The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #13562 Message #2421570
Posted By: Greg B
25-Aug-08 - 12:03 AM
Thread Name: Origins: Row On [original versions]
Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Row On
A 'way back when, it used to be a tradition following the Mystic festival, that what performers and organizers were left would gather for dinner at a restaurant called "Noah's" just up the road. Small place. Exquisite seafood. In Stonington.
After all had supped their fill, permission would be asked if we could sing, the other diners being asked if they objected.
They never did.
It must have been a couple of decades ago, but I still recall Dick Swain starting up with 'Row On..' and all joining in in the inimitable harmony that was unique to a gathering of Mystic Festival performers; four-square and perfect.
A woman was dining alone at the front of the shop; she stopped her supper.
Tears flowed down her cheeks...we clearly had not just entertained, we had tugged at some hidden heart-string. Was it a lost love? Her life? A general whats-it's?
"Ply ply the oars, and pull away. There's dawn beyond the night."