"Farmer John" genre: Alternative Country
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	This is part of the American Rider: A Biker Opera. Derek, the main character, sees a destitute man bussing tables at a diner in the heartland. The man used to own a farm but lost it like so many other farmers.
	CD: American Rider: A Biker Opera   Label: Waterloo Credits: Words and Music by Ian Ballard
	Story Behind the Song I used to live and work on my uncle's farm when I was young and I've always missed being there. I think it's shameful what the U.S. government has allowed to happen to the family farm while participating in huge bale-outs for distressed corporations and campaign contributors. The song was recorded with Lief Frederick on bass, Danny Oberbeck on drums and banjo, and Larry Jackson on lead guitar. I did the vocals and acoustic guitars. I'd like to hear Willie Nelson do it! Lyrics The rumbling of the motor The whining of the wheels On an asphalt highway bending over golden brown wheat fields Mortgaged beyond their value The sharks have cut their deals The farmers in their thrashers I wonder how they feel The mafia is nothing next to the IRS Pushing the limits putting freedom to the test If they can pay the interest The taxes take the rest Now Farmer John's a busboy A broken man at best A national conspiracy the banks and Uncle Sam Plundering the farmers and taking what they can Chewing up and spitting out the heart of this land Farmer John's a busboy just doing what he can He used to ride a tractor tending to his fields Now he stares through blank eyes cleaning up after your meals I wish that I could help him I see how bad he feels His farm's a corporate asset auctioned for a steal Farmer John, Farmer John Your daughter's moved away, the bank owns your farm There's nothing left but broken dreams The clothes that you've got on I wish that I could help you Farmer John

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