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31 Mar 04 - 08:28 AM (#1150886) Subject: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: freda underhill newry highwayman hi does anyone have any info about the historical origins of this song? i've checked the threads, but haven't been able to stumble across any known details of people/ events that may have inspired the song. can you help? freda |
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31 Mar 04 - 09:45 AM (#1150934) Subject: RE: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: GUEST,MMario There is some discussion here seems the oldest versions are printed on broadsides. |
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31 Mar 04 - 11:17 AM (#1151022) Subject: RE: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: Flash Company The version I had was:- I never robbed any poor man yet, Nor any tradesman caused I to fret But I robbed lords and their ladies bright And carried their gold home to my heart's delight. This is the usual bandit cop out! Louis Armstrong had it right:- Robin Hood he robbed the rich, but I think you ought to know, He only robbed the rich 'cos the poor folk got no dough! Well they don't teach that in school! FC |
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31 Mar 04 - 02:46 PM (#1151179) Subject: RE: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: Q (Frank Staplin) This song has so many names that it is hard to keep them straight. One of the oldest versions is called "The Jolly Blade," which appears in broadsides dated 1802-1819 by the Bodley, Oxford. The oldest printings seem to be English but the 'blade' was born in Dublin. Mention of Fielding (see thread linked by MMario) suggests an 18th c. origin. Verses in some versions have been borrowed from "Buck's Elegy" or the "Unfortunate Rake," or v. v., and there are floaters from other songs about thieves and hangings as well. It has never been tied to any specific robber or event. |
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01 Apr 04 - 08:44 AM (#1151875) Subject: RE: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: freda underhill thanks very much for this MMario, Flash and Q. I have been enquiring on behalf of Chris Wheeler (award winning songwriter in Oz) who will be pleased - this is a real help. best wishes freda |
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01 Apr 04 - 01:19 PM (#1152111) Subject: RE: Origins: Newry Highwayman From: Q (Frank Staplin) I have posted an old version, "The Jolly Blade," in thread 68402: Jolly Blade |