The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #149560 Message #3481381
Posted By: Marc Bernier
19-Feb-13 - 07:25 AM
Thread Name: 'Donkeyman' calling Shanty nerds
Subject: RE: 'Donkeyman' calling Shanty nerds
Gibb, I would venture to guess that the improvisational style of "Were you ever in XYZ" is inspired by African-American traditions. None of the 18th century versions of the song I'v heard [original to Scotland] have that form. I too would like to know when it became popular to sing it in a minor key. I only recall hearing that in the last couple decades.