The melody of this song is a fairly old one. Back to top . Before I get into the background of the song, let me present the lyrics in their entirety. The version recorded by The Kingston Trio includes the chorus after each verse. Words in italics indicate the changes made by The Kingston Trio in their later recording.
Parentheses indicate backing vocals.
Charlie could not get off that train. Boston He's the man who never returned. As the train comes rumblin' through. He's the man who never returned. He's the man who never returned.