Subject: Lyr Add: IT'S A LONG, LONG ROAD TO TRAVEL ALONE From: Richie Date: 03 Dec 08 - 10:05 PM It's a Long Long Road to Travel Alone is a song attributed to Maybelle Carter. In 1931 the copyright office registered "It's a long road to travel alone" words and music by BAD [pseud of Mrs. WH Do France]. Anyone know about this song? IT'S A LONG, LONG ROAD TO TRAVEL ALONE- Carter Family 1940 I always thought I'd like to roam One day I started alone Out in this old wide wicked world Away from friends and home It's a long long road to travel alone And when the day is gone No place to pillow my head at night Only on the cold cold stone I've travelled around from town to town Now it's time that I settled down I've had my fill of rambling around And now I am homeward bound One day a letter came to me And this is what it read Come home my boy to the old homestead Your father and mother are dead It's been a long road to travel alone I wish I had never roamed I thought I'd soon see my mother and dad But now I am left alone |
Subject: Lyr Add: IT'LL AGGRAVATE YOUR SOUL From: Richie Date: 03 Dec 08 - 09:25 PM It'll Aggravate Your Soul is a song, according to the Carter's Biography, that was written entirely by A.P. Carter even tho the first verse appears to be based on other lyrics. It's one of the few songs AP sang solo and it was written during the time when he and Sara were seperated. IT'LL AGGRAVATE YOUR SOUL Carter family- 1934 Come all of you people take warning from me Don't take no girl to Tennessee For if you get married and don't agree It'll aggravate your soul We left Maces early in the night Expect to get married before daylight So many things happened to hinder our flight It aggravated my soul Arrived at The Bristol at 11 o'clock The parson was there right on the spot We found that the license had been forgot It aggravated my soul We went for the license in an automobile Run so fast couldn't see the wheel No on can explain how bad I did feel It aggravated my soul We stayed all night at The Bristol Hotel Just to make folks think we were swell Next morning they put it in the Bristol Herald It aggravated my soul And when the new style books comin' around She begins to get ready to go to town You know right then she's milliner shop bound It'll aggravate your soul She wants a new coat and a hobble skirt And you can't get in for the young un's and dirt And when she gets out, oh how she will flirt It'll aggravate your soul And when depressions gather round your head You'll think of what your dear old mother said With a pain in you back and heart and head It'll aggravate your soul Now young men take warning from me Don't take no girl to Tennessee For if you get married and don't agree It'll aggravate your soul |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 03 Dec 08 - 09:04 PM Q, Please post some or all of Lunsford's lyrics. I don't have them. Somewhere I have his book, are they in his book? Richie |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 03 Dec 08 - 11:25 AM In the Valley of the Shenandoah" shares much with "When the Roses Were in Bloom," Bascom Lamar Lunsford, recorded for the American Folklife Center in 1935. |
Subject: Lyr Add: IT IS BETTER FARTHER ON From: Richie Date: 03 Dec 08 - 11:01 AM This is the song. We saw in the last post that other verses came from other gospel songs. IT IS BETTER FARTHER ON (1877) Trad. Arranged by L. Thompson (1911) Hark! I hear Hope sweetly singing Softly in an undertone, Singing as if God had taught her, "It is better farther on." Night and day I hear her singing— Singing while I sit alone, Singing so my heart may hear it, "It is better farther on." When my faith took hold on Jesus, Light divine within me shone, And I know since that glad moment, "It is better farther on." I have plunged into the fountain, Flowing free for everyone; I am saved and Hope is singing, "It is better farther on." Farther on, but how much farther? Count the milestones one by one; No, no counting, only trusting— "It is better farther on." Rest, my soul, in hope forever, all my doubts and fears are gone; Jesus is my Savior, Keeper— "It is better farther on." |
Subject: Lyr Add: IT IS BETTER FARTHER ON From: Richie Date: 03 Dec 08 - 10:34 AM It Is Better Farther On could be be based on the popular anonymous poem "A Song of Hope" also called "Farther On." I hear it singing, sweetly singing, Softly in an undertone; Singing as if God had taught it, "It is better farther on." "It Is Better Farther On" is also a song found in The Evangelists' Songs of Praise, No. 2 By C. V. Strickland 1892 http://books.google.com/books?id=m-yRR4QMjC8C&pg=PA54&dq=%22It+Is+Better+Farther+On%22&lr=&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html Clearly there are similarities. The Carters clearly is a rewrite of an older existing song (or songs): Check out the Carters 3rd verse with this found as early as 1836: I. Say, young soldier, are you weary Of the roughness of the way? Does your heart begin to fail you, And your vigor to decay? http://books.google.com/books?id=XvB0ERB2iHIC&pg=PA16&dq=And+your+vigor+to+decay&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html It's almost exactly the Carter's third verse. IT IS BETTER FARTHER ON- Carter Family As we travel through the desert Storms beset us by the way But beyond the river Jordan Lies a field of endless day Farther on, still go farther Count the milestones one by one Jesus will forsake you never It is better farther on Oh my brother are you weary Of the roughness and the way Does your strength begin to fail you And your vigor to decay At my grave, o still be singing Though you weep for one that's gone Sing it as we once did sing it It is better farther on |
Subject: Lyr Add: IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 11:20 PM In the Valley of the Shenandoah is another song that has virually no information about any source that I could find. Without more info we can just assume it's a song by AP Carter. Anyone? Harry Fox Agency says the legal name of the song is "In the Valley of the Shenandoa," and the songwriter is A.P. Carter. Publisher is APRS, and the contact is Peermusic, www.peermusic.com. IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH- Recorded Oct 14, 1941 As I sit alone tonight in the stillness of the night I picture happy scenes of long ago Of a maiden fair and bright who is seeping there tonight In the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge It was in the month of June when the roses were in bloom When I held her in my arms and softly said "Darling, in the coming spring I'll be coming back again To the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge" [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When I left her all alone in her Shenandoah home She promised she'd be waiting there for me But the angels came along and took her from our home From the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge It was in the month of June when the roses were in bloom When I held her in my arms and softly said "Darling, in the coming spring I'll be coming back again To the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge" [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When the evening shadows fall, in memory I recall The pledge when I gave to her a ring "Darling in the coming spring I'll be coming back again To the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge" It was in the month of June when the roses were in bloom When I held her in my arms and softly said "Darling, in the coming spring I'll be coming back again To the valley of the Shenandoah Ridge" |
Subject: Lyr Add: IN A LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCHYARD From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 02 Dec 08 - 08:58 PM The song is around in several versions. From Wolf Folklore Collection (post-Carter, but?); 1st part the same, but the rest is different. The "weeping willow" is absent. IN A LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCHYARD (My Mother's Grave) In a little village churchyard, There I see a grassy mound. There my mother lies a-sleeping In the cold and silent ground. She was sweet and kind and tender, But oh, those tears I cannot drive away. Oh, I never can forget her, For I think of her each day. Bright the flowers bloom around her, When the warblers sing their song. Still I sit so sad and lonely Since my mother's dead and gone. I was young, but I remember That sad day my mother died. And I set there softly weeping When she called me to her side. Then she told me she was going To where the angels sit upon the throne, And I know we'll meet in Heaven When life's troubled race is done. Mrs. Alice Isringhouse, Holly Grove, AK, 1959. http://www.lyon.edu/wolfcollection/songs/isringhousein1244.html Just noted that they had "Baptist Monophonic and Heterophonic Hymnody in Southern Appalachia," an article readable through JSTOR which mentions the song. Is that legal? This is in reference to "Primitive Baptist Hymn Book and Tune Book," 1918, compiled by John Daily ($20-$25 at Abebooks). The article by William Talmadge is in "Anuario Interamericano de Investigacion Musical" vol. 11, 1975. From "The Kentucky," Clark and Spelman: "In all American music, there is no more downright melancholy than is to be found in the wailing chant of "The Village Churchyard." The ballad recites a long grief-stricken tale of a lone orphan child wringing its pale hands beside a mother's grave. The child moans: In that dear old village churchyard, I can see a grassy mound; That is where my mother's sleeping, In the cold and silent ground." I can't tell if the authors are quoting from an old song or a 1930s cluster. |
Subject: Lyr Add: IN THE SHADOW OF CLINCH MOUNTAIN From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 08:38 PM In the Shadow of Clinch Mountain was recorded in NYC in 1937. According to the Carters biography Sara sang the song to Jeanette, whether it's Sara's song or A.P.'s song and if it's based on another song I don't know. It seems like it could be a Carter original. Anyone? IN THE SHADOW OF CLINCH MOUNTAIN- Carter Family Oh, I grew up on the side of Clinch Mountain 'Mid the beauty and the wonders of the woods Where sweet songs from the bright, sunny fountain And the warbles of the birds I understood Then I asked how this green, lofty mountain In the cavern of the lonely desert stood Said the songs of the bright, sunny fountain We are given by the waters of His love When I've sung my last song in the evening And the sun sets in the golden west All the scenes of this world I'll be leaving In the shadow of Clinch Mountain I will rest [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Through the gates I have passed now from childhood O'er the railways to the valley of the west Singing songs of the Clinch Mountain wildwood Songs neighbors sang and birds still sang the best When I've sung my last song in the evening And the sun sets in the golden west All the scenes of this world I'll be leaving In the shadow of Clinch Mountain I will rest [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Long ago stood the oaks and the cedars Singing sweetly in a whisper of the past Stand they not now, those great towering leaders Nor the fountain where their crystal gleams are cast When I've sung my last song in the evening And the sun sets in the golden west All the scenes of this world I'll be leaving In the shadow of Clinch Mountain I will rest |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 07:25 PM Apparently the song is "In That Dear Old Village Churchyard" from Primitive Baptist Hymn Book and Tune Book (1918) compiled by Elder John Daily. Anyone have access to that? |
Subject: Lyr Add: VILLAGE CHURCHYARD From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 06:50 PM Here's a version by Roscoe Holcomb from the DT: VILLAGE CHURCHYARD From Roscoe Holcomb's "The High Lonesome Sound". It states that the hymn is from "The Old Baptist Songbook" In a dear old village churchyard I can see a mossy mound That is where my mother's sleeping In the cold and silent ground There in a weeping willow Sweet little bird to sing at dawn It's I've no one left to love me Since my mother's dead and gone I was young but I remember Well the night my mother died There I saw her spirit fading When she called me to her side Saying darling I must leave you And God's voice to lead you on Pray that we may meet in heaven Where your mother's dead and gone Oft I've wandered to the churchyard Flowers to plant with tender care On the grave of my dear mother Darkness finds me weeping there Looking at the stars above me Waiting for the early dawn There by mother I'll be buried And no more be left alone |
Subject: Lyr Add: IN A LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCHYARD From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 06:11 PM Thanks Q, In a Little Village Churchyard was recorded in 1936 by the Carters. Meade seperates the Carters song from a song with same title we can call "In a Little Village Churchyard- II" which is known as "Mother's Grave." It's from "Since My mother's Dead And Gone" by Phil Mowrey, Harry Percy. The other song is also known as "Old Village Churchyard" and "Since My Mother's Dead and Gone." The song was rewritten by Carson Robison in 1926. Lomax collected it as "In this Old Gray Village Churchyard" The Carters song is about a lover that's died, the other song is about a mother that's died. The Carters song is based on another song-what is it? I'd like to see other versions if anyone has them. IN A LITTLE VILLAGE CHURCHYARD Carter Family Original In a little village churchyard There I see a grassy mound There my sweetheart lies a-sleeping In the cold and silent ground Gently waves the weeping willow Birds, they warble sweet and low And there's no one left to love me Since my sweetheart had to go In that little village churchyard There I stray with a broken heart There is no one left to love me Since the day we had to part [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] That sad day will I remember When she called me to her side How I watched her spirit fading And the tears did blind my sight Then she said, goodbye, my darling Dry those teardrops from your eyes Promise me, my little darling That you'll meet me up on high In that little village churchyard There I stray with a broken heart There is no one left to love me Since the day we had to part [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oft I've wandered to the graveyard Flowers to plant with tender care O'er the grave of my dear darling Darkness finds me weeping there |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 02 Dec 08 - 01:11 PM "Lonesome Seems the Winter" collected also in Alabama: No. 3, pp. 47-48 with musical score. Coll. in 1952, but the singer "thinks she has been singing it for some forty years." Changes in some verses. Ray B. Browne, 1979, "The Alabama Folk Lyric: A study ...," Bowling Green Univ. Press. |
Subject: Lyr Add: THE LONELY SCENES OF WINTER (Belden) From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 02 Dec 08 - 12:59 PM Lyr. Add: THE LONELY SCENES OF WINTER Sung by Tom Waters, 1904 1 Lonesome seems the winter The chilling frost and snow; Dark clouds around me hover; The wind has ceased to blow. 2 I went the other evening My true love for to see. I asked her if she would marry me; She would not answer me. 3 The little birds sing sweetly Among every bush and vine. My joys would be doubled If only you were mine. 4 The chickens are a-crowing, It's almost break of day. I'm waiting for an answer; Kind love, what will you say? 5 'If it is you that I must answer, I choose a single life; For I never thought it suited For me to be your wife. 6 'So take this for an answer, And for yourself provide. For I have found a new sweetheart And you are cast aside.' 7 About six weeks or more, The lady's mind did change; She wrote to me a letter, Saying, 'Kind sir, I feel ashamed. 8 'I feel that I've forsaken you; I cannot bear in mind. So here's my heart, come take it And claim it as your own.' 9 I wrote her back an answer, I sent it off in speed; 'I loved you once, my darling, I loved you once, indeed; 10 'But since you proved false-hearted I've learned to love again. I've found a new sweetheart And you may do the same.' Belden notes that the song has been found in Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and Minnesota as well as in Missouri. The version above: "No title, Taken down in 1904 by W. S. Johnson from the singing of Tom Waters, fiddler, in Tuscumbia, Miller County [MO]." "A Newfoundland song, "Proud Nancy (FSN 47-51), has a like theme but little verbal resemblance." [Not in Peacock] |
Subject: Lyr Add: IF ONE WON'T ANOTHER ONE WILL From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 11:36 AM If One Won't Another One Will is known as "Lonesome (Stormy) Scenes of Winter, The" [Laws H12]. The song was collected by Belden in 1904. It's referenced to October, 1887 by Meade and appeares in Wehman's Collection of Songs. If anyone has either the Belden or Wehman lyrics please post them. Here is a list of collections: Belden, pp. 195-196, "The Lonesome Scenes of Winter" (1 text) MHenry-Appalachians, pp. 136-137, "The Lonesome Scenes of Winter (All in the Scenes of Winter" (1 text) Wyman-Brockway II, p. 94, "The Gonesome [sic] Scenes of Winter" (1 text, 1 tune) Dean, pp. 108-109, "Lonesome Hours of Winter" (1 text) Fowke/Johnston, pp. 156-157, "The Stormy Scenes of Winter" (1 text, 1 tune) Fowke/MacMillan 57, "The Lonesome (Stormy) Scenes of Winter" (1 text, 1 tune) McNeil-SFB1, pp. 127-129, "Lonesome Scenes of Winter" (1 text, 1 tune) Shellans, pp. 38-39, "The Scornful Lover" (1 text, 1 tune) Creighton/Senior, pp. 209-212,"Stormy Winds of Winter" (4 texts, 1 tune) Creighton-SNewBrunswick 50, "The Stormy Winds of Winter" (2 texts, 2 tunes) Peacock, pp. 445-446, "Flora" (1 text, 1 tune) Some recordings: Lewis McDaniel & Walter Smith: "I Went to See My Sweetheart" (Victor 23505, 1930; on ConstSor1) Southern Melody Boys, "Lonesome Scenes of Winter" (Montgomery Ward 7227, 1937) IF ONE WON'T ANOTHER ONE WILL- Carter Family 1932 I went one Sunday evening My true love for to see I asked her to marry And she would not answer me [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] The night is almost spent It is nearer the break of day I'm waiting for an answer Oh, what will you say [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Kind sir, if I must tell you I'd choose the single life I never thought it suited For me to be your wife [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] In the course of six weeks later This lady's mind did change She wrote me a letter Kind sir, I feel ashamed [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I feel as though I slighted you I cannot hear you mourn So here is my heart, come take it And claim it as your own [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I wrote her back an answer And sent it back in speed I own that once I did love you I loved you dear indeed [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] But then my mind has changed me I seek another way Upon some pretty fair maiden My heart will have its sway [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Upon some pretty fair maiden My heart shall have its fill This world is wide and lonely If one won't another one will |
Subject: Lyr Add: I'M WORKING ON A BUILDING From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 10:37 AM "I'm Working on a Building" came from black gospel sources. The Carters learned their version from gospel singer Pauline Gary from Kingsport who was a friend of Leslie Riddle. The Carters also learned "On a Hill Lone and Gray," and "On My Way To Cannan's Land" from her. Here's the earliest printed lyrics: "WORKIN' ON THE BUILDING" recorded in Odum & Johnson, The Negro and His Songs (1925, p. 72). If I wus a sinner man, I tell you what I'd do, I'd lay down all my sinful ways an' work on the building too. I'm workin' on the building fer my Lord, Fer my Lord, fer my Lord, I'm workin' on the building fer my Lord, I'm workin' on the building, too. If I wus a gamblin' man, I tell you what to do, I'd lay down all my gamblin', an' work on the building, too. If I was a 'ho'-munger, I tell you what to do, I'd lay down all my munglin' and work on the building, too. I'M WORKING ON A BUILDING- Carter Family I'm working on a building I'm working on a building I'm working on a building For my lord, for my lord It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building For my lord, for my lord If I was a liar I tell you what I would do I would quit my lying And work on the building too I'm working on a building I'm working on a building I'm working on a building For my lord, for my lord It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building For my lord, for my lord [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] If I was a drunkard I'll tell you what I would do, I would quit my drinking And work on the building too I'm working on a building I'm working on a building I'm working on a building For my lord, for my lord It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building For my lord, for my lord [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] If I was a preacher Tell you what I would do, I would keep on preaching And work on the building too I'm working on a building I'm working on a building I'm working on a building For my lord, for my lord It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building It's a holy ghost building For my lord, for my lord |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 02 Dec 08 - 08:38 AM Thanks Q and Guest JFO, There's several sections in the Carters biography "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone" that detail A.P.'s song collecting and arranging. There is also information about specific songs. The book doesn't dfetail info about the songs as we have done here. Since there are muliple versions of many of the Carters songs by different recording artists of the 1920s and 30s legally performing and recording the Carters songs isn't a problem and long as you don't take their exact version (arrangement). You can use their arrangement if it's closely alligned to earlier arrangements (this is especially true if the lyrics are teh same as sheet music from say the 1880s). Some of their songs where their arrangements are unique or no earlier versions can be found should not be used without giving them credit. The issue is: they don't own the songs just their arrangements and only when the arrangements are unique. Richie |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: GUEST,JFO Date: 01 Dec 08 - 09:59 PM I am a musician and folklorist with a strong interest in song origins and the history of how the copyright process has been abused when it comes to "folk" music. The Carter Family collection of songs is a great case study. And this is a great thread. (I also recommend the book "Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone" which provides some general info on A.P. approach to song catching. To my knowledge, the only song that A.P. Carter may actually have written from scratch is Little Darling Pal of Mine – and that is disputed by some, and there are similar songs. (But let's be honest, you can't write a "new" folk song that isn't similar to some old ones.) However, the work A.P. did on many of the songs in changing the melody, form, and lyrics, along with the distinctive arrangements that the CF recorded, unquestionably qualify them as copyright holders under current copyright law. (Whether that law is fair or well-defined enough is another discussion!) Versions of many of these songs that we musicians have heard are almost undoubtedly descended from the Carter Family recordings and we would be hard pressed to record our derivative versions and claim we should not be required to pay royalties because we read that there were versions extant prior to the Carter Family recordings. On the other hand, many of the Carter Family tunes were merely assimilated by the trio and the estate hold the copyrights only because there was no one to object at the time. (Prior to the mass marketing of phonograph recordings of folk and country music and the corresponding royalties, holding such copyrights wouldn't have been worth the effort necessary to secure them.) Sometimes the copyright/public domain decision can be amazingly trivial. (If you sing "Can the circle be unbroken" it's PD, but if you sing "Will the circle" it's not?) And the copyright holders have all the clout – they have the lawyers and legal apparatus to make life miserable for any recording artist/producer/record label/disc presser/etc. Their goal – and they are successful – is to make it easier to pay the royalties than to risk a legal battle. I have dealt with this issue in performing in restaurants that have no ASCAP/BMI/Sesac license and therefore are restricted to traditional, public domain, and original material. Trust me, the ASCAP and BMI agents don't care, if they here a song that has the same title as one in their catalog (and most folk songs have published/licensed arrangements) they will try to intimidate the restaurant owner by threatening a legal action if they don't purchase a license. (Try telling a business owner that you'll play a weekly gig for $150 a week but the three music licenses he needs might cost him twice that!) I recently recorded a CD of songs that were popular in the year 1964 in Greenwich Village during the folk revival (I refuse to call it a "scare") and I could tell you a story about almost every song. Let me share just a few: House of the Risin' Sun – Obviously PD, right? Not if you use the notes in the organ run the Animals used for their recording. And there are several other arrangements that are copyrighted as well. So take your pick. Yet the song is traditional and my version qualified as PD. Statesboro Blues – Attributed to Willie McTell (although he may have picked it up from someone else) and there is a copyright in his name. But wait, the version I perform is most like one I heard Taj Mahal do back in the 60's and he holds a copyright on that arrangement. Black Eye Blues – An old MA Rainey and Tampa Red song from 1920. So its PD, right? Well, the version I sing is one I heard Judy Henske do in 1964. To get a new copyright (and maybe to make the song acceptable for television) her producer changed the title to "Low Down Alligator" and changed one line in the lyrics form "catch you with your britches down" to "catch you with your socks rolled down." I chose to use Ma Rainey's original (?) version and lyrics. Don't Think Twice, It's Alright – Easy, a Dylan tune, right? Well, sort of. Dylan actually stole the tune from his pal Paul Clayton who performed a song called "Who's gonna buy your chickens when I'm gone" while on an Appalachian song catching field trip. Paul changed the words to "Who's gonna buy your ribbons when I'm gone" to give it a more city-like feel. Dylan came up with new words and Witmark (the publisher) didn't even give Paul co-billing. Paul was ticked, so to make it up to him Dylan took him on his concert tour that year. For Clayton it might have been a case of bad karma, for he had stolen a song a few years before (Gotta' Travel On) that he had no role in writing and made quite a bit off the royalties after several artists recorded it. Making the whole copyright thing even more complicated is that some songs that were copyrighted weren't renewed in a timely fashion and therefore are technically PD. (But unless you're planning to press at least 10,000 CD's the effort to establish this fact about any given song will be more costly than the royalties. My advice? If you perform a song version that is derived from a song and arrangement that was printed and/or published in 1922 or before, list it as public domain. Otherwise go to the Harry Fox web site and "pay the man." |
Subject: Lyr Add: BROKEN-HEARTED LOVERS From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 01 Dec 08 - 08:44 PM "I'm Thinking tonight of my blue eyes"- The Frank C. Brown Collection of North Carolina Folklore, vol. 2, Folk Ballads, has three examples of "Broken Ties," No. 156, coll. c. 1915, c. 1923, and 1930; the earliest titled "The Broken Engagement." Only the 1930 version mentions 'Blue Eyes," and probably was taken in part from the Carter song. All have the first verse with 'wide, wicked world'. Vol. 3 for some reason does not have the melodies. The chorus "When the cold, cold clay is laid upon me," in the first example in Brown, is the title of an old song sung by Sloane and Threadgill on Brunswick 100 Series, 299, DAL 695, recorded about Oct. 1928. The record appeared in a Brunswick add in the Charleston Gazette, May 12, 1929. The Carters changed this to "When the cold, cold grave shall enclose me." An interesting version from Montana, called a campfire song. BROKEN-HEARTED LOVERS Once you said that you always would love me, And that no one could e'er come between, Though it's long, long ago since you told me Yet these words in my memory are green. 'T would have been better for us both had we never In this wide wicked world had never met; But the pleasures we've both had together, I am sure we can never forget. How sadly my heart yearns towards you Although distance has thrown us apart; Do you love me as well as when you held me Long ago, folded close to your heart. Now farewell, all my hopes have departed, I will struggle through life until death; But alas! you have left me broken-hearted, And your vows shall implore my last breath. When my cold, cold grave has surrounded, Won't you come, love, and shed just one tear; Will you say to the strangers around you, That a heart you have broken lies here. Wish I had a better link. I have seen this version elsewhere, but the title escapes me. http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=64415831&blogID=2904574 |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 01 Dec 08 - 06:51 PM I'm Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes is one of the Carters well known songs, the melody has been used for many other songs. From the notes by the well known scholar, Charles K. Wolfe: "I'm Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes" is another Carter song that became a standard, echoing down through the years in country music. One historian has called it "the best known melody in country music," and it has been used for everything from Roy Acuff's "Great Speckled Bird" to Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky-Tonk Angels." Sara and Maybelle both recalled that they had known the song all their lives, certainly it shows up in dozens of folksong collections, and prior to the Carter version had been recorded by Welby Toomey (a Kentucky singer), Earl Johnson (a Georgia fiddler), the Stoneman Family (from the Galax, Virginia, area), and others -- though none of them actually used A.P.'s title." "Thrills I Can't Forget" "Blue Eyes" and "In the Shadow of the Pines" are some other titles. It's been collected as "Broken Ties." Another song with the same melody is "Great Speckled Bird." Teh song was recorded by The Carter Family on February 14, 1929 also again for Bluebird in 1941. I'm Thinking Tonight Of My Blue Eyes Would been better for us both had we never In this wide and wicked world had never met For the pleasure we both seen together I am sure, Love, I'll never forget Chorus: Oh, I'm thinking tonight, of my blue eyes Who is sailing far over the sea Oh, I'm thinking tonight, of my blue eyes And I wonder if he ever thinks of me Oh, you told me once, Dear, that you loved me You said that we never would part But a link in the chain has been broken Leaves me with a sad and aching heart Chorus When the cold, cold grave shall enclose me Will you come, Dear, and shed just one tear And say to the strangers around you A poor heart you have broken lies here. Chorus |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 01 Dec 08 - 05:34 PM I'll Never Forsake You was recorded by teh Carters in 1940 for Okeh. Need some help on the source: Anyone? I'll Never Forsake You- Carter Family I am so happy that you love no other but me All of my life I've tried to win your love you see And I still wonder if you will be happy with me When we are married and I've taken you my wife to be I have waited so long for the words you just said I always thought that you loved another instead But you have told me with your own sweet lips so red And I am waiting for the day when we shall wed If you should ever forsake me my love I would pray Take me to my maker up in heaven where white angels stay Cause I could never go on living without you this way If we have to part I'd rather you take me today No, no I'll never forsake you I'll always be true And we'll be happy together because I love you And when I think of us parting sweetheart it runs through my head If we can't be happy together my love I would rather be dead |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 01 Dec 08 - 04:38 PM "I Wouldn't Mind Dying" is a composite or goulash of several gospel-spiritual songs," and floaters. "Soon and Very Soon" aka "We're Going to See the King" is a well-known song, A. Crouch's recording probably the best-known. Lyrics and chords at http://gospelmusic.org.uk/s-u/soon and very soon.htm "Wouldn't Mind Dying" is a gospel song sung by Blind Mamie Forehand, Washington Phillips and others. c. 1927 or earlier. "(Holy, Holy,) Holy Is His Name" is gospel, performed by Talbot and others. Claimed by him, but earlier. "Ezekiel Saw the Wheel" is an old spiritual, several versions. |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 01 Dec 08 - 01:41 PM "I'll Be All Smiles Tonight" is widely known. Examples from Australia, and a song sheet in England (before 1883) at the Bodleian are noted in thread 5951. The original sheet music may be lost, as so much of the old sheet music has been. I'll Be All Smiles |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 01 Dec 08 - 09:48 AM I'll Be Home Someday is a gospel song from the Carters 1934 session in Camden NJ; I haven't found any info about this song. Anyone? I'LL BE HOME SOMEDAY- Carter Family I was standing by the bedside of a neighbor Who was just about to cross the swelling tide I asked if he would do me a favor Just take a message to the other side [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] If you see my Savior, tell him that you saw me When you saw me I was on my way You may meet some old friends who may ask about me Just tell them I'll be home someday [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Now you have to take this journey on without me It's a debt that sooner or later must be paid If you see my Savior, don't forget to tell him Don't forget to tell him what I say [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] You may chance to see my father or my mother Or some friends who have gone before You may chance to see my sister or my brother But try and see my Savior first of all |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 01 Dec 08 - 08:47 AM I'll Be All Smiles Tonight is a song written by T.B. Ranson in 1879. Here's a link to the song with notes and TAB: http://gulfweb.net:34043/~rlwalker/jamnfolk/book001/I'll%20Be%20All%20Smiles%20Tonight-G.pdf It was recorded by Luther B. Clark and the Blue Ridge Highballers (1926); Mac and Bob (1927); Allen Brothers (1928); Reed Children (1928); Jenkins and Whitworth (1929); Bradley Kincaid (1929); Linda Parker and The Cumberland Ridge Runners (1933); and the Carter Family (1934). I'LL BE ALL SMILES TONIGHT- Carter Family I'll deck my brow with roses The loved ones may be there And gems that others give me Will shine within my hair And even those who know me Will think my heart is light Though my heart may break tomorrow I'll be all smiles tonight I'll be all smiles tonight, love I'll be all smiles tonight Though my heart may break tomorrow I'll be all smiles tonight [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, when the dance commences Oh, how I will rejoice I'll sing the song you taught me Without a falling voice When the flattering ones come around me They'll think my heart is light Though my heart may break tomorrow I'll be all smiles tonight I'll be all smiles tonight, love I'll be all smiles tonight Though my heart may break tomorrow I'll be all smiles tonight [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] And when the room he enters With a bride upon his arm I stood and gazed upon him As though he was a charm And onced he smiled upon her And onced he smiled on me They know not what I suffered They found no change in me I'll be all smiles tonight, love I'll be all smiles tonight Though my heart may break tomorrow I'll be all smiles tonight |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 30 Nov 08 - 10:24 PM "I Never Will Marry" was covered earlier on this thread although more info about the origin is needed. "I Wouldn't Mind Dying" comes from African-American gospel sources. "I Wouldn't Mind Dying" was recorded by Rev. I.B. Ware in 1928; Golden Leaf Quartette from Jefferson County Alabama in 1928. It's also titled "By and By We're Going To See The King" by the blind pianist Juanita Arizona Dranes in 1925 and later by Blind Willie Johnson. I anyone has other lyrics for this song please post them. I WOULDN'T MIND DYING- Carter Family By and by we're going to see the King By and by we're going to see the King By and by we're going to see the King Well, I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all Wouldn't mind dying, got to go by myself Wouldn't mind dying, got to go by myself Wouldn't mind dying, got to go by myself Well, I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all After death we're going to stand the test After death we're going to stand the test After death we're going to stand the test Well, I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy is His Name Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy is His Name Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy is His Name And I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all Wouldn't mind dying, got to stay dead so long Wouldn't mind dying, got to stay dead so long Wouldn't mind dying, got to stay dead so long And I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all Ezekiel saw the wheel, a wheel within a wheel Ezekiel saw the wheel, a wheel within a wheel Ezekiel saw the wheel, a wheel within a wheel Well, I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all By and by we're going to see the King By and by we're going to see the King By and by we're going to see the King Well, I wouldn't mind dying if dying was all |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 30 Nov 08 - 09:48 PM I Never Loved But One is "Those Dark Eyes" by Armand in 1865. It's been recorded as "Dark Eyes" and probably was titled differently by the Carters in 1932 to avoid copyright issues. Her's the sheet music: http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?dukesm:1:./temp/~ammem_0URU::@@@mdb=mcc,gottscho,detr,nfor,wpa,aap,cwar,bbpix,cowellbib,ca I NEVER LOVED BUT ONE- Carter family Onward to the eastern skies, With mooing efforts kissed the sea I sigh and think of those blue eyes That have hope and love for me For they, o they have stole away The heart that truly once was mine Like some lone bird without a mate My weary heart is desolate I look around but cannot trace One welcome word or smiling face In gazing crowds I am alone, Because I never loved but one [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Come up closer to me now, Your chestnut hair is touched with snow But still it is the same dear face, I loved so well long years ago The same as on that winter night, You bent to me and kissed my brow Happy hours of trusting love, Oh well, they're all over now And I must sail the whitening foam, Till I can see a foreign home Till I forget that fair sweet face, I ne'er can find a resting place I look around but cannot trace One welcome word or smiling face In gazing crowds I am alone Because I never loved but one |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 30 Nov 08 - 09:26 PM I Loved You Better Than You Knew is a song by Johnny Carroll in 1893 and the first recording was just three years later by Goerge Gaskin on Ber 925. In 1895 "I Love You Yet" was written as "An Answer to Johnnie Carroll's Beautiful & Popular Song I Loved You Better Than You Knew." Here's the Carters 1930 version: I LOVED YOU BETTER THAN YOU KNEW- Carter Family Our hands are clasped, alas, forever Perhaps we'll never meet again I love you like I love no other This parting fills my heart with pain As through this weary world I wander My thoughts alone will be of you In memory will I see you ever I loved you better than you knew [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] You ask and freely I'll forgive you The happy past I must forget And while I wander alone in silence I hope that you'll be happy yet As through this weary world I wander My thoughts alone will be of you In memory will I see you ever I loved you better than you knew [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Perhaps when I am gone forever You'll sometimes sit and think of me And wonder if I'm dead or living Perhaps I'll think the same of you As through this weary world I wander My thoughts alone will be of you In memory will I see you ever I loved you better than you knew |
Subject: Lyr Add: I HAVE NO ONE TO LOVE ME (Carter Family) From: Richie Date: 30 Nov 08 - 08:40 PM I Have No One to Love Me (But the Sailor on the Deep Blue Sea) is th British Ballad "Sweet William" also know as Captain Tell me TRue and first recorded in 1924 by Gid Tanner as "Sailor Boy." The ballad index gives the earliest date as before 1839 (broadside, Bodleian Harding B 11(2298)). The plot is as follows: A girl asks her father to build her a boat so that she may search for her lover. She describes the boy to a passing captain, who tells her he is drowned. She gives directions for her burial, then dies of grief or dashes her boat against the rocks. Other names include: "The Pinery Boy" "The Sailor's Sweetheart" "My Boy Willie" "Papa, Build Me a Boat" The Carters recorded their version in 1928: I HAVE NO ONE TO LOVE ME (BUT THE SAILOR ON THE DEEP BLUE SEA) Carter Family 1928 It was on last Sunday evening Just about the hour of three When my darling started to leave me To sail on the deep blue sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] He promised to write a letter He promised to write to me And I haven't heard from my darling Who sails on the deep blue sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] My mother is dead and buried My papa's forsaken me And I have no one to love me But the sailor on the deep blue sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, Captain, can you tell me Can you tell me where he may be Oh, yes, my little maiden He's drownded in the deep blue sea [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Farewell to friends and relations It's the last you'll see of me I'm going to end my troubles By drowning in the deep blue sea |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 30 Nov 08 - 08:25 PM I Have an Aged Mother is also known "Ten Thousand Miles Away" as well as "On The Banks of A Lonely River." Here's a link to the 1882 Broadside sheet music "composed by I.M. Williams" at American Memory: http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=mussm&fileName=sm/sm1882/16100/16161/mussm16161.db&recNum=1&itemLink=D?mussm:4:./tem "On The Banks of A Lonely River" was a big hit for Tarton and Darby on Columbia in 1930 possibly prompting the Carters to record the song for Victor later that year. Record sales that year plummeted because of the Great Depression. I HAVE AN AGED MOTHER- Carter Family [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Last night while I lay sleeping Last night while in a dream I saw my dear old mother Down by a rippling stream Don't ask me why I'm weeping Don't ask me why I pray For I've an aged mother 10,000 miles away [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] A letter here from sister dear Come home, we're all alone Dear mother's slowly fading She can't be with us long Don't ask me why I'm weeping Don't ask me why I pray I've a dear old mother dying 10,000 miles away Well, ah-le-ho, le-ho-lay Well, ah-le-ho, le-ho-lay Out in the cold world A long ways from home I'm drawing near the old home Dear sister's at the gate She's leading me through the doorway Oh, brother, you've come too late Oh, lead me to the casket Throw back the linen so fine That I may kiss her pale white lips For I know they'll never kiss mine I see the pale moon shining On mother's white tombstone The rosebuds 'round them twining Are just like me—alone Well, ah-le-ho, le-ho-lay Well, ah-le-ho, le-ho-lay Out in the cold world Left all alone |
Subject: Lyr Add: I FOUND YOU AMONG THE ROSES From: Richie Date: 29 Nov 08 - 01:24 AM I Found You Among the Roses is by George Pitman in 1913. The Carters recorded their version in 1940. Here's the sheet Music at the Levy Collection (for some reason the links at Levy aren't working): http://levysheetmusic.mse.jhu.edu/levy-cgi/display.cgi?id=152.105.000;pages=5;range=0-4 I FOUND YOU AMONG THE ROSES-Carter family Once again dear it's rose time it's June time All the flowers they bloom as of yore And the robin's sweet song is singing As I walked here to greet you once more A year has passed dear since we came here This old love of ours to renew And I found you among the roses The day I come back to you CHORUS: I found you among the roses The day I come back to you All my gladness was there in a garden so fair Was the happiest moment I knew Your lips were the color of roses I craved them as flowers crave the dew It was out here in your rose garden Where I found you I remember the kiss that you gave me For your cheeks like the rosebuds red Was a kiss dear that meant to fore me For all the harsh words I have said Red roses a blooming around me I loved every one of them too For it was there dear in your rose garden Where I found you |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 29 Nov 08 - 01:09 AM I Cannot Be Your Sweetheart, also known as "Under the Pale Moonlight," is a song written in 1899 by Abbie Ford, who wrote mainly ragtime style music. The song has entered tradition and has been found in several folk song collections. I CANNOT BE YOUR SWEETHEART Carter Family 1934 Last night I told my heart's love All under the pale blue sky Eagerly waiting an answer I plainly could see in her eye I love you, sweetheart, I love you And ask you to be my bride Her face turned pale and she trembled And sadly to me replied I cannot be your sweetheart I cannot stay by your side There's one who's waiting off yonder Who's claiming me his bride My heart is almost broken Your vows only add to my pain I love you, sweetheart, I love you Though we may never meet again We said goodbye in the moonlight My heart was turned to a stone One peaceful hour I was made happy But now I am sad and lone Amidst my sorrows forever Though she may go far away Wherever she goes I'll love her And still I can hear her say I cannot be your sweetheart I cannot stay by your side There's one who's waiting off yonder Who's claiming me his bride My heart is almost broken Your vows only add to my pain I love you, sweetheart, I love you Though we may never meet again |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 28 Nov 08 - 06:18 PM "Honey in the Rock" is regarded by many as an African-American spiritual; most Black singers follow the style of Mamie Forehand, who sang it in 1927, but adding the word "Sweet" to the title. The song is included in the Ruby Pickins Tartt Collection of Religious Folk Songs from Sumter Co., AL, edited by Olivia and Jack Solomon ("Honey in the Rock," Mercer Univ. Press). The verses are not the same as those of Carter or Graves; but they have the word 'brother' in common. The song does not seem to have been in the African-American Tradition before Mamie Forehand. |
Subject: Lyr Add: I AIN'T GOIN' TO WORK TOMORROW (Carter) From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 05:16 PM I Ain't Goin' to Work Tomorrow is a traditional folk song arranged by the Carter Family and is on one of their earlier recordings in 1928. The lyrics show up in collected versions of Darlin' Corey. It seems the Carters collected the lyrics and arranged the song. It was in the repertoire of Kentucky musician Lily May Ledford. I AIN'T GOIN' TO WORK TOMORROW Carter Family I'm a-going to leave this country I'm a-going around this world I'm a-going to leave this country For the sake of one little girl Well, she told me that she loved me And it give my poor heart grief And she's got her back turned on me She's courting whoever she please
[INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 28 Nov 08 - 01:54 PM "My Little Home in Tennessee," a song collected in Alabama, 1952, has very different lyrics from the Carter song (haven't compared music) - "The Alabama Folk Lyric," R. B. Browne, no. 106, pp. 276-277. Seems to be independent. There were several songs about a Tennessee home published between 1854-1915 that could have been starting points for the Robson-Carter song, but melodies would have to be checked. American Memory |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 01:36 PM Honey in the Rock is a gospel song written by Frederick A. Graves in 1895. The Carters recorded their version in 1937. Honey In The Rock- Carter family Oh my brother, do you know the Savior Who is wondrous kind and true? He's the Rock of your salvation There is honey in the Rock for you Oh, honey in the Rock (oh, honey in the Rock) Sweet honey in the Rock (sweet honey in the Rock) Oh it tastes just like honey in the Rock Oh taste and see if the Lord is good Oh it tastes just like honey in the Rock Have you tasted that the Lord is gracious? Do you walk in the way that's new? have you drank from the living fountain? There is honey in the Rock for you Oh, there's honey in the Rock my brother There is honey in the Rock for you Leave your sins for the Blood to cover There is honey in the Rock for you HONEY IN THE ROCK- Graves lyrics O my brother, do you know the Savior, Who is wondrous, kind, and true? He's the Rock of your salvation! There's honey in the Rock for you. Refrain: Oh, there's honey in the Rock, my brother; There's honey in the Rock for you. Leave your sins for the Blood to cover; There's honey in the Rock for you. Have you tasted that the Lord is gracious? Do you walk in the way that's new? Have you drunk from the living fountain? There's honey in the Rock for you. Do you pray unto God the Father, "What wilt Thou have me to do?" Never fear, He will surely answer, There's honey in the Rock for you. Then go out through the streets and byways, Preach the Word to the many or few; Say to every fallen brother, There's honey in the Rock for you. |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 01:21 PM Homestead on the Farm was recorded twice by the Carter Family; first for Victor in 1929 then for ARC in 1935. The song is based on "I Wonder How The Old Folks Are At Home" by by Lambert and Vandersloot in 1909. Will Oakland recorded the song for Edison in 1910. http://scriptorium.lib.duke.edu/sheetmusic/a/a02/a0276/ THE HOMESTEAD ON THE FARM Carter Family Well, I wonder how the old folks are at home Well, I wonder if they miss me when I'm gone I wonder if they pray For the boy who went away And left his dear old parents all alone You could hear the cattle lowing in the lane You could almost see the fields of bluegrass green You could almost hear them cry As they kissed their boy goodbye I wonder how the old folks are at home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK TO TUNE OF HOME, SWEET HOME] Just a village and a homestead on the farm And a mother's love to shield him from all harm A mother's love so true And a sweetheart brave and true A village and a homestead on the farm You could hear the cattle lowing in the lane You could almost see the fields of bluegrass green You could almost hear them cry As they kissed their boy goodbye I wonder how the old folks are at home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK TO TUNE OF HOME, SWEET HOME] [REPEAT CHORUS] |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 12:55 PM Home in Tennessee was actually titled "My Little Home in Tennessee" and recorded by the Carters in 1932. Apparently it was not issued for Victor at that time and was released later on RCA CNV102. Although the song entered tradition or at least the title has, this was a song by Maggie Andrews (an alias for Carson Robison) and because it was copyrighted by Columbia, the song was not released. The song was recorded by Al Craver (actually Vernon Dalhart) for Columbia in 1925. Later when the song was released the name was changed slightly. HOME IN TENNESSEE Carter Family 1932 Oh, yes, I'm going back To my home in Tennessee Back to the girl that's waiting In the cotton fields to see There's a mother and a dad That's waiting patiently And the place I'm longing for tonight Is my home in Tennessee [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I've sailed the skies in airplanes To a place called Bunker Hill I've dropped from the clouds in a parachute And, oh, boys, what a thrill I've saw shells fall in no man's land And dined on the great prairie But the place I'm longing for tonight Is my home in Tennessee Oh, yes, I'm going back To my home in Tennessee Back to the girl that's waiting In the cotton fields to see There's a mother and a dad That's waiting patiently And the place I'm longing for tonight Is my home in Tennessee [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I've been to 'Frisco's golden gate Also that of Maine I've been to the Rocky Mountains And back down again Been up to old New York Saw the Statue of Liberty But the place I'm longing for tonight Is my home in Tennessee Oh, yes, I'm going back To my home in Tennessee Back to the girl that's waiting In the cotton fields to see There's a mother and a dad That's waiting patiently And the place I'm longing for tonight Is my home in Tennessee |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 12:58 AM Home by the Sea seems to be a rewrite of "Dear Old Home Beyond the Sea" by A. Hamilton Sims and William A. Keller (music) written in 1887. The sentiment is identical but the song probably entered traditional and was changed. You can loook here: http://lcweb2.loc.gov/diglib/ihas/loc.natlib.ihas.100007143/pageturner.html HOME BY THE SEA Carter Family [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] There's a lonely cottage by the seaside Where the water lilies strew the shore It was there I passed my happy childhood With a loved one that's gone before Then give me back my dear old home That old home by the sea And I never will wander far away From my home, my dear old cottage home Oh-le-lay-ee, ee-e-e-e-ee Ah-lee-oh-lay-ee, ee-e-e-e-e-ee [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Many years have passed since there I wandered But the old cot' ne'er has been forgot And my heart in fancy oft returns To that dear old familiar spot Then give me back my dear old home That old home by the sea And I never will wander far away From my home, my dear old cottage home Oh-le-lay-ee, ee-e-e-e-ee Ah-lee-oh-lay-ee, ee-e-e-e-e-ee [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Yes, my heart is like a humming sea shell That tells of its birth where e'er it roams I will sing of my cottage by the seashore Of my home, my dear old cottage home Then give me back my dear old home That old home by the sea And I never will wander far away From my home, my dear old cottage home |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 28 Nov 08 - 12:21 AM Hold Fast to the Right is from James Vaughan 1906. Lester McFarland and James Gardner recorded the song first in 1928. HOLD FAST TO THE RIGHT- Carter Family 1937 Kneel down by the side of your mother, my boy You have only a moment, I know But stay till I give you my parting advice It is all that I have to bestow Hold fast to the right, hold fast to the right Wherever your footsteps may roam And forsake not the way of salvation, my boy That you learned from your mother at home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] You leave us to seek your employment, my boy By the world you have yet to be tied But in the temptations and trials you meet May your heart to the savior confide Hold fast to the right, hold fast to the right Wherever your footsteps may roam And forsake not the way of salvation, my boy That you learned from your mother at home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I gave you to god in your cradle, my boy And taught you the best that I knew And as long as His mercies permits me to live I shall never stop praying for you Hold fast to the right, hold fast to the right Wherever your footsteps may roam And forsake not the way of salvation, my boy That you learned from your mother at home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] You will find in this satchel a Bible, my boy It's a book of all others are built It will help you to live and prepare you to die And will lead to the gates of the blest Hold fast to the right, hold fast to the right Wherever your footsteps may roam And forsake not the way of salvation, my boy That you learned from your mother at home |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 09:02 PM "Hello Stranger" is a collection of blues and traditional lyrics from different songs arranged by A.P. Carter. It's been recorded by Doc Watson; Hazel and Alice. HELLO, STRANGER Written and arranged A.P. Carter 1937 [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Hello, stranger, put your loving hand in mine Hello, stranger, put your loving hand in mine You are a stranger and you're a pal of mine. Get up, rounder, let a working man lay down Get up, rounder, let a working man lay down You are a rounder, but you're all out and down [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Every time I ride the 6th and 4th streetcar Every time I ride the 6th and 4th streetcar I can see my baby peeping through the bars. She bowed her head, she waved both hands at me She bowed her head, she waved both hands at me I'm prison bound, I'm longing to be free [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Oh, I'll see you when your troubles are like mine Oh, I'll see you when your troubles are like mine Oh, I'll see you when you haven't got a dime. Weeping like a willow, mourning like a dove Weeping like a willow, mourning like a dove There's a girl up the country that I really love [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Hello, stranger, put your loving hand in mine Hello, stranger, put your loving hand in mine You are a stranger and you're a pal of mine |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 03:43 PM Hello Central, Give Me Heaven is a saon by Charles k. Harris written in 1901. Here's a link to the sheet music: http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query HELLO, CENTRAL! GIVE ME HEAVEN 1934 Carter Family Hello, central, give me heaven For I know my mother's there And you'll find her with the angels Over on the golden stair She'll be glad it's me a-speakin' Won't you call her for me please For I surely want to tell her That we're sad without her here Hello, central, give me heaven For I know my mother's there And you'll find her with the angels Over on the golden stair [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Papa dear is sad and lonely Sobbed a tearful little child Since mama's gone to heaven Papa dear, you do not smile I must speak to her and tell her That we want her to come home You just listen while I call her Call her through the telephone Hello, central, give me heaven For I know my mother's there And you'll find her with the angels Over on the golden stair [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I will answer just to please her Yes, dear hearts, I'll soon come home Kiss me, mama, it's your daughter Kiss me through the telephone |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 02:14 PM Heaven's Radio is a gospel song recorded by the Carters in 1940. Stamps-Baxter music copyrighted a song by Brumley title "Heaven's Radio Station Is In The Air" in 1943. Not sure if there's a conncetion. From a 1942 book: Such items as a Negro woman singing a song she composed called "Heaven's Radio" in which the words are the expression of a simple mind. The song was refernced to a Freddie Lee Kirby who was a black choir director in Texas during the 1930s. [Popular Song Index: Third Supplement By Patricia Pate Havlice Published by Scarecrow Press, 1989] There's no direct source I could find. Anyone? HEAVEN'S RADIO Carter Family There's a wonderful invention It's called the radio You can hear it every where you chance to go But the static in the air Sometimes makes it hard to hear But it is not so with heaven's radio. CHORUS: Heaven's radio on the other shore For my precious savior always listens in It's the same old radio that was used long time ago For my precious savior always listens in Daniel in the lions den With this power should surely win For my precious savior always listens in And I know without a doubt Honest prayers will bring you out For my precious savior always listens in Well He set the Hebrews three From the fiery furnace free For my precious savior always listens in He will rescue you today In that same old fashioned way For my precious savior always listens in |
Subject: Lyr Add: THE HEART THAT WAS BROKEN FOR ME From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 01:36 PM Heart That Was Broken for Me is a southern gospel song by Judson W. Van DeVenter (1855-1939) written in 1914. Van DeVenter attended Hillsdale College, Michigan, then taught art in Sharon, Pennsylvania. After several years, he decided to switch to a career in evangelism, working with Wilbur Chapman and others in America and England. Toward the end of his life, he lived in St. Petersburg, Florida, then moved to Tampa, Florida, around 1923. He was professor of hymnology at the Florida Bible Institute (now Trinity Bible College) for four years. Probably his best know gospel song is "I Surrender All" THE HEART THAT WAS BROKEN FOR ME- Carter Family 1938 There came from the skies In the days long ago The Lord with a message of love The world knew Him not He was treated with scorn This wonderful Gift from above They crowned Him with thorns He was beaten with straps He was wounded and nailed to the tree But the pain in His heart Was the hardest to bear The heart that was broken for me He came to His own To his owners He loved The sheep that had wandered astray They heard not His voice But the Friend of mankind Was halted and driven away I will take up my cross I will walk by His side For the pathway of duty I see I will follow my Lord And abide in His heart The heart that was broken for me |
Subject: Lyr Add: HE TOOK WHITE ROSES FROM HER HAIR From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 09:52 AM He Took a White Rose from Her Hair is a traditional song usually titled "The (Little) White Rose" and was first recorded in 1927 by Red Patterson and his Piedmont Log Rollers. Again the title was probably changed by the Carters to prevent copyright problems. The song appears in print in 1929 jOAFL. I found this snippet on-line: "O, Willie," I said with a smile, "I'm sure I will have to say no." He took a white rose from my hair And said "Good bye, I must go. Here's a version on-line from Alabama: http://books.google.com/books?id=ZG_VpWAciWsC&pg=PA290&dq=took+a+white+rose+folk+song&lr=&as_brr=0&ie=ISO-8859-1&output=html "The White Rose" was a favorite of WHAS radio radio star Frankie Moore and his Log Cabin Boys. They included the song in their 1936 songbook. HE TOOK WHITE ROSES FROM HER HAIR- Carter Family 1935 Oh Willie my darling come back I will ever be faithful and true Oh Willie my darling come back I'll forever be faithful to you I remember once that he said He loved me better than his life He called me his darling his wife Then asked me to be his own bride Oh darling he said I am sure Your heart is made of a stone He took a white rose from my hair Then left me a standing alone The next day poor Willie was dead He was found in the pond near the mill Oh the clear precious waters so fair That flows from the branch up the hills His blue eyes were forever closed And damp was his golden hair And close to his pale lips was found The white rose which he took from my hair |
Subject: Lyr Add: HE NEVER CAME BACK From: Richie Date: 27 Nov 08 - 09:20 AM He Never Came Back was written by William Jerome in 1892 and can be viewed here: http://levysheetmusic.mse.jhu.edu/levy-cgi/display.cgi?id=141.006.001;pages=4;range=0-3 HE NEVER CAME BACK Words and Music by William Jerome. Boston: Oliver Ditson Co., 1892. 1. A soldier kissed his wife goodbye. He was going to the war. The tears they trickled down the face of the one he did adore. "Be patient until I return, my own sweetheart," he cried, But at the battle of Bull Run, he like a soldier died. CHORUS: He never came back. He never came back. His dear form she never saw more. But how happy she'll be When his sweet face she'll see When they meet on that beautiful shore. 2. I went into a restaurant as hungry as a bear, And like a raving maniac, I grabbed the bill of fare. The waiter said, "What will you have?" "Bring me a steak," I say. He took my order, bowed his head, and slowly walked away. CHORUS: He never came back. He never came back. I waited an hour or more, But his face I will break If he's not got that steak When we meet on that beautiful shore. 3. I went to see the Barnum's show and took my mother-in-law. She laughed at ev'rything she saw until it broke her jaw. Outside the tent, a big balloon it proved to be my friend. I shoved her in, then cut the rope, and up she did ascend. CHORUS: She never came back. She never came back, But high in the air she did soar, And I'm happy tonight That she's way out of sight Till we meet on that beautiful shore. 4. A jay that lived "down on the farm" came in to see the town And registered at Smith's Hotel as Mister Hayseed Brown. He took his key and went upstairs with whiskers green as grass, Pulled off his boots, jumped into bed, and then blew out the gas. CHORUS: He never came back. He never came back. And when they broke open the door, The last words he said, Before he dropped dead, Were, "We'll meet on that beautiful shore." 5. An old maid who was forty-five, she madly fell in love, And with a young man just nineteen who called her turtledove. The wedding day at last arrived. The birds did gaily sing. He touched her for a hundred to go out and buy the ring. CHORUS: He never came back, Her sailor boy Jack, But left her up on the top floor. The sassy young thing, He may bring her the ring When they meet on that beautiful shore. Fiddlin' John Carson first recorded the song in 1926 as "When We Meet on that Beautiful Shore." The Carters recorded theirs in 1937: HE NEVER CAME BACK- Carter Family An old Jane about 49 came in to view the town She registered up at Smith's Hotel as Miss Ada Brown She said she was just 25 and that she was in love With a young lad about 16, she called him her turtledove The wedding day at last arrived, the birds did merrily sing He touched her up for a hundred to go out and buy the ring He never came back, no, he never came back He's been gone for a year or more That sassy young thing better have that ring When we meet on that beautiful shore [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] I went down to a restaurant as hungry as a bear And a raving thief I did, I grabbed the bill of fare The waiter said, now what for you, a piece of steak, I said He taken my order and bowed his head and slowly walked away No, he never came back, no, he never came back I waited an hour or more His neck I will break if he has not that steak When we meet on that beautiful shore |
Subject: Lyr Add: HAPPY OR LONESOME From: Richie Date: 26 Nov 08 - 09:21 PM "Happy or Lonesome" is likely based on an earlier parlor song and was first collected by Dick Burnett and published in 1913 as "Are You Happy or Lonesome" in his songster; the same songster that produced "Man Of Constant Sorrow." Burnett and Rutherford first recorded the song in 1927. The Carters slight name change was probably recommended by Peer to prevent copyright problems since the song was copyrighted by Columbia. HAPPY OR LONESOME- Carter Family, 1934 Come back to me in my dreaming Come back to me once more Come with the love light gleaming As in the days of yore I wonder if you still love me And if your heart is still true When the spring roses are blooming Then I'll come back to you Somewhere a heart is breaking And calling me back to you Memories of loved ones awaiting Each happy home and you Absence makes my heart fonder Is it the same with you Are you still happy, I wonder Or do you feel lonesome, too [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When the sun is sinking In the golden west And the birds and flowers They have gone to rest Come tell me that you still love me And that your heart is still true When the spring roses are blooming Then I'll come back to you Somewhere a heart is breaking And calling me back to you Memories of loved ones awaiting Each happy home and you Absence makes my heart fonder Is it the same with you Are you still happy, I wonder Or do you feel lonesome, too |
Subject: Lyr Add: HAPPY IN PRISON From: Richie Date: 26 Nov 08 - 08:59 PM Happy in the Prison is also known as "When I Lay my Burdens Down" or "Since I Lay my Burdens Down." There's a bunch of info here from different source including the DT. Here's the 1927 Earnest Phipps Holiness Quartet version: HAPPY IN PRISON- 1927 Earnest Phipps Holiness Quartet Well I am happy in this prison Yes, I'm happy everywhere In my heart the Savior's risen Of 10,000 he was spared CHORUS: Glory, glory, *hallelujah Sinners lay that burden down Glory, glory, hallelujah For a cross receive a crown (fiddle) Oh Pentecostal reign is falling And its coming draweth nigh Well I can hear the Savior calling Go in heaven or you die. CHORUS (Fiddle) Oh thousands bless the (loving Leader?) Who've never felt the touch of power. And they'd love to (?) Oh Jesus told us of that hour. CHORUS (Fiddle) Oh the season is (?) Oh will you talk to Him for good (?) Oh it is a joyful healing, When you know your heart is pure. CHORUS If anyone has the complete lyrics is would help. Blind Roosevelt Graves recorded this traditional spiritual in 1929 backed with an incredibly hot band, Mississippi Jook Band, that included his brother Aaron. When I Lay My Burden Down Glory glory, hallelujah, When I lay my burdens down Glory glory, hallelujah, When I lay my burdens down All of my troubles will be over, When I lay my burdens down,... (x2) I'll go home to meet my Savior, When I lay my burdens down,... (x2) I will see, see my mother, When I lay my burdens down,... (x2) SINCE I LAID MY BURDEN DOWN- The Elders McIntorsh and Edwards' Sanctified Singers Recorded Chicago: December 4, 1928 Elders McIntorsh and Edwards, vocals and guitar; Bessie Johnson and Melinda Taylor, vocals and tambourine Originally released on Okeh 8698 McIntorsh and Edwards were Elders in the Church of God in Christ. They lived in the Mid-South, spending part of their professional and spiritual career (in the middle to late 1920s) in or near Memphis. Despite his Irish sounding name, McIntorsh was an African-American, who was probably born in Mississippi around 1890. In addition to "Since I Laid My Burden Down," McIntorsh recorded a powerful song about the 1927 Mississippi Flood with the help of Sister Bessie Johnson. He was last known to be living in the "Bootheel" of Missouri (about 100 miles north of Memphis) in the early 1970s. A more recent group from the Church of God in Christ was the Edwin Hawkins Singers, which had a hit song in the 1960s with "Oh Happy Day" (Bernard Klatzko, notes from Herwin 202). FOR ADDITIONAL RECORDINGS of Elder Lonnie McIntorsh see the collections: Country Gospel Song (FW RBF19c) Memphis Gospel, 1927-1939 (DOC 5072c); Bessie Johnson 1928-1929 (HER 202a); In the Spirit (OJL 12a); and Kings of Memphis Town, 1927-1930 (Roots 333a). OTHER RECORDED VERSIONS include: Folksong revival: as When I Lay My Burden Down: Hedy West (BF 15003c). Blues: as Since I Laid My Burden Down: Mississippi John Hurt (VG 19/20c, VG 79248c); as When I Lay My Burden Down: Cat-Iron (Folkways 2389 c); Blind Roosevelt Graves (Wolf 110c); Mississippi Fred McDowell (AH 1021a, AH 304c, TST 5019c); Robert Pete Williams (Southland 4a). Gospel: as Since I Laid My Burden Down: Bernice Reagon (FF 411c); The Soul Searchers (Nashboro 7171a); as Glory Glory Hallelujah Since I Laid My Burden Down: Blue Spring Mississippi Baptist Delegation (SF 40073c); Joseph Spence (SF 40066c); as When I Lay My Burden Down: The Detroiters (Speciality 7034c); Barbara Hendricks (Angel 47026c); Turner Junior Johnson (LC AAFS L10a). Country/String Band: as When I Lay My Burden Down: Roy Acuff (COL 39998c); Maddox Brothers and Rose (AH 391c). Jazz: as When I Lay My Burden Down: The Lapsey Brass Band (FW 2650c). Rock: as When I Lay My Burden Down: Don Nix (Enterprise 1032a)). GLORY GLORY (HALLELUJAH) (SINCE I LAID MY BURDEN DOWN) Traditional Negro Spiritual REFRAIN: Glory glory, hallelujah Since I lay my burden down Glory glory, hallelujah Since I lay my burden down Glory glory, hallelujah Since I lay my burden down Glory glory, hallelujah Since I lay my burden down All my sickness will be over When I lay my burden down All my sickness will be over When I lay my burden down All my troubles will be over When I lay my burden down All my troubles will be over When I lay my burden down Lord, I'm feeling so much better Since I lay my burden down Lord, I'm feeling so much better Since I lay my burden down ALTERNATE STYLE FOR REFRAIN: Glory glory, (Glory glory!) hallelujah (hallelujah!) Since I lay (Since I lay) my burden down (my burden down!) Glory glory, (Glory glory!) hallelujah (hallelujah!) Since I lay (Since I lay) my burden down (my burden down!) Glory glory, (Glory glory!) hallelujah (hallelujah!) Since I lay (Since I lay) my burden down (my burden down!) Glory glory, (Glory glory!) hallelujah (hallelujah!) Since I lay (Since I lay) my burden down (my burden down!) SOURCE: Park New Choir When I Lay My Burden Down Alternative titles are: "When I Laid [Lay] My Burden Down," "Glory, Glory, Hallelujah," and "I'm Gonna Lay My Burdens Down." The last is by Doc Watson (in On Praying Ground). See also notes to Harry Smith's Anthology of American Folk Music (Smithsonian Folkways), no. 49 (The Elder McIntorsh and Edwards' Sanctified Singers). An earlier version was recorded by Odum & Johnson (Negro Workaday Songs, 1926, p. 200): Glory, glory, hallelujah, when I lay my burden down, Glory, glory, hallelujah, when I lay my burden down, Glory, glory, hallelujah, when I lay my burden down, I gonna be in heaven when I lay my burden down. Glory, glory, hallelujah, I's goin' to my home on high, Glory, glory, hallelujah, I's goin' to my home on high, Glory, glory, hallelujah, I's goin' to my home on high, I's gonna be in my home when I lay my burden down. There's a different song entitled "Lay Dis Body Down" in Slave Songs of the United States (p. 19). LAY THIS BODY DOWN- Traditional Negro Spiritual 1. O graveyard, O graveyard, I'm walkin' troo de graveyard; Lay dis body down.] 2 * I know moonlight, I know starlight, I'm walkin' troo de starlight; Lay dis body down. * O moonlight (or moonrise); O my soul, O your soul. [This is probably the song heard by W. H. Russell, of the London Times, as described in chapter xviii. of "My Diary North and South." The writer was on his way from Pocotaligo to Mr. Trescot's estate on Barnwell Island, and of the midnight row thither he says: "The oarsmen, as they bent to their task, beguiled the way by singing in unison a real negro melody, which was unlike the works of the Ethiopian Serenaders as anything in song could be unlike another. It was a barbaric sort of madrigal, in which one singer beginning was followed by the others in unison, repeating the refrain in chorus, and full of quaint expression and melancholy:-- 'O your soul! oh my soul! I'm going to the churchyard To lay this body down; Oh my soul! oh your soul! we're going to the churchyard To lay this nigger down.' And then some appeal to the difficulty of passing the 'Jawdam' constituted the whole of the song, which continued with unabated energy during the whole of the little voyage. To me it was a strange scene. The stream, dark as Lethe, flowing between the silent, houseless, rugged banks, lighted up near the landing by the fire in the woods, which reddened the sky--the wild strain, and the unearthly adjurations to the singers' souls, as though they were palpable, put me in mind of the fancied voyage across the Styx." We append with some hesitation the following as a variation; the words of which we borrow from Col. Higginson. Lt. Col Trowbridge says of it that it was sung at funerals in the night time--one of the most solemn and characteristic of the customs of the negroes. He attributes its origin to St. Simon's Island, Georgia:] I know moonlight, I know starlight; I lay dis body down.] 2 I walk in de moonlight, I walk in de starlight; I lay dis body down. 3 I know de graveyard, I know de graveyard, When I lay dis body down. 4 I walk in de graveyard, I wall troo de graveyard, To lay, &c. 5 I lay in de grave an' stretch out my arms; I lay, &c. 6 I go to de judgement in de evenin' of de day When I lay, &c. 7 And my soul an' your soul will meet in de day When we lay, &c. ["'I'll lie in de grave and stretch out my arms' Never, it seems to me, since man first lived and suffered, was his infinite longing for peace uttered more plaintively than in that line."--Col. Higginson.] HAPPY IN PRISON- Carter Family I am happy in a prison Yes, I'm happy anywhere In my soul my savior's risen Of 10,000 he is fair Glory, glory, hallelujah Sinners lay your burdens down Glory, glory, hallelujah For a cross receive a crown [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] When the food is low and failing And the children bare for clothes I look up to father's healing For I know my savior knows I am happy in a prison Yes, I'm happy anywhere In my soul my savior's risen Of 10,000 he is fair [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK] Any cost, a fire is burning And its coming draweth nigh But I'm happy, always happy Though in prison I must die I am happy in a prison Yes, I'm happy anywhere In my soul my savior's risen Of 10,000 he is fair |
Subject: Lyr Add: JEALOUS-HEARTED BLUES From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 26 Nov 08 - 08:38 PM "Jealous-Hearted Blues" was a standard with Ma Rainey. The song was copyrighted by Lovie Austin, but most of the verses can be found in tradition. Recorded by Ma Rainey between 1923-1928. Lyr. Add: JEALOUS-HEARTED BLUES (Austin) 1 You can have my money and everything I own, But for God sakes leave my man alone; Chorus: 'Cause I'm jealous, jealous, jealous hearted me, Lord, I'm just jealous, jealous as I can be. 2 It takes a rocking chair to rock, rubber ball to roll, Takes the man I love to satisfy my soul; Chorus: Got a range in my kitchen cooks nice and brown, All I need is my man to turn my damper down; Chorus: Gonna buy me a bulldog to watch him while I sleep, To keep my man from making his midnight creep; Chorus: From "Mother of the Blues, a Study of Ma Rainey," Sandra R. Lieb. A portion on line. Many verses by different performers. The Carters used Ma Rainey's version. |
Subject: RE: Origins: The authors of the 'Carter Family songs' From: Richie Date: 26 Nov 08 - 08:28 PM Thanks Q, I had that information at one point but my computer crashed, also I had the singers name as Ruby Bass (typical typo). R- |
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