About the song

“If I Were a Carpenter” is most famous as a duet by Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, but the song’s origins lie with singer-songwriter Tim Hardin. Here’s a breakdown of the song with June Carter Cash in mind:

  • Background: Written by Tim Hardin in the 1960s, the song gained popularity with Bobby Darin’s 1966 cover. Johnny Cash released his version in 1970 on the album “Hello, I’m Johnny Cash.” However, it became a cultural touchstone when June Carter Cash joined him for a duet. Their version, known for its sweet harmonies and genuine affection, perfectly captured the song’s themes.

  • Themes: The central theme is devotion and unwavering love. The lyrics explore the idea that true love transcends social status or wealth. The song asks “if I were a carpenter” (or a miller, tinker) “would you love me anyway?” It expresses a willingness to work hard and provide for a family, but emphasizes that love is the most important thing.

  • Lyrics: The song is a sweet and simple dialogue between lovers. June Carter Cash’s vocals take on the perspective of the woman, responding to her partner’s hypothetical questions about social standing with unwavering affirmations of love.

Here’s an example:

If I were a carpenter And you were a lady Would you marry me anyway Would you have my baby

June Carter Cash’s voice, harmonizing with Johnny Cash’s, embodies the unwavering love and commitment at the heart of the song.

Video

Lyrics

If I were a carpenterAnd you were a ladyWould you marry me anywayWould you have my baby?
If you were a carpenterAnd I were a ladyI’d marry you anywayI’d have your baby
If a tinker was my tradeWould I still find youI’d be carrying the pots you madeFollowing behind youSave your love through lonelinessSave your love through sorrowI gave you my onlynessGive me your tomorrow
If I were a millerAnd a mill wheel grindingWould you miss your colored blouseAnd your soft shoes shining?
If you were a millerAnd a mill wheel grindingI’d not miss my colored blouseAnd my soft shoes shining
Save your love through lonelinessSave your love through sorrowI gave you my onlynessGive me your tomorrow
If I worked my hands on woodWould you still love me?I’d answer you yes I wouldAnd would you not be above me?
If I were a carpenterAnd you were a ladyI’d marry you anywayI’d have your baby
Save your love through lonelinessSave your love through sorrowI gave you my onlynessGive me your tomorrow

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