here too long before I met her
The lady really swept me off my feet
She stayed just long enough for me to love her
And now they're sweepin' me up off the street

My mama thinks I've really hit the big time
She's written every day since I've been gone
She don't know that 109 East Charlotte
Is the adress of the East Side Mission Home

And I'm walking on the sidewalks
Yes I'm walking on the sidewalks