About the song
poignant meditation on mortality and the passage of time. This heartfelt cover, featured on Nelson’s 2008 album “Moment of Forever,” showcases the iconic country singer’s ability to breathe new life into a contemporary song.
Originally written and performed by Dave Matthews, “Gravedigger” is a reflective piece that explores themes of life, death, and the enduring nature of love. Nelson’s interpretation, however, brings a unique depth and emotional resonance to the song. His weathered voice, rich with experience, imbues the lyrics with a sense of hard-earned wisdom and acceptance.
**The stripped-down arrangement** of Nelson’s version allows the raw emotion of the lyrics to take center stage. The gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar and Nelson’s understated vocal performance create a somber and intimate atmosphere. The song’s simplicity serves to highlight the universal themes of mortality and loss, making it a deeply relatable listening experience.
**One of the most striking aspects of Nelson’s cover** is his ability to capture the song’s underlying sense of melancholy without succumbing to sentimentality. His performance is both moving and uplifting, offering a message of hope and perseverance in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.
**”Gravedigger”** is a powerful reminder of Willie Nelson’s enduring legacy as one of country music’s greatest storytellers. His ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level is evident in this haunting and unforgettable performance. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Nelson’s work or simply appreciate great songwriting, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Cyrus Jones 1810 to 1913
Made his great grandchildren believe
he could live to a 103
A hundred and three is forever when you’re just a little kid
So, Cyrus Jones lived forever
Gravedigger
When you dig my grave
Could you make it shallow
So that I can feel the rain
Gravedigger
Muriel Stonewall 1903 to 1954
She lost both of her babies in the second great war
Now, you should never have to watch your only children lowered in the ground
that means you should never have to bury your own babies
Gravedigger
When you dig my grave
Could you make it shallow
So that I can feel the rain
Gravedigger
Ring around the rosey
Pocket full o’posey
Ashes to ashes
{Musical intro}
We all fall down
Gravedigger
When you dig my grave
Could you make it shallow
So that I can feel the rain
Gravedigger
Little Mikey Carson ’67 to ’75
He rode his bike like the devil until the day he died
When he grows up he wants to be Mr. Vertigo on the flying trapeze
Oh, 1940 to 1992
When you dig my grave
Could you make it shallow
So that I can feel the rain
I can feel the rain
I can feel the rain
Gravedigger
When you dig my grave
Could you make it shallow
So that I can feel the rain
Gravedigger
Grave digger
