What is leadbelly midnight special?

Leadbelly's "Midnight Special" is a traditional folk song that originated in the Southern United States in the early 1900s. The song has been performed and recorded by many artists over the years, but Leadbelly's version is perhaps the most famous.

The lyrics of the song tell the story of a prisoner who is waiting for the midnight train that will take him away from his jail cell. The "Midnight Special" is a reference to this train, which was sometimes used by prison guards and officials to transport inmates from one facility to another in the dead of night.

Leadbelly recorded his version of the song in the 1930s, and it became a staple of his repertoire. His powerful, emotional vocals and distinctive guitar playing helped to popularize the song and bring it to a wider audience. Today, "Midnight Special" remains a beloved folk classic, with its catchy melody and timeless lyrics continuing to inspire and move listeners.