Subject: Lyr Add: MY HEART'S TONIGHT IN TEXAS From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 11:16 AM My Heart's Tonight in Texas also known as "Tonight my Heart's in Texas" was recorded by the Carter Family for Bluebird in 1834. The western folk song, credited to Roden-Max S. Witt in 1900, was first recorded as "By the Silvery Rio Grande" by Ted Chestnut in 1928. "Down by the Silvery Rio Grande" was published in 1913 as by Dave Weisberg, R. F. Roden, and music-Charles Speidel. The Carters probably based their version on the Girls of the Golden West's recording in 1932. MY HEART'S TONIGHT IN TEXAS- Carter Family In the distant state of Texas By the silvery Rio Grande Strolled a couple out one evening Was two sweethearts hand in hand Was a rich man's pretty daughter And the lad she loved so dear Though tomorrow they must part for many a year. My heart's tonight in Texas Though I'm far across the sea The band is playing Dixie And that's where I long to be Dad says the earl I'll marry But although here is my hand My heart's tonight in Texas By the silvery Rio Grande. To Europe she was going To become a lady grand For her father hoped an Earl of course she'll wed But she went away next morning And her heart was true to Jack A letter came one day and this it read At a stately ball in England Stood the Texas lass one night The scenes were all splendid And the light were dizzyingly bright The earl knelt beside her Asking her to be his bride But her thoughts were by the silvery Rio Grande |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY HOME'S ACROSS THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 05:40 PM My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains is a traditional folk song recorded by the Carter Family in 1938. Louise Bascom Rand collected a version called "My Own True Love" in 1909. Bascom Lamar Lunsford stated that this song can be classified as a "Straw-ride song." Possibly it is based upon an old religious song, "Oh, How I Love Jesus." Here are some early recordings: Clarence Ashley, Garley Foster, Dock Walsh & Doc Watson, "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (on Ashley03, WatsonAshley01) Carolina Tar Heels, "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (Victor V-40100, 1929) Carter Family, "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (Decca 5532, 1938/Decca X2184, n.d.) Delmore Brothers, "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (Bluebird B-8247, 1939) Kelly Harrell, "I'm Going Back to North Carolina" (OKeh 40505, 1925; on KHarrell01) Bascom Lamar Lunsford, "My Home's Across the Smoky Mountains" (AAFS 3155 B2) Poplin Family, "My Home Is Not In South Carolina" (on Poplin01) Pete Seeger, "My Home's Across the Smoky Mountains" (on PeteSeeger25) Arthur Smith, "Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (Bluebird B-7221, 1937) Jack Wallin, "My Home's Across the Blue Ridge Mountains" (on Wallins1) MY HOME'S ACROSS THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS My home's across the Blue Ridge mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains For I never expect to see you anymore [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] How can I keep from crying How can I keep from crying How can I keep from crying For I never expect to see you anymore My home's across the Blue Ridge mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains For I never expect to see you anymore [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, how I hate to leave you Oh, how I hate to leave you Oh, how I hate to leave you For I never expect to see you anymore My home's across the Blue Ridge mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains My home's across the Blue Ridge Mountains For I never expect to see you anymore [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Good-bye, my little darling Good-bye, my little darling Good-bye, my little darling For I never expect to see you anymore |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY HOME AMONG THE HILLS From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 06:12 PM My Home Among the Hills is a song the Carters recorded in 1940. It seems as if A.P. wrote this trying to recreate Gene Autry's 1932 hit "That Silver-Haired Daddy of Mine." Any other info? MY HOME AMONG THE HILLS-Carter Family Got a home in the hills of old Virginia I love still And it stands near the lonesome pines And I long to go back to the vine covered shack Where I left that old mother of mine I can still see her there in that old rocking chair In my home among the hills And I seem to hear her say why did you go away From your home among the hills The pine trees stand alone near my old Virginia home And that silver- haired mother of mine I can see her smiling face in that old familiar place In my home among the hills I'm leaving here today I'm going back to stay In my home among the hills How happy we will be near the lonesome pine trees In my home among the hills |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY HONEY LOU From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 06:37 PM "My Honey Lou" was recorded by the Carters in 1936. It is a song by Frank M. Statia written in 1897. A different song with the same title "My honey Lou" was written in 1904 by Thurland Chattaway. MY HONEY LOU- Carter Family [INSTRUMENTAL INTRO] When the sun sets in the west, my Honey Lou Then the time I love you best, my Honey Lou Come and look into my eyes When the moon shines in the skies I'll be in paradise, my Honey Lou Last night I waited long, my Honey Lou And told the birds my song, my Honey Lou When the bright and silver moon Sheds its soft and mellow light I love you more each night, my Honey Lou [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When the birds have hushed their song, my Honey Lou All the twilight shadows on my Honey Lou My heart forever beats For my Honey gal so sweet I'll lay it at your feet, my Honey Lou Last night I waited long, my Honey Lou And told the birds my song, my Honey Lou When the bright and silver moon Sheds its soft and mellow light I love you more each night, my Honey Lou [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Last night I waited long, my Honey Lou And told the birds my song, my Honey Lou When the bright and silver moon Sheds its soft and mellow light I love you more each night, my Honey Lou |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 06:45 PM My Little Home in Tennessee is a song by Carson Robison in 1926. |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY NATIVE HOME From: Richie Date: 09 Dec 08 - 07:15 PM My Native Home is a song recorded by the Carter's in 1936. This is clearly based on another song. Can anyone find it? MY NATIVE HOME- Carter Family I'd like to see my native home The lofty trees, the golden sand The rugged hills all crowded 'round My mother's voice how sweet would sound Sometimes I dream of home and friends My dreams are false, my heart it rends And when I wake I'm all alone My dreams are false, my friends are gone [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I'd like to see my heart's delight Her beauteous face and eyes so bright And how she'd smile as I drew near I'd kiss her with a falling tear It fills my heart with fondest love To listen to that lonesome dove She mourns as if her mate was gone As if, like me, left all alone [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Nine or ten years have passed and gone And I'm still left here all alone Virginia, o my native home Among your hills I'd love to roam |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY OLD COTTAGE HOME From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 01:01 AM My Old Cottage Home, recorded by the Carters in 1931, is based on a song by R.A. Glen circa 1880. MY OLD COTTAGE HOME Carter Family- Original I am thinking tonight of an old cottage home That stands on the brow of the hill Where in life's early morning I once loved to roam But now all is quiet and still Oh, my old cottage home, my old cottage home That stands on the brow of the hill Where in life's early morning I once loved to roam But now all is quiet and still [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Many years have gone by since in prayers there I knelt With dear ones around the old hearth But my mother's sweet prayers in my heart still are felt I'll treasure them all while on earth Oh, my old cottage home, my old cottage home That stands on the brow of the hill Where in life's early morning I once loved to roam But now all is quiet and still [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] One by one they have gone from the old cottage home On earth we shall see them no more But we'll meet them again on that beautiful shore Where parting will come nevermore Oh, my old cottage home, my old cottage home That stands on the brow of the hill Where in life's early morning I once loved to roam But now all is quiet and still |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY OLD VIRGINIA HOME From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 01:32 AM My Old Virginia Home was recorded by the Carters in 1935. Fiddler Miller Wikel recorded a song by that title twice; once in 1928 and again in 1929 but the sides were not released. My Old Virginia Home by Charles T. Frey in 1855 is similar in sentiment but not the same song. This certainly seems like a Carter Family original based on the title. Anyone have any other info? MY OLD VIRGINIA HOME- Carter Family It was on one winter day from my home I went away Far away from friends and home I longed to roam But tonight I'm lone and sad just a little homesick lad And I'm longing for my old Virginia home I'm a lad from old Virginia bravely knocking my way back home To that cabin home in the mountains never more let me roam I'm a lad from old Virginia and I'm coming coming home There I'll settle down forever in my old Virginia home Since I left that little shack how my mind has wandered back How mother often prayed for her lad But from her I went astray and I know I've dearly paid So I'm coming back to mother and my dad |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY TEXAS GIRL From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 10:59 AM My Texas Girl is a western song recorded by the Carters in 1935. It appears the song is a rewrite of one of the "Sleepy Rio Grande" songs. According to Tex Rhinehart "Sleepy Rio Grande" is a mondegreen for "Silvery Rio Grande" so it's possible the song was "Silvery Rio Grande" at some point. Bob Miller's 1934 songbook had the song "Sleepy Rio grande." Other titles include: "Where the Sleepy Rio's Flowing," and "By the Sleepy Rio Grande." I'd bet the Carters song is based on the Carson Robison, Frank Luther song "Sleepy Rio Grande" backed by "When it's springtime in the Rockies" which was a huge hit for Victor in 1929. They recorded songs under the alias "Bud and Joe Billings" Anyone have the lyrics? MY TEXAS GIRL-Carter Family All my life I've wondered if what I done was wrong All I ever cared to do was ride my pony on I never had no heartache was always happy and gay Until I met a Texas girl who stole my heart away. CHORUS: Where the sleepy Rio Grande goes slowly to the sea It was there she promised to be mine throughout eternity But the angels they grew jealous of her beauty and her smile And came along one stormy night and stole away my bride The birds have hushed their singing sadness is over the land The birds miss my darling by the sleepy Rio Grande Her lips were like the Russian wine her hair it hung in curls Her cheeks were like the dawn of day that breaks upon the world She's gone and left me lonely I miss the touch of her hand Tonight while I am walking by the sleepy Rio Grande |
Subject: Lyr Add: MY VIRGINIA ROSE IS BLOOMING From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 11:51 AM My Virginia Rose Is Blooming is a song recorded by the Carters in 1935. The song was collected by Perry in the JOAFL 1945 but I don't have access to the lyrics and info. To me this seems like a rewrite by A.P. of "Yellow Rose of Texas:" There's a Yellow Rose in Texas She's waiting there for me. This probably is a song written by A.P. At this time A.P. and Sara were separated. MY VIRGINIA ROSE IS BLOOMING Carter Family- Original My Virginia rose is blooming She's waiting now for me In the hills of old Virginia Is where I long to be She wears a winning smile And her loving eyes are blue She's won my heart forever For she's a girl that's true Beneath the scarlet maple By the trickling little spring Was where I made the promise And gave to her the ring Springtime is approaching The birds and doves are here They are singing so sweetly But none can sing like her It's love that calls you to me My rose that never fades And lose its crimson leaves of love Love that's perfect made I long to see my darling There in the midst of dew With the sparkling dewdrops all around her She'll be a queen and a view She's a wild rose in the forest A fairy in a dream My darling's in Virginia Her age is just 16 It's a long, long ways from my darling Just a little too far to be My Virginia rose is blooming She's waiting now for me |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family son From: pdq Date: 10 Dec 08 - 12:45 PM ...I assume most of these have been covered, but maybe not: The Winding Road Over the Garden Wall Motherless Children The Evening Bells are Ringing Homestesd on the Farm Longing for Old Virginia The Foggy Mountain Top Thge Poor Orphan Child This is Like Heaven to Me Picture on the Wall March Winds Bring Back My Blue Eyed Boy to Me No Hiding Place Down Here Give Me YourLove Stern Old Batchelor Are You Lonesome Tonight? Old Cottage Home |
Subject: Lyr Add: NEVER LET THE DEVIL GET THE UPPER HAND OF From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 01:42 PM Hi pdq, Right now we're going alphabetically from A. We're on N. Never Let the Devil Get the Upper Hand of You is the 1937 Carter Family version of the traditional ballad, Knoxville Girl, which was first recorded in 1924 by Riley Puckett. "The Knoxville Girl" is the US version of the "Wittham Miller/Berkshire Tragedy/ Cruel Miller" large group of songs from the British Isles, originating as "The Bloody Miller" in 1684. In the US it is known as "The Wexford Girl," "The Oxford Tragedy," "The Expert Girl," Johnny McDowell," "The Prentice Boy," "Never Let the Devil Get the Upper Hand of You" (Carter Family version) as well as many similar names. NEVER LET THE DEVIL GET THE UPPER HAND OF YOU- Carter Family My tender parents brought me up Provided for me well Twas in the city of Lanson Town They placed me in a mill. It was there I spied a pretty fair miss On whom I cast my eye I asked her if she'd marry me And she believed a lie. Three weeks ago last Saturday night Of course it was the day The devil put it in my mind To take her life away. I went into her sisters house At eight o'clock one night But little did the creator think On her I had my spite. I asked her if she'd take a walk With me a little ways That she and I might have a talk About our wedding day. We walked along until we came To my little desert place I grabbed a stick off of the fence And struck her in the face. I run my fingers through her coal black hair To cover up my sin I drug her to the riverside And there I plunged her in. I started back unto my mill I met my servant John He asked me why I was so pale And it so very warm. Come all young men and warning take Unto your lovers be true And never let the devil get The upper hand of you |
Subject: Lyr Add: NO DEPRESSION (IN HEAVEN) From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 09:18 PM No Depression in Heaven also known as "No Depression" is a song that was first recorded by the original Carter Family in 1936 during the Great Depression 1929-1938). The song is based on the 1936 "No Depression in Heaven" by James David Vaughan and was published in his songbooks. James David Vaughan (1864-1941) was a music teacher, composer, song book publisher, the founder of the Vaughan Conservatory of Music and the James D. Vaughan Publishing Company. Vaughan was born in Giles County, Tennessee on December 14, 1864, the son of George Washington and Eliza (Shores) Vaughan. He died February 9, 1941. Vaughan is generally considered to be the founder of the genre now known as "Southern Gospel" music. He started the James D. Vaughan Music Publishing Company in 1902 and in 1910, he was the first to establish a professional quartet and put them on the road for the purpose of selling songbooks. The Vaughan School of Music was formed in 1911. Numerous gospel performers would study there in the following years. In 1912, Vaughan began the Vaughan Family Visitor, an influential publication across the South during the early 20th century. In 1922, Vaughan founded one of the first radio stations in Tennessee, WOAN, where he broadcasted Southern Gospel music until 1930. He also founded the first record company based in the South, Vaughan Phonograph Records. Vaughan was also involved in local politics, serving as mayor of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee from 1923 to 1927, a position his brother Charles Wesley and son would hold after him. NO DEPRESSION (IN HEAVEN)- CARTER FAMILY (1936) This song was recorded by The Original Carter Family for Decca (De 5242) in New York, NY, Monday, 8 Jun 1936 (another take remained unissued). It was re-recorded (for radio transcription use) on Wednesday, 10 Jun 1936. For fear the hearts of men are failing, For these are latter days we know. The Great Depression now is spreading, God's word declared it would be so. CHORUS: I'm going where there's no depression, To the lovely land that's free from care. I'll leave this world of toil and trouble, My home's in Heaven, I'm going there. In that bright land, there'll be no hunger, No orphan children cryin' for bread, No weeping widows, toil or struggle, No shrouds, no coffins, and no death. This dark hour of midnight nearing And tribulation time will come. The storms will hurl in midnight fear And sweep lost millions to their doom. |
Subject: Lyr Add: NO MORE THE MOON SHINES ON LORENA From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 10:20 PM No More the Moon Shines on Lorena is a Carter Family song recorded in 1930. It includes the remarkable line, "the possum playing on the wild bananas" and was written by Louis Staab circa 1889. The song has been recorded titled as "Lorena" "Lorina" and "Lorrainna" according to Meade. Unfortunately Meade didn't realize there was another song with a similar name. The other song is the Civil War song "Lorena" which is a different yet similar song with Words: H.D.L. Webster/Music: J.P. Webster from 1857 titled Lorena. Here's Webster's song: The years creep slowly by, Lorena; The snow is on the grass again, The Sun's low down the sky, Lorena, The frost gleams where the flowers have been. Perhaps Stabb's song is a rewrite of "Answer to Lorena" by Paul Vane, which would make it a rewrite of a rewrite. Then the Carters would be a rewrite of a rewrite of a rewrite- oh well. NO MORE THE MOON SHINES ON LORENA Carter Family- Original [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Way down upon the old plantation Old massa used to own me as a slave He had a yeller gal he called Lorena And we courted where the wild bananas wave For long years there we courted And we were as happy as one And my heart works for dear massa And the happiness of life is just begun No more the moon shines on Lorena As we stood and watched the coon among the corn And the possum playing on the wild bananas And the old owl a-hooting like a horn [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] One day I called to see my dear Lorena I thought she would meet me at the gate But they took her away to old Virginny And left me to mourn for her fate For years I had longed to see her And the thoughts of her was ever in my head One day massa read me a letter Telling me that Lorena was dead No more the moon shines on Lorena As we stood and watched the coon among the corn And the possum playing on the wild bananas And the old owl a-hooting like a horn But I know that her soul has gone to heaven And there she is ever free from pain And to her a brighter crown is given And no more she will wear the darkie's chain No more the moon shines on Lorena As we stood and watched the coon among the corn And the possum playing on the wild bananas And the old owl a-hooting like a horn [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] |
Subject: Lyr Add: NO OTHER'S BRIDE I'LL BE From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 10:35 PM No Other's Bride I'll Be is taken fron CA White's 1869 song "Widow in the Cottage by the Sea." Meade references another publication in 1869 by C. P. Bishop. The Carter's title was probably made to avoid copyright issues. Another song "Cottage by the Sea" by J. R Thomas is a diferent song. NO OTHER'S BRIDE I'LL BE- Carter Family Just one year ago today love I became your happy bride Changed a mansion for a cottage To live by the river side You told me I'd be happy But no happiness I see For tonight I am a widow In a cottage by the sea CHORUS: All alone by the seaside he left me And no other's bride I'll be For in bridal flowers he begged me In the cottage by the sea From my cottage by the seaside I can see my mansion home I can see those hills and valleys Where with pleasure I have roamed The last time that I saw him Oh how happy then were we But tonight I am a widow In the cottage by the sea |
Subject: Lyr Add: NO TELEPHONE IN HEAVEN From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 11:36 PM No Telephone in Heaven was recorded by the Carter Family in 1930. Meade refernces Delaney's Recitations #3 (Willian W. Delaney Circa 1910) as an early source The song is based on the 1899 Werner's Readings and Recitations. Here is the link: http://books.google.com/books?id=THsCAAAAYAAJ&pg=RA1-PA171&dq=No+Telephone+in+Heaven&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html NO TELEPHONE IN HEAVEN- (A.P. Carter) "Now I can't wait on baby," the smiling merchant said As he stooped and softly toyed with his golden curly head. "I want to call up mama," came the answer full and free. "Could you telephone and ask her when she is coming back to me?" CHORUS: "My child," the merchant murmured as he struck the anxious brow, "No telephone connection where your mother lives at now. No telephone in heaven!" And the tears spring in her eyes. "I thought God had everything with him up in the skies." "Tell her that I get so lonesome, that I don't know what to do. And papa cries so much, I guess he must be lonesome too. Tell her to come to baby 'cause at night I get so 'fraid With no one there to kiss me when the lights begin to fade. "All through the day I wander since my dolly's got so sore From the awful punching brother give it with his little sword. They ain't no one to fix it since mama's gone away, And poor little lonesome dolly is getting thinner every day." |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 10 Dec 08 - 11:54 PM Hi, Here's the next batch of original Carter songs. We're about 2/3 of the way through with about 100 songs left. Thanks for everyone's help. Oh, Take Me Back; On a Hill Lone and Gray; On My Way to Canaan's Land; On the Rock Where Moses Stood; On the Sea of Galilee; One Little Word; Only Girl (I Ever Cared About); Over the Garden Wall; Picture on the Wall; Poor Little Orphaned Boy; Poor Orphan Child; Rambling Boy; Reckless Motorman; River of Jordan; Room in Heaven for Me; Anyone? |
Subject: Lyr Add: OH TAKE ME BACK From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 12:06 AM Oh, Take Me Back is a 1938 blues by the Carters based on traditional blues lyrics. Looks like the 3rd verse could be original. Leslie Riddle was an influence on the Carters blues songs. OH TAKE ME BACK- Carter Family [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Woke up this morning and I could not keep from crying Woke up this morning and I could not keep from crying My good gal left me With a troubling mind [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, just look where that evening sun has gone Oh, just look where that evening sun has gone Gone down behind the mountain And it won't be back till morn [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, hand me that long distance phone Oh, hand me that long distance phone Gonna talk to my honey All night long [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, take me back and try me one more time Oh, take me back and try me one more time And if I don't do Then send me down the line [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] |
Subject: Lyr Add: ON A HILL LONE AND GREY From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 09:35 AM On a Hill Lone and Gray (There's A Hill Lone and Grey) is a southern gospel song the Carters recorded twice; the first time in 1932 for Victor unissued and the second for Bluebird in 1934. The song was written by Beverly Francis Caradine and appears in Truths and Triumphs for Revivals in 1894. Carradine pastored a large Methodist congregation in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1893, he became a full time evangelist, and held services in many parts of the United States. He was forced to retire after being injured in an accident in Seattle, Washington, in 1918. His works include: Best of All, with William Kirkpatrick & C. J. Fowler Church Entertainments: Twenty Objections Golden Sheaves Heart Talks A Journey to Palestine Pastoral Sketches Revival Incidents The Carters 1932 recording for Victor was probably unissued because Peer could not obtain an original copyright for the song. Below the Carters lyrics I've included the original lyrics for comparison. ON A HILL LONE AND GREY-Carter family On a hill lone and gray In a land far away In a country beyond the blue sea Where beneath that far sky Went a man for to die For the world and for you and for me. CHORUS: Oh it bows down my heart And the tear drops do start When in memory that gray hill I see It was there on its side Jesus suffered yes he died To redeem a poor sinner like me Hark, I hear the dull blow Of the hammer swung low They are nailing my lord to the tree With the cross he upraised While the multitude gazed He ascended that hill lone and gray. CHORUS: Shout aloud then my soul Let the glad tidings roll From the land to the end of the sea Where beneath that far sky Went a man for to die For the world and for you and for me THERE'S A HILL LONE AND GREY- Words:CARRADINE Music:John B. Bryant There's a hill lone and grey, in a land far away, In a country beyond the blue sea, Where beneath that fair sky went a Man forth to die For the world and for you and for me. Refrain Oh, it bows down my heart And the teardrops will start, When in mem'ry that grey hill I see. For 'twas there on its side, Jesus suffered and died To redeem a poor sinner like me. Behold! faint on the road, 'neath a world's heavy load, Comes a thorn crownèd Man on the way, With a cross He is bowed, but still on through the crowd He's ascending that hill lone and grey. Refrain Hark! I hear the dull blow of the hammer swung low; They are nailing my Lord to the tree, And the cross they upraised while the multitude gaze On the blest Lamb of dark Calvary. Refrain How they mock Him in death, to His last lab'ring breath, While His friends sadly weep o'er the way; But though lonely and faint, still no word of complaint Fell from Him on the hill lone and grey. Refrain Then the darkness came down and the rocks rent around, And a cry pierced the grief laden air; 'Twas the voice of our King Who received death's dark sting, All to save us from endless despair. Refrain Let the sun hide its face, let the earth reel apace, Over men who their Savior have slain; But behold from the sod, comes the blest Lamb of God, Who was slain and is risen again. Refrain |
Subject: Lyr Add: ON MY WAY TO CANAAN'S LAND From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 10:10 AM On My Way to Canaan's Land usually known as "I'm on my Way to Canaan's Land" or just "I'm On My Way," is from the African-American traditional. It was recorded by the Golden Gate Jubilee Quartet, and Blind Gussie Nesbit. The Pace Jubilee Singers 1927 recording was titled "I'll Journey On." The Carter's 1930 recording surely came from Leslie Riddle/Pauline Gary- two African-Americans the Carters collected black gospel songs. According to one author, Bernice Johnson Reagon, the song come from the traditional "If You Go Don't Hinder Me." She also says Canaan refers to Cananda, or escaping to Canada. She gives no direct links to earlier songs. During the 60s Civil Rights movement the song was changed to "I'm on my way to Freedom land." ON MY WAY TO CANAAN'S LAND-Carter Family I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way If father won't go, it won't hinder me If father won't go, it won't hinder me If father won't go, it won't hinder me I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way If mother won't go, it won't hinder me If mother won't go, it won't hinder me If mother won't go, it won't hinder me I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way If sister won't go, it won't hinder me If sister won't go, it won't hinder me If sister won't go, it won't hinder me I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way Oh, be baptized in Jesus' name Oh, be baptized in Jesus' name Oh, be baptized in Jesus' name I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way to Canaan's land I'm on my way (Praise God) I'm on my way |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 10:32 AM A version of "I'm On My Way" was recorded in 1926 by Bo Weavil Jackson titled "I'm on My Way to the Kingdom Land" and also by the New Gospel Keys. I'd like to find an early source for this song. Anyone? |
Subject: Lyr Add: ON THE ROCK WHERE MOSES STOOD From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 02:43 PM On the Rock Where Moses Stood is a song I've played many times as "Crying Holy Unto The Lord." The Carters recorded their version in 1930 presumably collected and taught to them via Pauline Grey and Leslie Riddle. It's from the African American tradition being first recorded by the Norfolk Jubilee Quartet in 1924 as "Crying to the Lord." It's perhaps derived from the spiritual Elijah Rock ON THE ROCK WHERE MOSES STOOD- Carter Family 1930 Crying Holy unto the Lord Crying Holy unto the Lord Oh, in that day when the bells don't toll Crying Holy unto the Lord Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Oh, if I could, I surely would (If I could....surely would) Stand on the rock.............where Moses stood (Praise God, where Moses stood) [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Sinners, run unto the Lord Sinners, run unto the Lord Now please don't let this harvest pass And lose your soul at last Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Oh, if I could, I surely would (If I could....surely would) Stand on the rock.............where Moses stood (Praise God, where Moses stood) [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Crying Holy unto the Lord Crying Holy unto the Lord The four and twenty elders bowing all around the altar Crying Holy unto the Lord Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Crying Ho................ly unto the Lord (Crying Holy unto the Lord............Holy unto the Lord) Oh, if I could, I surely would (If I could....surely would) Stand on the rock.............where Moses stood (Praise God, where Moses stood) [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] |
Subject: Lyr Add: ON THE SEA OF GALILEE From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 06:03 PM On the Sea of Galilee is a spiritual recorded by the Carters in 1933 for Victor and then they changed the name to avoid copyright issue and recorded the song for Bluebird in 1935 as "Sea of Galilee." One verse comes from Isaac Watts circa 1709 and it appears in the Sacred Harp. Any other versions or info would be welcome. ON THE SEA OF GALILEE Carter Family Am I a soldier of the cross A follower of the Lamb And shall I fear to own His cause Or blush to speak His name On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Must I be carried to the skies On flowery beds of ease While others walk to win the prize And sail through bloody seas On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] There shall I bathe my weary soul In seas of heavenly rest And not a wave of trouble roll Across my peaceful breast On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea On the sea (the sea, the sea) Of Galilee (of Galilee) My Jesus is walking on the sea |
Subject: Lyr Add: AM I A SOLDIER OF THE CROSS? From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 07:27 PM AM I A SOLDIER OF THE CROSS? Am I a soldier of the cross, A follower of the Lamb, And shall I fear to own His cause, Or blush to speak His Name? Must I be carried to the skies On flowery beds of ease, While others fought to win the prize, And sailed through bloody seas? Words: Isaac Watts, appended to his Sermons, published 1721-4; Watts wrote this hymn in conjunction with a sermon he was giving on 1 Corinthians 16:13. For a different arrangement, see When the Battle's Over. Music: Arlington, Thomas A. Arne, 1762; arranged by Ralph Harrison in his Sacred Harmony–A Collection of Psalmtunes, Ancient and Modern (London: 1784) (MIDI, score). Alternate tune: |
Subject: Lyr Add: ONE LITTLE WORD From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 07:43 PM One Little Word is another Carter Family song based on an 1899 song written by Gussie Davis. ONE LITTLE WORD Carter Family The dream of love is over Today we said goodbye We parted not in anger Though tears came in her eyes 'Twas just as fate decreed, dear That we should never wed Yet in her heart she loved me She married wealth instead One little word could've changed my future life One little word could've made her my wife Too late, too late, now my fondest hopes are dead One little word, that word was never said [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Since schooldays we had been sweethearts She was her father's pride Her folks lived in a mansion Our cottage by its side Though years have brought their changes The same old love tale told She wed to please her parents A man of wealth and gold One little word could've changed my future life One little word could've made her my wife Too late, too late, now my fondest hopes are dead One little word, that word was never said |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 07:58 PM Only Girl (I Ever Cared About); |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 08:08 PM Only Girl (I Ever Cared About) is "You Are The Only Girl I Ever Cared About" Will Cobb- Words; Gus Edwards- Music in 1899. |
Subject: Lyr Add: OVER THE GARDEN WALL From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 08:21 PM Over the Garden Wall is a song Sara Carter said "that was an old ballet given to us by an old lady in Tennessee." The song was written by the minstrel showmen Harry Hunter and George D. Fox in 1879. In the companion book for the Bear Family's set of the complete recordings of the Carter Family, Charles Wolfe wrote that the song was popularized in the 1890s by the vaudeville singer Tony Pastor and then moved into the folk tradition. Judging from the number of publishers who have issued editions of it (see the Library of Congress American Memory site), it must've been quite the hit. The Carters sang only two verses, the first and fourth, with only slight alterations. Their melody is rather different from Fox's, but still resembles the original closely in spots. OVER THE GARDEN WALL A. P. Carter My love stood under a walnut tree, Over the garden wall. She whispered and said she'd be true to me, Over the garden wall. She has beautiful eyes and beautiful hair, She's not very tall so she stood in a chair. Many a time I kissed her there, Over the garden wall. CHORUS: Over the garden wall, The sweetest girl of all. There never were yet Such eyes of jet, And you can bet I'll never forget The night our lips in kisses met, Over the garden wall. There's always a will, there's always a way, Over the garden wall. There's always a night, as well as the day, Over the garden wall. We hadn't much money, but weddin's were cheap, So while the old feller was snoring asleep, With a lad and ladder she managed to creep, Over the garden wall. CHORUS OVER THE GARDEN WALL(1879) words by Harry Hunter music by G[eorge] D. Fox 1. Oh, my love stood under the walnut tree, Over the garden wall, She whispered and said she'd be true to me, Over the garden wall, She'd beautiful eyes and beautiful hair, She was not very tall so she stood in a chair, And Many a time have I kissed her there, Over the garden wall. CHORUS Over the garden wall, The sweetest girl of all. There never were yet such eyes of jet, And you can bet I'll never forget The night our lips in kisses met, Over the garden wall. 2. But her father stamped and her father raved, Over the garden wall, And like an old madman he behaved, Over the garden wall, She made a bouquet of roses red, But immediately I popped up my head, He gave me a bucket of water instead, Over the garden wall. CHO. 3. One day I jumped down on the other side, Over the garden wall, And she bravely promised to be my bride, Over the garden wall, But she screamed in a fright, "Here's father, quick, I have an impression he's bringing a stick." But I brought the impression of half a brick, Over the garden wall. CHO. 4. But where there's a will, there's always a way, Over the garden wall, There's always a night as well as the day, Over the garden wall ; We hadn't much money, but wedding's are cheap, So while the old fellow was snoring asleep, With a lad and ladder, she managed to creep Over the garden wall. CHO. |
Subject: Lyr Add: PICTURE ON THE WALL From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 08:58 PM From the DT: The Carters recorded 'Picture on the Wall' on February 23 1932. It is credited by Wolfe to Landress and almost certainly learned from the 1927 Yellow Hammers hit recording. Wolfe says Sara recalled that they had learned it 'from an old record'. From the notes to The Georgia Yellow Hammers lp, Rounder 1032, 1979: This was the band's most successful recording; in 1953 Bud Landress gave an account of its composition to an Atlanta newspaper writer. "Landress, who spent a good deal of his time farming, said he was inspired to write the song one night after he had plowed corn all day. After going to bed, he became fascinated with a picture hanging on the wall of his bedroom and the idea to make the song about it was born. The picture, however, was not one of his mother, about whom the song was written. He got out of bed, wrote the words and 'sawed out the tune' on his old fiddle. Several hours later when the composition was finished, he awakened his wife and sang it to her for an opinion, which probably wasn't very good at that time of night." There's a good chance Landress based his song on one of the earlier "Picture on the Wall" songs found at American Memory. They made big money on the song, crediting it to another source wasn't something usally done. See the DT for other similar versions. PICTURE ON THE WALL- Carter Family There's an old and faded picture on the wall That has been a-hanging there for many a year 'Tis a picture of my mother, for I know there is no other That can take the place of mother on the wall On the wall (On the wall) On the wall (On the wall) How I love that dear old picture on the wall Time is swiftly passing by and I bow my head and cry 'Cause I know I'll meet my mother after all [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Yes, the children all have gathered, all have gone And I have a little family of my own And I know I love them well, more than any tongue can tell But I'll hold that dear old picture on the wall On the wall (On the wall) On the wall (On the wall) How I love that dear old picture on the wall Time is swiftly passing by and I bow my head and cry 'Cause I know I'll meet my mother after all [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Since I lost that dear old mother years ago There is none to which with troubles I can go As my guitar makes its chords I am praying to the Lord Let me hold that dear old picture on the wall On the wall (On the wall) On the wall (On the wall) How I love that dear old picture on the wall Time is swiftly passing by and I bow my head and cry 'Cause I know I'll meet my mother after all |
Subject: Lyr Add: POOR LITTLE ORPHANED BOY From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 09:27 PM According to Meade "Poor Little Orphaned Boy" appeared in print in 1874. The song is apparently traditional. The first recording was made in 1928 by Buell Kazee followed by the Carter Family's 1933 recording. POOR LITTLE ORPHANED BOY- Carter Family 1933 My mother died when I was young My sisters, they were sad They laid their hands upon my head And taught me how to pray So now, my mother, she's gone to rest In the land of purest joy And I wonder if she thinks of me Her poor little orphaned boy [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When I was only two years old I never shall forget A parting kiss she gave to me I sometimes feel it yet So now, my mother, she's gone to rest In the land of purest joy And I wonder if she thinks of me Her poor little orphaned boy [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When I was sick, in every hour She watched me as I lay And with her kind and gentle hand She smoothed me tenderly So now, my mother, she's gone to rest In the land of purest joy And I wonder if she thinks of me Her poor little orphaned boy [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] So now I press this world alone Her love with me shall stay And from the throne above the skies Her smile shall rest on me So now, my mother, she's gone to rest In the land of purest joy And I wonder if she thinks of me Her poor little orphaned boy |
Subject: Lyr Add: POOR ORPHAN CHILD From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 09:35 PM Poor Orphan Child is the gospel song "Saviour Lead Them Orphans" by H.W. Elliot and Emmett Dean in 1898. POOR ORPHAN CHILD- Carter Family I hear a low faint voice that says My papa and mama's dead And it comes from the poor orphan child That must be clothed and fed And it comes from the poor orphan child That must be clothed and fed And it comes from the poor orphan child That must be clothed and fed Savior, lead...................them by the hand (Savior, lead them by the hand, yes, gently lead them by the hand) Savior, lead...................them by the hand (Savior, lead them by the hand, yes, gently lead them by the hand) Savior, lead...................them by the hand (Savior, lead them by the hand, yes, gently lead them by the hand) Till they all reach that glittering strand (Till they all reach that glittering strand) We see so many children now Poor little boys and girls Who want that mother's loving hand To smooth their golden curls Who want that mother's loving hand To smooth their golden curls Who want that mother's loving hand To smooth their golden curls [CHORUS] But now we see those wandering curls Hang careless 'round their brow They say to us, my papa's dead And I've no mother now They say to us, my papa's dead And I've no mother now They say to us, my papa's dead And I've no mother now [CHORUS] O Savior, every orphan bless Wherever they may roam Bless every hand that lends them aid And bless the orphan's home Bless every hand that lends them aid And bless the orphan's home Bless every hand that lends them aid And bless the orphan's home [CHORUS] |
Subject: Lyr Add: RAMBLING BOY (Carter Family) From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 10:02 PM Rambling Boy is classified by Laws as "The Wild and Wicked Youth" [Laws L12]. The English folk song dates to before 1830 (broadside, Bodleian Harding B 25(2054)). Here's info from the Ballad Index: REFERENCES (18 citations): Laws L12, "The Rambling Boy (Wild and Wicked Youth)" Belden, pp. 136-137, "The Rambling Boy" (1 text) Randolph 148, "The Rambling Boy" (2 texts, 1 tune) Warner 101, "The Rambling Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Sharp-100E 83, "The Robber" (1 text, 1 tune) Fuson, pp. 63-64, "The Rich Rambler" (1 text) Cambiaire, pp. 43-44, "The Wretched Rambling Boy" (1 text) Ritchie-Southern, pp. 91-92, "The Reckless and Rambling Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Combs/Wilgus 90, pp. 184-185, "The Rich and Rambling Boy" (1 text) Kennedy 326, "Newlyn Town" (1 text, 1 tune) OLochlainn-More 35, "The Newry Highwayman" (1 text, 1 tune) Zimmermann p. 96, "The Bold and Undaunted Youth" (1 text fragment) BrownII 121, "The Rambing Boy" (1 text) Lomax-FSNA 96, "The Ramblin' Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Cohen/Seeger/Wood, pp. 130-131, "The Rambling Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Thorp/Fife XIII, pp. 148-190 (29-30), "Cow Boy's Lament" (22 texts, 7 tunes, the "L" text being in fact a version of this piece) Darling-NAS, pp. 106-107, "The Rambling Boy" (1 text) RECORDINGS: O. J. Abbott, "The Bold and Undaunted Youth (The Rambling Boy)" (on Abbott1) Clarence Ashley & Tex Isley, "Rude and Rambling Man" (on Ashley01) Justus Begley, "The Roving Boy" (AFS, 1937; on KMM) Jumbo Brightwell, "Newry Town" (on Voice03) Carter Family, "The Rambling Boy" (Bluebird B-8990, 1941/Bluebird 33-0512, 1944) Wade Mainer, "Ramblin' Boy" (Bluebird 33-0512, 1944) New Lost City Ramblers, "Rambling Boy" (on NLCR05) Riley Puckett, "Ramblin' Boy" (Columbia 15605-D, 1930) Bob Scarce, "Newlyn Town" (on FSB7) BROADSIDES: Bodleian, Harding B 25(2054), "The Wild and Wicked Youth," T. Birt (London), 1828-1829; also Firth c.17(208), Harding B 11(576), Harding B 15(376a), Harding B 11(939), Firth c.17(6), Harding B 16(307a), Harding B 11(4205), Harding B 11(4211), Harding B 11(4212), Firth b.34(314), Harding B 11(3519A), Firth c.17(7), 2806 c.16(325), Harding B 17(338a), Harding B 20(117), Harding B 17(337b), "The Wild and Wicked Youth"; Harding B 28(235), "The Highway Man's Fate"; Harding B 26(67), "The Bold and Undaunted Youth" ("In Stephen's-green I was bred and born"), J. Moore (Belfast), 1852-1868 ALTERNATE TITLES: The Rake and Rambling Boy Adieu Adieu Notes: The Bodleian "The Wild and Wicked Youth" broadsides, and OLochlainn-More 35, include a version of the lines "I robbed Lord Mansfield I do declare, ... Lord Fielding's gang they did me pursue And taken I was, by that cursed crew." The Bodleian notes to 2806 c.16(325) include references to the cast of characters: "Fielding, John, Sir, d. 1780; Mansfield, W.R., Baron Sandhurst, 1819-1876" Broadside Bodleian Harding B 26(67) is another example of the "I robbed Lord Mansfield I do declare" group. Zimmermann's fragment seems to be from this version. In this case he falls in with "Fieldskin gang." - BS Given the date of the song, I would think the Mansfield involved more likely to be William Murray, first Earl of Mansfield (1706-1793), who was Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench from 1756. This has at least sometimes been corrupted to Lord Melbourne, presumably William Lamb, second Viscount Melbourne (1779-1848), the Prime Minister (on and off) from 1834 to 1841. But Mansfield is closer to the Era of the Highwaymen -- and, as Chief Justice, someone they would doubtless enjoy taking. Fielding in fact might refer to John Fielding or his brother Henry, the author (died 1755). Henry Fielding was driven by poverty to take a post as Commissioner of the Peace for Middlesex in 1748. John Fielding, despite being blind, succeeded him in 1754 -- and dramatically improved law enforcement, though he didn't have the funding to carry out all his reforms. Still, he did enough that life became much harder for the highwaymen. "Fielding's Gang" is presumably the Bow Street Patrol, founded by the Fieldings as the first almost-national police force in England. RAMBLING BOY- Carter Family 1941 I was rich but a rambling boy Too many a city I did enjoy And there I married me a pretty little wife And I loved her dearer than I loved my life She was pretty both neat and gay She caused me to rob the road highway I robbed it yes I do declare I made myself ten thousand there Plenty dry goods for to carry me through My pistol, sword, my money too My forty-four she never failed My true love comes for to go my bail. My mother says she has no home My sister says she's all alone My wife she's left in sad despair With a broken heart and a baby fair. Now when I die dont bury me at all Just place me away in alcohol My forty-four lay by my feet Please tell them I am just asleep |
Subject: Lyr Add: RECKLESS MOTORMAN From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 11:21 PM Reckless Motorman is a Carter Family rewrite of the "Dying Brakeman" and the related "True and Trembling Brakeman" songs. According to Cohen a brakeman is also referred to as a motorman. He also said A.P collected the song on a collecting trip in Southwest Virginia in 1937 or 1938. So the song is traditional reworked by A.P. Carter. RECKLESS MOTORMAN-Carter Family 1938 Yonder stands the reckless motorman Who says his age is twenty one Standing by his mainline motor Saying folks what have I done Is it true I've killed my brakemen Is it true that he is dying Oh I tried to stop my motor But I could not stop in time See the cars stacked up on him See him raise his weary head See his sister standing by him Crying brother are you dead Sister sister I am dying Soon I'll be on yonder shore Soon I'll have a home in heaven There'll be no braking anymore Go and tell my youngest brother Take these words to an end To never start the day a braking For his life is sure to end Go tell my father who is weigh man What he weighs to weigh it fair There'll be no scales up in heaven For that meeting in the air |
Subject: Lyr Add: RIVER OF JORDAN (Carter Family) From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 11:43 PM River of Jordan is listed under Some of These Days [Me III-C 27]. To complicate maters there's different song by Shelton Brooks titled "Some of These Days." Additional complications result from a different song by the Poplin Family titled "River Of Jordan." I learned the song as "God's Gonna Set This World On Fire." Other names include: "I'm Gonna Sit at the Welcome Table" "We Gonna Walk the Streets of Washington," "Walking on the Streets of Glory," "I'm Gonna Sit at the Freedom Table" (civil rights movement song) "I'm Gonna Tell God How You Treat Me." "One of these Days" "Welcome Table" "Streets of Glory" "Jacob's Ladder" "Some of These Days" The earliest recording is the 1915 Fisk University Male Quartet then the 1922 Florida Normal Quartet. Some Recordings: Emmett Brand, "I'm Going to Cross the Rivers of Jordan, Some of These Days" (on MuSouth06) Carter Family, "River of Jordan" (Victor 21434, 1928; Montgomery Ward M-4430, 1934; on Babylon) Jaybird Coleman, "I'm Gonna Cross the River of Jordan - Some o' These Days" (Silvertone 5172, 1927; on Babylon) Florida Normal Quartet, "The Welcome Table" (OKeh 40079, 1924; rec. 1922) West Virginia Night Owls, "I'm Goin' to Walk on the Streets of Glory" (Victor 21533, 1928) Charles Owens w. Isabel Owens, "The Welcome Table" (on NovaScotia1) West Virginia Snake Hunters [John & Emery McClung], "Walk the Streets of Glory" (Brunswick 119, 1928, rec. 1927) Alice Wine, "I'm Gonna Sit at the Welcome Table" (on BeenStorm1) This is another song the Carters learned through their African-American sources Leslie Riddle and Pauline Gray. RIVER OF JORDAN- Carter Family 1934 [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I'm going down to the river of Jordan Oh, yes I'm going down to the river of Jordan Some of these days (hallelujah) I'm going down to the river of Jordan I'm going down to the river of Jordan Some of these days I'm going to eat at the welcome table Oh, yes I'm going to eat at the welcome table Some of these days (hallelujah) I'm going to eat at the welcome table I'm going to eat at the welcome table Some of these days [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I'm going to sing in the heavenly choir Oh, yes I'm going to sing in the heavenly choir Some of these days (hallelujah) I'm going to sing in the heavenly choir I'm going to sing in the heavenly choir Some of these days I'm going to put on the silvery slippers Oh, yes I'm going to put on the silvery slippers Some of these days (hallelujah) I'm going to put on the silvery slippers I'm going to put on the silvery slippers Some of these days [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I'm going to sit down by my Jesus Oh, yes I'm going to sit down by my Jesus Some of these days (hallelujah) I'm going to sit down by my Jesus I'm going to sit down by my Jesus Some of these days
- - - |
Subject: Lyr Add: ROOM IN HEAVEN FOR ME From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 11:53 PM Room in Heaven for Me is another James Vaughan song titled "Is There Room for Me?" written circa 1900. The Carters version was recorded in 1930. ROOM IN HEAVEN FOR ME- Carter Family 1930 [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Beyond the sea where fades such glorious dreams Where things are ours that eyes have never seen The soul's sweet home is blissful ever more Will there be room for me on that bright shore There's room...............Yes, room (room for you and me.....room for you and me) There's room.......For all (room for me....room enough for all) There's room....................For all (yes, there's room for me....room enough for all) Yes, room...................for..me (room enough in heaven, yes, room) (Instrumental) That wondrous city far beyond confine Where all is joy and peace so pure divine In visions I it's glittering streets can see And wonder if there's room in heaven for me There's room...............Yes, room (room for you and me.....room for you and me) There's room.......For all (room for me....room enough for all) There's room....................For all (yes, there's room for me....room enough for all) Yes, room...................for..me (room enough in heaven, yes, room) I long to soar away and be at rest And there to lean upon my Savior's breast Oh, won't that be a glorious victory To find that there is room in heaven for me There's room...............Yes, room (room for you and me.....room for you and me) There's room.......For all (room for me....room enough for all) There's room....................For all (yes, there's room for me....room enough for all) Yes, room...................for..me (room enough in heaven, yes, room) |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 11 Dec 08 - 11:55 PM Hi, The S titles are the next batch: School House on the Hill; See That My Grave Is Kept Green; Sad and Lonesome Day; Sailor Boy; Sea of Galilee; Single Girl, Married Girl; Sinking in the Lonesome Sea; Something Got a Hold of Me; Spirit of Love Watches Over Me; Sow 'Em on the Mountain; St. Regious Girl; Stern Old Bachelor; Storms Are on the Ocean; Sun of the Soul; Sunshine in the Shadows; Sweet as the Flowers in May Time; Sweet Fern; Sweet Heaven in My View; Anyone? |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 12:04 AM Here's the sheet music to Vaughan's "Is There Room For Me?" http://books.google.com/books?id=AQMca_ptzbMC&pg=PA6&dq=%22Is+There+Room+for+Me%22&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html |
Subject: Lyr Add: SCHOOL HOUSE ON THE HILL From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 12:12 AM School House on the Hill is another song by Aldine Kieffer titled "The School House On The Hill" from 1907. Aldine Silliman Kieffer (August 1, 1840 – November 30, 1904) was a leading 19th century proponent of shape note musical notation, music teacher and publisher. SCHOOL HOUSE ON THE HILL- Carter Family 1933 Fond memory paints its scenes of other years Bring me their memory still And bright amid those joyous scenes of years The schoolhouse on the hill Oh, the schoolhouse that stands upon the hill I never, never can forget Dear happy days are gathered 'round me still I never, no never can forget [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] There hangs the swing upon the maple tree Where you and I once swung There flows the spring, forever flowing free As when we both were young Oh, the schoolhouse that stands upon the hill I never, never can forget Dear happy days are gathered 'round me still I never, no never can forget [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] There climbs the vines and there the berries grow Which once would rise so high And there the ripe nuts glistened in the grove Of rich October skies Oh, the schoolhouse that stands upon the hill I never, never can forget Dear happy days are gathered 'round me still I never, no never can forget |
Subject: Lyr Add: SEE THAT MY GRAVE IS KEPT GREEN (Carter) From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 08:19 AM See That My Grave Is Kept Green is based on Gus William's 1879 song which can be found in the DT and at American Memory. Speculation about Williams song being the the source for Blind Lemon Jefferson's "see that my Grave is Kept Clean" is unfounded and only the title itself appears to have been used in the Jefferson blues song. The Carters made the third Country Music recording in 1933. SEE THAT MY GRAVE IS KEPT GREEN-Carter Family 1933 When I am dead and gone from you, darling When I am laid away in my grave When my spirit has gone to heaven above To him whom my soul will save Oh, the day will come to you, darling When no more on earth I'll be seen There's one little wish, darling, grant me See that my grave is kept green When from this world I go Leaving forever the scene While others are dead, oh, will you then See that my grave is kept green [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, the hour of joy is passing But, alas, how soon it will fade Your glances of love are meeting my own And sunlight will turn to shade Oh, the day will come to you, darling When no more on earth I'll be seen There's one little wish, darling, grant me See that my grave is kept green When from this world I go Leaving forever the scene While others are dead, oh, will you then See that my grave is kept green [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I shall never be happy again, my love Never be happy again For girls in their teens don't know what love means I shall never be happy again When from this world I go Leaving forever the scene While others are dead, oh, will you then See that my grave is kept green |
Subject: Lyr Add: SAD AND LONESOME DAY From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 09:00 AM Sad and Lonesome Day is a blues based on Blind Lemon Jefferson's "See that my Grave is Kept Clean." The Carters probably learned it from a member of their Kingsport blues group that included Brownie McGee, Leslie Riddle and Sam Lyons. The Songs is also known as "Two White Horses in a Line" and "One Kind Favor." Jefferson recorded his song in 1927. The Carter Family's "Sad and Lonesome Day": Victor 23835, 1933; Melotone 7-04-53/Conqueror 8735, 1937; SAD AND LONESOME DAY- Carter Family Oh today has been a lonesome day Today has been a lonesome day Today has been a lonesome day And seems tomorrow 'll be the same old way Oh, they carried my mother to the burying ground Oh, they carried my mother to the burying ground Oh, they carried my mother to the burying ground And watched as the bearers let her down Did you ever hear a church bell tone Did you ever hear a church bell tone Did you ever hear a church bell tone You may know by that she's dead and gone Oh, dig my grave with a silver spade Oh, dig my grave with a silver spade Oh, dig my grave with a silver spade And mark the place where I must lay There's one kind favor I ask of you There's one kind favor I ask of you There's one kind favor I ask of you That's to see that my grave is kept green See That My Grave is Kept Clean- Blind Lemon Jefferson Well its one kindfavor I ask of you Well, it's one kind favor I ask of you Lord, its one kind thing, I'll ask of you See that my grave is kept clean It's a long lane ain't got no end (3X) It's a bad way that don' ever change Lord, it's two white horses in a line (3X) Will take me to my burrying ground My heart stopped beating and my hands got cold (3X) It's a long, long story that the bible told Have you ever heard a coffin sound? (3X) Then you know that the poor boy is in the ground Oh, dig my grave with a silver spade (3X) You may lead me down with a golden chain Have you ever heard the church bell toll? (3X) Then you know that the poor boy's dead and gone |
Subject: Lyr Add: SAILOR BOY From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 09:20 AM Sailor Boy is a traditional ballad listed as The Faithful Sailor Boy [Laws K13] and by Meade as Sailor Boy's Farewell. It was first recorded by Gid Tanner of Skillet Licker fame in 1924. Vernon Dalhart's 1925 version titled "Sailor Boy's Farewell" was popular. Here's info from the ballad index: EARLIEST DATE: 1859 FOUND IN: US(MA,SE) Ireland Britain Canada(Mar) REFERENCES (10 citations): Laws K13, "The Faithful Sailor Boy" Doerflinger, p. 164, "The Sailor Boy" (1 short text, 1 tune) SHenry H543, p. 103, "The Sailor Boy" (1 text, 1 tune); also probably H678, p. 89, "The Irish Soldier Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Ranson, pp. 32-33, "The Faithful Sailor Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) McBride 60, "The Sailor Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) Manny/Wilson 68, "The Faithful Sailor Boy" (1 text, 1 tune) BrownII 111, "The Faithful Sailor Boy" (1 text plus mention of 3 more) Chappell-FSRA 33, "Sailor Boy" (1 text) Fuson, pp. 61-62, "The Soldier Boy" (1 text) BROADSIDES: NLScotland, L.C.Fol.70(64a), "The Sailor Boy," Poet's Box (Dundee), c. 1890 Notes: G. W. Persley has been listed as the author of this piece, but the song appears older. The Sam Henry text "The Irish Soldier Boy" lacks many of the elements of fuller versions of this song, and also has a slightly different form. But it has so many elements in common with Laws K13 that I think it must be listed here. If it isn't Laws K13, it's swallowed several verses whole. SAILOR BOY- Carter Family 'Twas on one dark and stormy night The snow was on the ground The sailor boy was at his post His ship was outward bound. His sweetheart standing by his side She mourned a bitter tear Though as he pressed her to his side He whispered in her ear "Farewell, my own true love This parting gives me pain And you will be my guiding star 'Til I return again!" "And then I think of you, my love While storms are raging high Then, oh sweetheart, remember me Your faithful sailor boy." "Twas sad to say the ship returned Without the sailor boy For he had died while on the sea His flag was held most high And as his shipmate steps on shore To tell that he was dead A letter that he gave to her These words it sadly read "Farewell, my own true love On earth we'll meet no more Though may we meet in heaven above Where parting is no more!" |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 09:25 AM Sea of Galilee is another title for "On the Sea of Galilee" which was recorded twice by the Carters with two titles. It is already covered above under the O titles "On the Sea of Galilee." |
Subject: Lyr Add: SINGLE GIRL MARRIED GIRL From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 09:39 AM Single Girl, Married Girl is a traditional ballad that the Carters recorded at their first session in Bristol, then again in 1935. According to the Carters biography the song came from Mollie Carter, A.P.'s mother and it was a well-known old song. SINGLE GIRL MARRIED GIRL- Carter Family 1927 and 1935 Single girl, single girl, she's going dressed so fine, Oh, she's going dressed so fine. Married girl, married girl, she wears just any kind, Oh, she wears just any kind. Single girl, single girl, she goes to the store and buys, Oh, she goes to the store and buys. Married girl, married girl, she rocks the cradle and cries, Oh, she rocks the cradle and cries. Single girl, single girl, she's going where she please, Oh, she's going where she please. Married girl, married girl, a baby on her knees, Oh, a baby on her knees. |
Subject: Lyr Add: SINKING IN THE LONESOME SEA From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 10:14 AM Sinking in the Lonesome Sea is the Carter's 1935 version of "The Golden Willow Tree" or "Lowlands Low" which is the English ballad "The Golden Vanity" Child 286. The song dates back to a 1685 broadside. No sense going into the history or details here. There's info in the DT. SINKING IN THE LONESOME SEA- Carter Family 1935 There was a little ship and it sailed upon the sea And she went by the name of the Merry Golden Tree As she sailed upon the low and lonesome low As she sailed upon the lonesome sea There was a little sailor unto his captain said Oh, Captain, Captain, what'll you give to me If I sink her in the low and lonesome low If I sink her in the lonesome sea 500 Dollars I'll give unto thee And my oldest daughter I'll wed unto thee If you'll sink her in the low and lonesome low If you'll sink her in the lonesome sea He bowed his head and away swam he Till he come to the ship called the Turkish Reveille And she sanken in the low and lonesome low She sanken in the lonesome sea If it wasn't for the love of your daughter and your men I would do unto you as I did unto them I would sink you in the low and lonesome low I would sink you in the lonesome sea |
Subject: Lyr Add: SOMETHING'S GOT A HOLD OF ME From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 10:39 AM Something Got a Hold of Me is a gospel song recorded by the Carters in 1941 that is probably based on Warren Caplinger's verson from the 1930s. Warren Caplinger, is best known as "Cap" of Cap, Andy and Flip, a gospel singing trio who played over WMMN, Fairmont. Here's a bio: A very popular West Virginia radio act of the 30s, it comprised Cap (b. Samuel Warren Caplinger, 16 June 1889, Kanawha Station near Parkersburg, Wood County, West Virginia, USA, d. 7 July 1957; guitar), Andy (b. Andrew Patterson, 28 August 1893, Petros, Tennessee, USA, d. 19 November 1950; fiddle, guitar, vocals) and Flip (b. William Austin Strickland, 28 November 1908, Blount County, Alabama, USA, d. 21 July 1988; banjo, mandolin, tenor vocals). Cap worked as a miner before relocating to Tennessee, where he met Andy. In 1928, after forming a string band with George Rainey and his two sons, they went to Ashland, Kentucky, where, as Warren Caplinger's Cumberland Mountain Entertainers, they recorded nine sides for Brunswick and Vocalion. Soon afterwards, Cap relocated to Akron, Ohio. Andy made further recordings for Columbia, with the McCartt Brothers, before rejoining Cap in Akron, where they formed the Dixie Harmonizers. They became regulars on radio in Akron and Cleveland and made further recordings, this time for Gennett. They also, as the Pine Ridge String Band, worked with Lum And Abner on a network show in Cleveland, during which time, Grandpa Jones, then a youngster just starting his career, was a member of their band. In 1930, the trio commenced its very successful radio career when Flip, who had already worked on radio, joined Cap and Andy. During the 30s, the trio became very popular, not only at Akron and Columbus, Ohio, but also on stations in West Virginia and Kentucky, including WWVA Wheeling, WMMN Fairmont, and WCHS Charleston. During this very successful time, they published several songbooks but had little interest in making records, although in 1939/40, they had recorded nine sides for the Fireside Melodies label that are still awaiting reissue. They made further recordings in the mid-40s for a local label, but they appear to have been lost. They hold the distinction of being the first act to popularize "Roane County Prison". By 1940, when Flip left, the act was based at Charleston and their repertoire consisted mainly of gospel numbers. Milt Strickland (Flip's 16-year-old son) joined Cap and Andy and the act continued until Andy's poor health saw them finally disband in 1949. Patterson relocated to Harriman, Tennessee, while Cap worked for a time as a disc jockey on local Charleston radio stations. Andy died in 1950 and was buried at St. Albans, West Virginia. When Cap died in 1957, he was buried near his old partner. In the early 40s, Flip worked with Curly Fox And Texas Ruby on the Grand Ole Opry, but he eventually relocated to Indiana, where he continued to play with various groups in the 70s. In 1979, he retired to his native Alabama, where he died in 1988; he is buried in Gallipolis, Ohio, his wife's home. SOMETHING'S GOT A HOLD OF ME- Carter Family 1941 When first I heard of the people who claim This old-time religion was real I says I'll go down, take a look at the crowd It's just the weak-minded, I feel But something got a hold of me Yes, something got a hold of me I went there to fight, but on that night There's something got a hold of me I walked right down, peeped in at the door And the Devil says, don't you go in I says I'll go in, for that will not hurt And sit as far back as I can But something got a hold of me Yes, something got a hold of me I went there to fight, but on that night There's something got a hold of me About that time he got up to preach And he looked right down upon me He told everybody how mean I had been Don't think he thought much of me But something got a hold of me Yes, something got a hold of me I went there to fight, but on that night There's something got a hold of me They sing and shout and they all clasp their hands And they all got down on their knees When the fire fell from heaven it fell upon me And then I fell to the floor But something got a hold of me Yes, something got a hold of me I went there to fight, but on that night There's something got a hold of me So now I've learnt and no need to doubt That the old-time religion is real I have a spirit I'll never forget That something got a hold of me But something's got a hold of me Yes, something's got a hold of me I have a spirit I'll never forget That something's got a hold of me |
Subject: Lyr Add: THE SPIRIT OF LOVE WATCHES OVER ME From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 12:23 PM Spirit of Love Watches Over Me is a 1932 gospel song by the Carters based on a song byy George Lindley circa 1840. George Linley (1798-September 10, 1865), was a verse-writer and musical composer. The son of a tradesman, he was born at Leeds in 1798, and partly educated at Eastbury's Quaker school. Linley contributed verses to the local newspapers, and published some pamphlets before leaving Leeds in early life. After a residence in Doncaster (see Modern Hudibras, p. 66 ) and Edinburgh, he finally settled in London, where he made some reputation as the writer and composer of songs and ballads. Linley wrote and composed several hundred songs between 1830 and 1865. Among his most fashionable and popular ballads, composed between 1830 and 1847,were, Thou art gone from my gaze, Song of the roving gipsey, and Constance. Here's a link to the sheet music: http://lcweb2.loc.gov/diglib/ihas/loc.natlib.ihas.100007358/enlarge.html?page=2§ion=&size=640 THE SPIRIT OF LOVE WATCHES OVER ME-Carter Family 1932 [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Thou art gone from my gaze like a beautiful dream And I seek there in vain by the meadow and stream Oft I breathe out your name to the winds floating by But the sweet voice is mute to my cry [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] In the stillness of night when the stars mightily shine My heart fondly holds a communion with thine For I feel thou art near and where e'er I may be That the spirit of love watches me [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oft the birds in the bower now companion I make Every simple wildflower I prize for the sake Deep woods and dark clouds can now pleasure impart For the solitude suits my poor heart [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Thou art gone from my gaze, yet I will not repine E'er long we shall meet in a home that is thine For I feel thou art near and where e'er I may be That the spirit of love watches me |
Subject: Lyr Add: SOW 'EM ON THE MOUNTAIN From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 12:54 PM Sow 'Em on the Mountain is a traditional spiritual recorded by the Carters in 1930. It was leter recorded by the Coon Creek Girls and Woody Guthrie as "Sowing on the Mountain." "Sow 'em is a mishearing of "Sowing" so clearly this is a song they learned from another source. According to one author "Sowing On the Mountain" is a traditional gospel song in which the biblical warning of "fire next time" takes on additional meaning in the nuclear age. In my opinion the song is based on the verse of the 1874 hymn "Bringing in the Sheaves:" Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness, Sowing in the noontide and the dewy eve. There is also a relationship in form and content to "This Train is Bound for Glory. SOW 'EM ON THE MOUNTAIN-Carter Family 1930 Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley You gonna reap just what you sow If you've been a gambler, better quit your gamblin' If you've been a gambler, better quit your gamblin' If you've been a gambler, better quit your gamblin' 'Cause you gonna reap just what you sow Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley You gonna reap just what you sow If you been a tattler, you better quit your tattling If you been a tattler, you better quit your tattling If you been a tattler, you better quit your tattling 'Cause you gonna reap just what you sow Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley You gonna reap just what you sow If you been a liar, you better you quit your lying If you been a liar, you better you quit your lying If you been a liar, you better you quit your lying 'Cause you gonna reap just what you sow Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley Sow 'em on the mountain, reap 'em in the valley You gonna reap just what you sow |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 12 Dec 08 - 01:33 PM Albert E. Brumley, the evangelist, took copyright on a large number of arrangements, including some of those also "arranged" and copyrighted by the Carters. One of these is "The Picture on the Wall;" Brumley's copyright of 1938 is handled Stamps-Baxter (or whomever controls that company now). "Two Little Orphans," and several descendants, subject of a Mudcat thread, was copyright by him and M. Lynwood Smith in 1966. Arrangements of "Home on the Range," "Listen to the Mocking Bird" and "Grandfather's Clock" were copyright in 1966 by Smith for arrangements in "Lamplightin' Songs," published by a Brumley company. "Cowboy's Dream" (Last night as I lay on the prairie) is another with a Brumley arrangement copyright. Not posted yet, but "When the roses bloom in Dixieland" resembles "When it's springtime in the Rockies." |
Subject: Lyr Add: ST REGIOUS GIRL From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 02:33 PM Hi Q, Brumley wasn't above copyrighting other people's songs, not sure how he pretended it fit his "Christian" morals. I personally have questioned his authorship of "I'll Fly Away" the chorus of which I traced to an African-American song predating his copyright. It's probably been changed enough so that the copyright is valid... still I wonder. St. Regious Girl (sic) is usally "St. Regis Girl" and it refers to an indian maiden. The Carters recorded the song in 1938. Saint Regis Maiden as I recall is basically a version of "Red River Valley." I'm sure this was a known version of the song but can't find the info on-line. I think Fowke referenced it. If anyone has more info or a link to the recording it would help. ST REGIOUS GIRL-Carter Family 1938 In a pine shaded grave by the river Where the nightingale sings sad and low All alone lies a St Regis maiden Who did sing this sad song years ago Never more will my heart fill with gladness As I stroll through the forest again For to prison they've taken my lover That's why my poor heart's full of pain When in prison your dying from sorrow I hope you'll recall those last days That together we spent in this valley And the vows that we've shared on its quay Oh if I could but burn down that prison To steal you away for awhile They could carry me off to the gallows And I'd go to my doom with a smile When the moon is high in the heaven And the mountains do gleam in its light How often I'll dream of you sweetheart As I mourn there alone in the night There will be a green grave in the forest And people when passing that way Will think of that St Regis maiden As she lies there alone in the clay A shadow has crossed o'er the valley Where once only sunshine did reign But where ever life's pathway may lead me I shall ever remember our dream In the future someday I will meet you On the bright shore so far from this world And there before God I will greet you That's the dream of the St Regis girl |
Subject: Lyr Add: STERN OLD BACHELOR From: Richie Date: 12 Dec 08 - 05:27 PM Stern Old Bachelor is a traditional song related to the 1860 song, "I'm a Jolly Bachelor." The Carters 1938 version is possibly based on Chubby Parker's versions titled "I'm A Stern Old Bachelor;" he recorded the song three times, first in 1927. Stern Old Bachelor first referenced in print in the 1887 newspaper "Dighton Republic" in Kansas. STERN OLD BACHELOR- Carter Family 1938 I am a stern old bachelor, my age is 44 I do declare I'll never live with women anymore I have a stove that's worth 10 cents, a table worth 15 I cook my gruel in oyster cans and keep my things so clean Oh, little sod shanty Little sod shanty give to me For I'm a stern old bachelor From matrimony free [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When I come home at night, I smile and walk right in I never hear a voice shout out, I say, where have you been On a cold and stormy night, in my cozy little shack I sing my songs and think my thoughts with no one to talk back Oh, little sod shanty Little sod shanty give to me For I'm a stern old bachelor From matrimony free [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I go to bed whene'er I please and get up just the same I change my socks three times a year with no one to complain At night when I'm in peaceful sleep my snores can do no harm I never have to walk the floor with a baby in my arms Oh, little sod shanty Little sod shanty give to me For I'm a stern old bachelor From matrimony free [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] And when I die and go heaven as all good bachelors do I will not have to grieve for fear my wife will get there, too Oh, little sod shanty Little sod shanty give to me For I'm a stern old bachelor From matrimony free |
Share Thread: |
Subject: | Help |
From: | |
Preview Automatic Linebreaks Make a link ("blue clicky") |