“Chattanooga Choo Choo” is a classic swing song performed by Glenn Miller and his orchestra, released in 1941. Written by Mack Gordon and composed by Harry Warren, the song was featured in the 1941 movie “Sun Valley Serenade.”

About The Song

The song is an upbeat and lively track that captures the excitement of boarding the “Chattanooga Choo Choo” train, heading to Tennessee. The lyrics narrate the journey of traveling from New York to Chattanooga, incorporating catchy and whimsical elements that reflect the joy of train travel. The famous refrain, “Pardon me, boy, is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo?” became instantly recognizable.

Musically, “Chattanooga Choo Choo” features a prominent saxophone section, brass instruments, and a rhythmic beat typical of the Big Band era. The song’s arrangement is energetic and includes a piano interlude that adds to its dynamic character.

“Chattanooga Choo Choo” became immensely popular, being the first recording to be certified a gold record after selling over one million copies. It remains one of Glenn Miller’s most famous songs, emblematic of his sound and the swing era. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its catchy melody, engaging lyrics, and the skillful performance by Glenn Miller’s orchestra.

Video

Lyric

Pardon me, boy
Is that the Chattanooga choo choo?
Track twenty-nine
Boy, you can gimme a shine
I can afford
To board a Chattanooga choo choo
I’ve got my fare
And just a trifle to spare

You leave the Pennsylvania Station ’bout a quarter to four
Read a magazine and then you’re in Baltimore
Dinner in the diner
Nothing could be finer
Than to have your ham an’ eggs in Carolina

When you hear the whistle blowin’ eight to the bar
Then you know that Tennessee is not very far
Shovel all the coal in
Gotta keep it rollin’
Woo, woo, Chattanooga there you are

There’s gonna be
A certain party at the station
Satin and lace
I used to call “funny face”
She’s gonna cry
Until I tell her that I’ll never roam
So Chattanooga choo choo
Won’t you choo-choo me home?
Chattanooga choo choo
Won’t you choo-choo me home?