Lyr Req: Train on the Island: can't hold the wheel

Subject: I can't hold the wheel
From: GUEST,A. Talley
Date: 21 Feb 00 - 09:09 AM

I heard a song on public radio and all I can remember is "I can't hold the wheel". I think it was about a train??? anybody got any ideas? it was an old time fiddle song. thanks.

Subject: RE: I can't hold the wheel
From: GUEST,Pete Peterson
Date: 21 Feb 00 - 09:36 AM

It's some of the extra verses in Train on the Island (J.P. Nestor's recording, IIFC) and/or June Apple

Train on the island, thought I heard her squeal
Go and tell my own true love that I can't hold the wheel

I think it was covered by the Double Decker String Band; I can remember Craig Johnson's beautiful tenor voice singing that.

Pete Peterson at work

Subject: RE: I can't hold the wheel
From: Stewie
Date: 21 Feb 00 - 10:48 PM

J.P Nestor's classic 'Train on the Island' (with Norman Edmunds on fiddle) is available on at least 2 CDs:

Various Artists: 'Rural String Bands of Virgiania' County CD-3502
Various Artists: 'Times Ain't What They Used To Be Vol 1' Yazoo 2028

The only other side recorded by Nestor and Edmunds, 'Black-eyed Susie', is on the magnificent 2CD set issued by the Country Music Foundation - 'The Bristol Sessions' CMF-011-D.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: I can't hold the wheel
From: BanjoRay
Date: 22 Feb 00 - 12:12 PM

Does anyone know what "Train On The Island" is all about? What island? What wheel? Its a great tune/song which I really love, but I wish I new what it was all about. Is there any associated history?

Cheers Ray