In the midst of the Great Depression, a talented folk singer and songwriter from Texas decides to leave behind his struggling wife and children to journey westward in search of work and a better life. He rides freight trains and hitchhikes his way across the country, experiencing the harsh realities faced by ordinary Americans during this challenging time. Along his arduous trek, he encounters fellow drifters, laborers, and migrant workers, all of whom contribute to his growing awareness of social injustices and fuel his desire to use his music as a tool for change.

Upon arriving in California, he integrates himself into a camp of migrant workers, where he becomes an advocate for their rights. Through his performances and heartfelt lyrics, he inspires and unites the downtrodden masses, garnering both resonance and recognition for his commitment to a more just society. Amid growing tensions and challenges, he continues to navigate the complexities of his new environment, drawing from his personal experiences to create music that speaks to the struggles and hopes of the American people.