Big John Hamilton - Big Bad John / The Train

Year Released: 1969
Genre: Southern Soul / Deep Soul / R&B

Description:

“Big Bad John / The Train” by Big John Hamilton is a double-sided 7″ single released in 1969 on the Minaret Records label, one of the defining imprints of the late-’60s Southern soul scene. Produced by Finley Duncan, the single exemplifies the earthy, gospel-rooted sound that characterized Minaret’s output, blending emotional vocals with tight, horn-driven arrangements recorded in the Muscle Shoals tradition.

The A-side, “Big Bad John,” reimagines Jimmy Dean’s 1961 country classic as a fiery deep-soul performance. Hamilton’s powerful baritone delivers the story with grit and conviction, accompanied by a heavy rhythm section, gospel-style organ, and brass accents. His interpretation transforms the song from a country ballad into a passionate, groove-oriented Southern soul anthem.

The B-side, “The Train,” rides a funkier, up-tempo beat, propelled by rhythmic guitar, sharp horn lines, and a locomotive drive that channels the raw spirit of live Southern R&B. Together, both sides showcase Hamilton’s commanding vocal presence and the depth of Minaret’s studio sound.

The enduring influence of “Big Bad John” extends far beyond the soul era. The track was later sampled by Big Daddy Kane on his 1989 hip-hop classic “Warm It Up, Kane,” which lifted Hamilton’s gritty groove and transformed it into a Golden-Age rap backdrop. This connection underscores the song’s rhythmic strength and lasting impact on later generations of Black music.

Though it never broke into national charts, Big Bad John / The Train has since become a coveted 7″ among collectors for its raw, heartfelt delivery and historical bridge between Southern soul and the foundations of hip-hop sampling culture.