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Subject: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Nathan Sarvis (nsarvis@tenet.edu) Date: 08 Sep 97 - 10:15 PM Looking for lyrics to this fiddle tune. I think there are probably floating verses, and I think this has "floated" into other tunes--I found "Shiloh" with the phrase "Goodbye Liza Jane" in the chorus, but assume that was borrowed from the fiddle tune. Any help is appreciated. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: L'IL LIZA JANE From: Gene Date: 09 Sep 97 - 12:12 AM Here's a few verses I have collected... L'IL LIZA JANE
I've got a gal and you've got none, l'il Liza Jane CHORUS: Oh Eliza, l'il Liza Jane; Oh Eliza, l'il Liza Jane.
Liza Jane done come to me; l'll Liza Jane
Come my love and live with me; l'il Liza Jane
Get a house and lot in Baltimore; l'il Liza Jane More verses to: L'IL LIZA JANE
I know a gal that I adore, l'il Liza Jane. CHORUS: Oh, Eliza, l'il Liza Jane.; Oh, Eliza, l'il Liza Jane.
Down where she lives, the posies grow; l'il Liza Jane.
I wouldn't care how far we roam; l'il Liza Jane. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: OldTimer Date: 09 Sep 97 - 03:06 PM Goodbye Liza Jane is different tune from L'il Liza Jane. I know GLJ as an instrumental and can't remember hearing any lyrics- though surely someone has put some to it. I have heard a song with a different name put to the same tune as GLJ, and if I can think of it I will put it up for you Nathan. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE, LIZA JANE^^ From: Barry Date: 09 Sep 97 - 03:58 PM GOOD-BY LIZA JANE (according to sandbag/songburg) was a minstrel song, traveling the mid west circus route on the program for Rutledge & Rogers.
Our horse fell down the well around behind the stable (2x)
Our goose swallowed a snail, & his eyes stuck out with wonder (2x)
My gal crossed the bridge, so she wouldn't get her feet wet (2x)
There are a couple of other Liza Janes: Liza Jane, Liza In The Summertime (or She Died On The Train) both dealing with a chorus of dead Lizas, then there's Mountain Top, I've also heard it as a fast reel, but never heard it done as well as the one Gene has above done by the Manhaden Chanteymen. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dale Rose Date: 09 Sep 97 - 04:46 PM After reading the first two comments, I went to dig through my records to find Goodbye Liza Jane by Charlie Poole, and Miss Lisa, Poor Gal by the Tenneva Ramblers. By the time I had dug them out, Barry had added his comment. I have located them, and am in the process of transcribing them right now. For those of you who know Charlie Poole, you know what a chore that can be. The words are totally different than those found by Barry. BRB |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE, LIZA JANE From: Dale Rose Date: 09 Sep 97 - 05:33 PM This is from County lp 516 The Legend Of Charlie Poole This was widely available at one time, and you might still find a copy or a cassette somewhere. County has issued two CDs of his material, but did not include this song. Despite listening intently many times, there are a few words that still defy my attempts to figure them out. I have put ? by those I am unsure of, and ???? where whole words are beyond me. There are extended fiddle breaks in the song. I will put up Miss Liza, Poor Gal later.
Goodbye Liza Jane
Chorus:
Give me here my gold watch and chain, Chorus, then repeat last five lines of chorus, substituting sweet for little |
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Subject: Lyr Add: MISS LIZA, POOR GAL From: Dale Rose Date: 10 Sep 97 - 12:57 AM The whole Liza Jane family of songs could probably make a good thesis. Here is another great old Liza song~~Miss Liza, Poor Gal as done by the Tenneva Ramblers on August 4, 1927. If the date sounds familiar, it is because that was the date of the famous Bristol sessions. The Tenneva Ramblers and Jimmie Rodgers were preparing to record, but they had a disagreement over whether to call the group the Tenneva Ramblers or the Jimmie Rodgers Entertainers. I guess you could say that the Ramblers "won" that little battle, but Jimmie Rodgers went in to record by himself, and the rest, as they say, is history. This is taken from the album, The Tenneva Ramblers, Puritan 3001, released in 1972. Your chances of finding a copy are slim, but if you do find one, it is worth the effort, as it contains some fine old time songs. Miss Liza, Poor Gal Oh, Miss Liza, poor gal, oh, miss Liza Jane, Oh, Miss Liza, poor gal, ?too late to catch the train?. I went to see Miss Liza, Miss Liza wasn't at home, Her old man took the broomstick and dragged it o'er my bones. That's it. repeat it as many times as you feel like it. The song is primarily a fiddle/banjo piece, with instrumental breaks after every two lines. Their version repeats the first two lines four times, and the second two lines three times. As far as the too late to catch the train phrase is concerned, I am pretty certain that is not right, but even after more than 20 years of listening to the song, I still can't tell. I guess this could qualify for mistakes made while listening to songs. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dale Rose Date: 10 Sep 97 - 01:00 AM Correction for Goodbye Liza Jane. Chorus substitution should be sweet for Miss, not little. I meant to add that to the previous post. Oh well, it didn't take you all that much longer to read them both.
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Ferrara Date: 10 Sep 97 - 11:46 AM Any chance that you could be looking for the song with this chorus:
Goin' down to Cairo, goodbye, goodbye, It's on the "Two by Four" album by Phil Cooper and Margaret Nelson. I don't know the fiddle tune, can't say if it's the same song. If you think it might be, I'll type it in. I'd have to look up my (handwritten) transcription, there are lots of verses. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Nathan Sarvis Date: 10 Sep 97 - 05:45 PM Ferrara, I think that's the one I'm after. Dale's fits the chorus of the tune I know, but I can't seem to get any of the others to fit. Thanks to all contributors anyway; I'm enjoying all the variants. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Ferrara Date: 18 Sep 97 - 03:48 AM Hi. Nathan, I'm sorry I haven't found those words yet. I'm going to have to transcribe them again. That's fine -- now that you've reminded me of the song, I want to sing it again! It's a lot of fun. I promise -- I'll have it up by the end of the weekend. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE, LIZA JANE From: rich r Date: 18 Sep 97 - 11:45 PM Here's a couple more versions to choose from: I.
Scraping up sand in the bottom of the sea, Shiloh, Shiloh
CHORUS: Oh how I love her, Oh Liza Jane Black those shoes and make them shine, Shiloh, Shiloh etc. A hump-back mule I'm bound to ride.... Hopped up a chicken and he flew upstairs... II.
Liza up in the 'simmon tree, and the possum on the ground
CHORUS: Whoopee Liza, pretty little girl
Cheeks are like the cherries, cherries like a rose.
The old folks down in the mountains, grinding sugar cane.
Whiskey by the gallon, sugar by the pound,
I went to see my Liza Jane, she was standing in the door
Her head is like a coffee pot, her nose is like a spout
I wouldn't marry a poor girl, I'll tell you the reason why.
The hardest work I ever done, was a-brakin' on a train.
The second version is from the singing of Bradley Kincaid. He was a professional entertainer who did mostly traditional based songs. He spent some time on the National Barn Dance and the Grand Ole Opry. This version is a blend of "Liza Jane" and "Possum Up a 'Simmon Tree" which were both minstrel songs. Note that many of the verses are not unique to "Liza Jane" but show up in versions of "Cindy" and "old Joe Clark". The second verse bears a resemblance to "Colorado Trail", and the fourth verse is similar to one in "Mary Anne". In the 1880's Eddie Cox, a minstrel show performer, published "Good-bye, Liza Jane" however he didn't claim any credit for writing it, just arranging it. In 1903 the Tin Pan Alley composer, Harry von Tilzer, published "Good-Bye, Eliza Jane" which was a different song altogether. In 1917 Cecil Sharp collected "Liza Anne" in Kentucky that also seems to blend Liza and the Piossum. Another version called "Liza Jane" was published in 1931 by Jean Thomas in a book "Devil's Ditties" |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOING DOWN TO CAIRO From: Ferrara Date: 20 Sep 97 - 03:15 PM OK, here's the version from Phil Cooper and Margaret Nelson.
GOING DOWN TO CAIRO
CHORUS:
1. Oh, how I love you, and ain't it a shame
2.She went up the new-made road, I went down the lane
3. Saddle up the yellow mule, curry down his mane
4. Oh, I'm goin' to leave you (goodbye, goodbye)
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Nathan Sarvis Date: 20 Sep 97 - 04:17 PM The "new made road" verse reminds me of one William A. Owens collected for "Sally Goodin" in his book "Tell me a story, sing me a song". Sal went up the public road I went up behind her; She stooped down to tie her shoe And I seen her sausage grinder. He relates how, at a gypsy show, the singer "left the ladies shocked and the men laughing" after singing only the first line, then leaving the stage, leaving the audience to fill in the rest with their imaginations. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Peter T. Date: 20 Sep 97 - 04:58 PM Just a note of thanks from a common citizen who can be of no help or assistance, but gee you guys are doing a hell of a lot of work. What a pleasure to read your contributions. Thanks again. Yours, Peter |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Peter T. Date: 20 Sep 97 - 05:06 PM Just a note of thanks from a common citizen who can be of no help or assistance, but gee you guys are doing a hell of a lot of work. What a pleasure to read your contributions. Thanks again. Yours, Peter |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Will Date: 20 Sep 97 - 07:49 PM I believe that I read somewhere that some people used this song as a game in situations where singing wasn't allowed because of religious observance. So rather than view it as a song, they used it as an active response type game, such as miming "picking up sand" and "blacking boots" and so forth. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jan From: Nathan Sarvis Date: 20 Sep 97 - 10:48 PM Peter T., thanks for the comment. You're obviously a man of breeding, with impeccable taste. I've been delighted with all the response to this one. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Gene Date: 23 Sep 97 - 12:05 AM I have 'Goodbye LIza Jane' by Bob Wills ....somewhere..
Have to look for it and will post the lyrics later...
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Subject: Lyr Add: CHARLESTON TOWN / GOODBYE LIZA JANE From: Gene Date: 08 Jan 98 - 12:13 AM RE: THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS-TODAY LP From the MGM presentation of ADVANCE TO THE REAR Which has the CIVIL WAR as a framework Background score composed by Randy Sparks CHARLESTON TOWN (Goodbye Liza Jane) Refrain Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! I'm gonna get my musket, Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Where'll I be in the mornin', Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! Repeat Refrain
Who's gonna save Atlanta? Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Oh! I'm gonna ride with Beauregard, Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Well, I'm gonna be with General Lee, Don't Cry! Don't Cry! When will I ever kiss your lips again? Don't Cry! Don't Cry! I'm gonna get my musket, Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Where will you be, my lover? Don't Cry! Don't Cry! Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! Charleston town is burning down, Goodbye! Goodbye! Goodbye! Liza Jane! It's Goodbye! Little Liza Jane. COLUMBIA RECORDS CL-2150/CS-8959 |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dale Rose Date: 01 Oct 98 - 05:19 PM Just moving this to the top to make it easier to find. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Alec Davidson in the U.K. Date: 05 May 99 - 03:45 PM Re: Charlie Poole's recording & lyrics. Sorry, I've forgotten who contributed the words. I have always thought the words "and the dress you wore of" was followed by "TUELLE" or "TULE" (pronounced CHEW-ALL). It is a dress-makers' fabric. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOOD BYE ELIZA JANE (Sterling, Von Tilzer From: Dale Rose Date: 05 May 99 - 05:22 PM It was interesting to me that you renewed this thread, since just yesterday I was looking at the sheet music, and thinking I should post the original lyrics. You stirred me into action, so here they are. Charlie, of course, had his own way of doing them!
Good Bye Eliza Jane
Look a' here, Liza, listen to me;
Chorus:
Look a' here, Liza, take off those rings; Chorus If you want to see the sheet music, just go to Good Bye, Eliza Jane at the Duke site.
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Subject: Lyr Add: MISS LIZA POOR GAL From: emily rain Date: 05 May 99 - 09:32 PM man, oh man, it's a liza jane festival! here are the words i know to miss liza poor gal: MISS LIZA POOR GAL
went up in the mountains
oh miss liza po' gal
first time i saw liza
asked her if she loved me
hardest work i ever done
hitched up dick and dinah whiskey by the barrel (etc.)
liza has a fella
i know she loves her fella
ridin' on a steamboat See Liza Jane in the Digital Tradition. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GutBucketeer Date: 06 May 99 - 01:15 AM Nathan: Do you play autoharp? I wonder how many different tunes go with the verses. Emily the Liza Jane in the database seems very close to your version, but the tune is different than the LiL' Liza Jane that I know (at least when the computer plays it through MIDI). It seems that Ferrara's and Dale's versions also probably have different tunes. Is this true? I have collected a lot of verses but you Mudcatters even came up with more! Good job. Jim |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE LIZA JANE (Eddie Fox) From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 07 Jul 02 - 02:01 PM GOODBYE LIZA JANE Eddie Fox, 1871, pub. Lee & Weller 1. The time has come and I must go, I must play on the old banjo. Walk Dad Lew, Oh Mister Lew, Ehe! Ehe! He! Hear me now- Chorus: I'm going away to leave you, goodbye, goodbye, I'm going away to leave you, goodbye Liza Jane. I'm going away to leave you, I'm going down to Lynchburg town; If you get there before I do, It's goodbye, Liza Jane. 2. The time has come, I do declare I want a lock of my girl's hair. Walk Dad Lew, Oh Mister Lew, Ehe! Ehe! He! Hear me now- Chorus: Behind the henhouse on my knees, I thought I heard a chicken sneeze. Walk Dad Lew, Oh Mister Lew, Ehe! Ehe! He! Hear me now- Chorus: "Twas nothing but a Rooster saying his prayers, And giving out a hymn Such a getting upstairs. Walk Dad Lew, Oh Mister Lew, Ehe! Ehe! He! Hear me now- Chorus: This is one of the oldest versions that we have a date for. The song is older; perhaps versions are preserved in old minstrel song booklets. Rich r mentions this song in a previous posting, but with the name mis-typed Cox. On the cover, it is listed as "Comic song, by Eddie Fox, as sung by Lew Simmons at the Arch Street Opera House." Like several other similar tunes, its origin usually is credited to minstrel shows, but probably based on old fiddle and play party songs. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 07 Jul 02 - 02:13 PM American Memory, Library of Congress, is the source for the Eddie Fox "Good bye Liza Jane." Type in Liza Jane, and sheet music appears as item 7, Sheet music. Good bye Liza Jane (Good bye must be typed in Search as two words) also turns up this song. I should have separated Good bye in the title. American Memory |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Nathan in Texas Date: 07 Jul 02 - 04:20 PM Interesting reading a thread that's lasted 5 years. To GutBucketeer, missed your question three years ago, but Yes, that autoharp player was me. But for "Goodbye Liza Jane" I prefer frailing it on the banjo. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE LIZA JANE From: GUEST,Al Date: 07 Jul 02 - 07:03 PM So far, none of the verses seem to match up to the tune I know as GLJ. Here are mine:
Eight more miles to Louisville, Good bye, Goodbye,
Chorus: Oh,Oh, Miss Liza
Can't stay here if you can't shuck corn, Goodbye, Goodbye,
Some folks say a preacher won't steal, Goodbye, Goodbye Al |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 07 Jul 02 - 10:28 PM Gwine down by the pars'nage, Now Liza you keep cool; I hasn't got time to squeeze you, I'se busy wid dis mule. Cho.: Whoa, mule, whoa, Whoa, mule, I say; Keep your seat Miss Liza Jane, An' hang to dat sleigh. De mule he jumped to one side, De sleigh she went kerflap, Broke my new suspenders, She fell on my lap. (from Alabama) When I went to see Miss Liza Jane, She was standin' in the door, With shoes and stockin's in her hands And feet all over the floor. (from Tenn.) As I went down de new cut road, she went down de lane. Was the last time I saw my true love so go 'long, Liza Jane. Go 'long, Liza Jane, go 'long, Liza Jane. She went up the new cut road, I went down the lane, Threw my hat in the corner of the fence, Good-by, Liza Jane. (Al) Good-bye, Miss Eliza Jane, I'm gwine to leab you; Don't care, Miss Eliza Jane, If it do grieb you. Good-bye, Miss Eliza Jane, good-bye etc. Go 'long, go 'long, go 'long, Liza Jane (3 times) She died on the train. N. C. These scattered verses from Newman L. White, American Negro Folk Songs. Juba dis and Juba dat, Juba shoot and kill a yellow cat, Juba up and Juba down, Juba shoot and missed the ground. Cindy went to meetin', She shouted and she squeeled; She got so much religion She broke her stockin' heel I went up to the mountain For to get a load of cane To make a jug of 'lasses Sweeter 'n Liza Jane. Get along home, Cindy, Cindy (twice) Fare you well. (mixture of two songs) My ole missus promised me When she died she'd set me free. She lived so long That her head got ball, And the Lord couldn't kill her with a hickory mall. (more floating verses from White) |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Pete Peterson Date: 08 Jul 02 - 01:35 PM the only recording I know of the Eddie Fox version is the recent one by Hobo Pie. (self-produced, 2000) anybody know of another? |
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Subject: ZDTStudy: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Joe Offer Date: 08 Jul 02 - 02:28 PM The song I'm familiar with is "Little Liza Jane," similar to what Gene posted up top. Then we have several versions of "Goodbye Liza Jane" posted here. The Digital Tradition has Liza Jane (she died on the train). Are they all the same song? -Joe Offer- There's so much information here, that it seems there's no reason for a separate DTStudy on this song. I'll mark it ZDTStudy for indexing. -Joe Offer- |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 08 Jul 02 - 03:08 PM Along with at least a dozen others under different titles, they all belong to the same cluster of fiddle-minstrel-play party songs. See current thread 48893 on Limber Jim, Buckeye Jim, Shiloh, etc., etc., for another cluster of the same type- and which also merges with Liza Jane, Susie Jane, etc. etc. Jim |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Mr Happy Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:20 PM my pal jim does a version with 5 string banjo. 'scarlet town' [chorus only-i don't know the verses] scarlet town is burning down, goodbye, goodbye scarlet town is burning down, goodbye, scarlet town ain't you feeling sorry,goodbye, goodbye ain't you feeling sorry,goodbye liza jane |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Al Date: 09 Jul 02 - 05:00 PM Joe, thanks for fixing my post. I think these are all different Lizas. If you want to call me, I'll play my version over the phone for you. Al 530-333-1109 |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Stewie Date: 09 Jul 02 - 09:00 PM Meade, Spottswood and Meade 'Country Music Sources' has an extensive listing of old-time artists recording this under a variety of titles:
Old Liza Jane - Uncle Am Stuart 1924 --Stewie. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 09 Jul 02 - 10:09 PM In American Memory, link in a posting above, there is a note under the fiddle tune "Greasy String" about "Liza Jane" and all of her relatives that is worth repeating. The author, at the Library of Congress, says: "'Greasy String' is known by that title in versions scattered across southwestern Virginia and West Virginia but under other titles the tune has turned up ... from Virginia to Texas and Missouri." Several sources are cited, with these alternate titles: Seneca Square Dance, Old Raccoon, Running From The Federals, Hell among the Yearlin's, Racoon's Tail, Coon Dog, Heel Flies, Rock Along John to Kansas, Get Away From the Federals, or Fall of Paris, Shoot the Turkey Buzzard, Dinah and LIZA JANE. "It is but a small step to a yet wider circle of related tunes such as the 'Liza Jane' of Southern Piedmont, minstrel stage and jazz band circulation, or another tune....called'Dinah.' In short, the tune is cut of a cloth so common in the Upper South, and in musical domains touched by the influence of the Upper South, that it could be described as a paradigmatic Southern tune, appearing in so many related versions, allied forms and modified guises that it almost defies genetic tracing." In his note on LIZA JANE, Vance Randolph (pp. 183-185, v. 3) says " This song has some lines in common with the "Old Joe Clark" play-party song ... and is related to the "Goodbye LIza Jane" ...."He gives three versions, including "Goodbye Susan Jane" (posted by rich r in thread 18221): Susan Jane . The Traditional Ballad Index, in its notes on LIZA JANE, cross-references to "Molly and Tenbrooks," "Run, Mollie, Run," "Push Boat," and to floating lyrics in "Cindy." Alternate titles given are "Goodbye Liza Jane," Saro Jane," and "Little Saro Jane." In notes on "Black Them Boots (Goin' Down to Cairo)" cross-reference is made to "Goodbye Liza Jane" and other Liza Jane songs. This one in this thread. A case for two sub-groups, "Liza Jane" and Goodbye Liza Jane" could be made, but verses are so intermixed that it is difficult to do so. In various threads, there are other related songs. Thread 25438: Charlotte "Charleston (Charlotte) is Burning," a version by Randy Sparks and the New Christie Minstrels, allied to Goodbye Liza Jane, also this thread. "Shiloh" is mentioned in thread 892: Shiloh "Pig in a Pen," thread 6059: Pig Pen "Eliza Jane- Oh Miss Liza, 446: Eliza "Oh Eliza, Little Liza Jane": thread 152: Eliza and this thread. "Susan Jane" thread 18221: Susan Jane Also see the thread on Limber Jim. Limber Any More?? |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Dicho (Frank Staplin) Date: 09 Jul 02 - 10:36 PM Charlotte link: Charlotte |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,jhol111964@sprintmail.com Date: 16 Oct 03 - 05:38 PM Has anyone deciphered Tom Watson's Liza Jane Poor Gal? Jim Holland Athens, AL |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 17 Oct 03 - 12:01 AM O law', Liza, po' gal version at bluegrassmessengers.com: Liza Jane 2 Probably close (scroll down- at the end of the write-up). Will look for the Watson recording, but I doubt that I have it. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 18 Oct 03 - 03:47 PM Watson Liza Jane lyrics on "Out in the Country," Intermedia/Quicksilver QS 5031 LP, 1982, cut # 11. Don't have it. Don't know if it has been put on cd. |
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Subject: RE: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Jim Dixon Date: 13 Apr 04 - 08:54 PM The Virtual Gramophone has a recording of GOOD BYE, ELIZA JANE, by Sterling and von Tilzer, which Dale Rose posted the lyrics to, above. It's a short recording (1:30), covering only the first verse and the chorus (twice), sung by Robert Price, and released in 1904. The sound quality is poor, but what do you expect for 1904? |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE, SUSAN JANE (Randolph, 1940) From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 27 Nov 07 - 09:02 PM From Randolph, Ozark Folksongs, vol. 3, 435B, Liza Jane. GOODBYE, SUSAN JANE I went to see my Susan Jane, she met me at the door, She told me that I needn't come to see her any more; She fell in love with Rufus Andrew Jackson Paime, I looked her in the face and said goodbye Susan Jane. Oh Susan quit your foolin', and give my love to me, Oh give me back my heart again, and I will let you be, I once did love you dearly, I cannot love again, I'm going away to leave you now, so goodbye Susan Jane. Her mouth was like a cellar, her foot was like a ham, Her eyes were like an owl's at night, her voice was never calm, Her hair was long and curly, she looked just like a crane, I bid goodbye to all my love, so goodbye, Susan Jane. Oh Susan, so deceiving, she'll never do to trust, I threatened once to leave her, and leave her now I must, I never will trust another, to cause me any pain, I trusted her, and all the girls are just like Susan Jane. Mrs. Joseph Pointer, MO, 1940. Lyr. Add: LIZA JANE (MOUNTAIN TOP) I'll go up on the mountain top, And plant me a patch of cane, I'll make me a jug of molasses, For to sweeeten little Liza Jane. Refrain: O po' Liza, po' gal, O po' Liza Jane, O po' Liza, po' gal, She died on the train. I'll go up on the mountain top, Put up my moonshine still, I'll make you a quart of old moonshine, For just one dollar bill. Head is like a coffee pot, Nose is like a spout, Her mouth is like an old fire-place, With the ashes all raked out. I went to see my Liza Jane, She was standing in the door, Her shoes and stockings in her hand, And her feet all over the floor. The hardest work that ever I did, Was a-brakin' on the train, The easiest work that ever I did, Was a-huggin' little Liza Jane. With score. Some of the verses in these songs have been used since early minstrel days. Carl Sandburg, 1927, "The American Songbag," pp. 132-133. Source not stated. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Q (Frank Staplin) Date: 27 Nov 07 - 09:38 PM Listen to Goodbye, Liza Jane, W. P. Detherow, Arkansas, 1952; Wolf Collection. Goodbye Liza Jane Twenty versions at Digital Library of Appalachia: Appalachia Just type Liza Jane in Quick Search and find over an hour of great music. It is possible that the Ada de Lachau composition was based on a tune similar to some of these. The chorus of some has much the same structure, starting with that 'Oh' or 'Ho' Eliza sound. Of course her version may have influenced those recorded here, but it could be the other way around. For the old fiddle tune, listen to the excellent fiddle playing of Emma Lee Dickerson of Kentucky. Scroll down to 14. Great! Joe Caudill on No. 17 has a good fast dance version. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Janie Date: 27 Nov 07 - 10:15 PM Terrific Q. Once again, you are my hero. Slight drift - #27 Clyde Davenort - don't hear fiddle played much cleaner and sweeter than that. His style, at least on that tune, is a bit unusual also. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: clueless don Date: 28 Nov 07 - 09:13 AM Adding one more voice to the cacophony - Years and years ago, in Ithaca NY, I remember Phil Shapiro singing a version very similar to what Mr Happy posted on 09 Jul 02 - 12:20 PM. A typical verse went something like this: scarlet town is burning down, goodbye, goodbye scarlet town is burning down, goodbye, Liza Jane! ain't you kinda' sorry? goodbye, goodbye ain't you kinda' sorry? goodbye Liza Jane! Don |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: BanjoRay Date: 28 Nov 07 - 09:38 AM Janie - I think #27 should be Clyde Davenport. Cheers Ray |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,PhilGE Date: 04 Dec 07 - 08:25 PM There's a short thread on this at rec.music.country.old-time back in 2001. Search for "Lyrics to Liza Jane". |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Janie Date: 04 Dec 07 - 10:23 PM Hi Phil, I couldn't find the URL you gave. is it correct as typed? Thanks, Janie |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,matt Date: 03 Jan 09 - 10:53 AM i learnt this song in the seventies: Scarlet town is burning down Good Bye good Bye Scarlet town is burning down Good Bye Liza Jane Chorus: Ain't you feeling sorry Good Bye Good Bye Ain't you feeling sorry Good Bye Liza Jane Liza Jane had eyes of blue Good Bye Good Bye Broke my heart and the of my best friends too Good Bye Liza Jane Chorus: Now Liza Jane's dead and gone Good Bye Good Bye But in my heart she lives on Good Bye Liza Jane Chorus: |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: cptsnapper Date: 03 Jan 09 - 11:13 AM I also learned Matt's version in the seventies and I think that it was from John Pearse. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Bugsy Date: 03 Jan 09 - 09:43 PM That's the version that I learned from Derek Brimstone Cheers bugsy |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Nathan in Texas Date: 03 Jan 09 - 10:43 PM Wow! Twelve years and the thread's still picking up steam. One advantage of a longlasting discussion is the resources that become available over the years. Youtube has 19 versions of "Goodbye Liza Jane" and over 400 of "Liza Jane." Here are a few to get you started: Aly Bain and Jay Ungar (This one is closest to what I was playing when I asked the question that started the thread) Bob Will's Version Gypsy Dave Smith's Version (Starts about 55 seconds into video) Movie version with Bob Wills |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Don in Virginia Date: 16 May 09 - 07:06 AM Learned this song from an old fiddler at gailax in the early 1970s- and have been signing it for years-- will check out the youtube versions to see if it matches the one i learned. our music web site depoyd@hotmail.com Up the river and around the bend Good by - good by Haven't seen Liza since I don't know when Good by liza jane chorus Oh how i love her - ain't that a shame oh how i need her - good by liza jane Here come paw in a buckboard wagon Good by - good by the axles off the wheels a draggin' Good by liza jane Were going down the wagon road Good by - good by where we'll end up i don't know Good by liza jane |
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Subject: Lil liza jane From: GUEST Date: 04 Feb 10 - 08:50 PM im singing this in choir and i love this song but the way i know it is: I've got a gallon you've got none, lil liza jane Ive got a gal that calls me hun lil liza jane oh Ellazia lil liza jane oh Ellazia lil liza jane but ive got a gal and youve got none makes more sence. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,heidi Date: 23 Apr 10 - 11:12 PM London own is burning down goodbye, goodbye, burning down to the ground goodbye Liza Jane Ain't ya mighty sorry, goodbye, goodbye ain't ya mighty sorry, goodbye Liza Jane |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Me!!!! Date: 26 Apr 10 - 09:15 PM In my choir we're sing ing a song called "Charlottown" Charlottown's burning down goodbye, goodbye Burning down,to the ground goodbye Liza Jane. Aint'ya mighty sorry? Goodbye, Goodbye Aint'ya mighty sorry? goodbye liza, goodbye Liza Goodbye Liza Jane. Goodbye Liza Jane |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Charles Macfarlane Date: 28 Apr 12 - 11:53 AM > I also learned Matt's version in the seventies and I think that it was from John Pearse. > That's the version that I learned from Derek Brimstone Yes, I have the same words from Derek Brimstone, it's on the vinyl album "Shuffleboat River Farewell", Rubber Records RUB 017. However, folksingers in those days were always ripping off each other's material. To realise this, you've only got to compare the discographies of The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and The Corries - I'm not criticising any of these, they were all very good acts in different ways, and I have favourite versions of songs from all three, I'm just saying that's the way it was. However, wrt to "Scarlet Town", Jon Betmead also recorded it on the vinyl album "A Vision Of Heaven", Plant Life PLR 004 (as well as "Trouble In Mind" which Derek Brimstone also covered), and Jon has these slightly different words, which he credits to Richard Farina, though it's clear from all the above that if the latter really did arrange the song in a particular way and copyrighted his version, he didn't write the original lyrics. Scarlet Town is burning down Goodbye, Goodbye, Scarlet Town is burning down Goodbye Lisa Jane. Chorus: Ain't yer feelin' sorry Goodbye, Goodbye, Ain't yer feelin' sorry Goodbye Lisa Jane. Lisa Jane I loved you You loved me, my best friend too Lisa Jane is dead and gone But her memory lingers on |
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Subject: Origins: Liza Jane From: tenn_jim Date: 15 Nov 14 - 04:58 PM A song I have played many times but never really knew its origin. Is it African American - Sam Chatmon, or Appalachian? |
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Subject: RE: Origins: Liza Jane From: Richie Date: 15 Nov 14 - 06:05 PM There's a number of different versions titled Liza Jane, the bluegrass version I play (She died on the train) is on my site here: http://www.bluegrassmessengers.com/liza-jane--version-6-six-versions--perrow-1905--.aspx These versions were collected by Perrow as early as 1905. It was also known in the African-American community, Richie |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOODBYE LIZA JANE (1868) From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 03:49 AM Q: "This is one of the oldest versions that we have a date for. The song is older; perhaps versions are preserved in old minstrel song booklets.: GOODBYE LIZA JANE As sung by Frank Lum, the great Sensation Comic Singer, with immense applause. Away down south where I was born, I husk the wood, and chop the corn, Walk that loo, oh! miss loo, Ah! ah! ah! Hear me now: For I am going away to leave you. Good-bye. Good-bye: I am going away to leave you, good-bye, Liza Jane. Oh! I am going away to leave you oh! I am going down to Lynchburgtown. If you get there before I do, oh! Good bye, Liza Jane. Ducks play cards and chickens drink wine, And monkeys grow upon grape vines: Walk that loo, oh! miss loo. Ah! ah! ah! Hear me now: Corn-starch pudding and tapioca pie. Oh! the gray cat picked out the black cat's eye. CHORUS. The old cow in the young cow's shed, Fell over a corn and broke off her head: Walk that loo, oh! miss loo. Ah! ah! ah! Hear me now: And when the jackass heard the row, He stabbed himself with the tail of a cow. CHORUS. A nigger came from Arkansaw, The worst old fool I ever saw: Walk that loo, oh! miss loo. He went some water for to get, And he carried it home in a corn basket. [Marsan, Henry DE, New Comic and Sentimental Singer's Journal, No.86, Vol.1, (New York: H. DE Marsan, 1868, p.652] Levy Sheet Music for Fox-Simmons version (posted up thread) |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 03:53 AM “Eddie Fox is known wherever minstrelsy is spoken. Mr. Fox's career began at the tender age of five years, and continued up until about 1897, when he "laid down the fiddle and the bow"—not because "there was no more work for poor Uncle Ned"—no, indeedy—for Mr. Fox refuses to grow old, and he could have work aplenty if he so desired. Newcomb and Arlington's Minstrels engaged him about 1867 ; subsequently he was with Newcomb's Minstrels. When Simmons and Slocum opened their minstrel house in Philadelphia in 1870, Eddie Fox was leader, and remained there several seasons. Likewise was he identified with Barlow, Wilson, Primrose and West's Minstrels at their inception in 1877, and continued with them during their existence as an organization, terminating in June, 1882. Other promient minstrel engagements were Barlow, Wilson Company, George Wilson's, Cleveland's, and his last—Al. G. Field's. Mr. Fox composed some of the most popular music in minstrelsy, notably the "Big Sunflower," immortalized by Billy Emerson; "Kaiser. Don't You Want to Buy a Dog?" for Gus Williams; "Noreen Moreen," "Goodbye, Liza Jane," "Carry the News to Mary" and scores of others. As a jig and reel player he is without a peer. Mr. Fox likewise enjoys the distinction of having been always the highest salaried "leader" in minstrelsy. Eddie Fox was born in Glens Falls, N. Y.( October 28, 1848 ; a letter addressed care of any minstrel show playing Philadelphia will always reach him.” [Rice, Edard Le Roy, Monarchs of minstrelsy, from “Daddy” Rice to date (New York: Kenny, 1911, pp.174, 195, 198)] “The comedy is in the hands of Eddie Fox and Fred Harper. Fox has cleaned up considerably since we saw him last. He has discarded the rubber tip on his nose and the dirty makeup, using but a little red on the nose and a light tramp make-up. He is wearing better clothes and has gotten away from the misfit suit.” [New York Clipper, “Beauty Review,” Cooper Show is Fast and Clean, 14 February, 1923, p.19] Note: Best guess, he died c.1926… and his wife's first name was Eliza. |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 03:55 AM More early period 'Liza thesis fodder: “...Another chap was drilling a hole through a revolver handle, and singing “Little old Liza Jane,” while another was limping across the window sill in search of fresh air, to the agonizing tune of tramp–tramp–tramp!” [The Ashland Union, “Brick” Pomeroy on Mosquitos, 25 October 1865, p.1] “Music Hall.– The “Cure,” by Collins, was the principal feature at this place of amusement last night. Johnny Tuers, Sheppard, Wallace, Ward, and Foster, were on hand in “My Little Ole Liza Jane”–they can't be beat in that. Go to see them to-night. The “Cure” will be repeated.” [Gold Hill (Nevada) Daily News, Evening News, 23 November, 1865, p.3] “Arlington Hall… Family Matinee Saturday at half-past two o'clock,… First week of “Little Old 'Liza Jane.” [Chicago Tribune, Variety Theatre, 29 April, 1867, p.4] |
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Subject: Lyr Add: GOLDEN SHOWERS From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 03:57 AM GOLDEN SHOWERS Written and composed by Jas. Maas, the well-known comedian – And being in all the Minstrel's Theatres in New-York City. The music can be obtained at the Music-Store of Wm. A. Pond & Co, 547 & 865 Broadway, New-York. “The horn of plenty's blowing, blowing , blowing, Pompey am a-crowing, crowing, crowing, honey: Silver streams am flowing, flowing, flowing, Golden showers falling down: Liza Jane has come to town. CHORUS. I feel so nice, I tell you Soney: Lasses nothing I'm like honey, Tickle me, I feel so funny, I colaps a-part. Clouds of glory hanging high, And little cherubims are singing in the chorus: Don't come near me, don't come nigh, They're bound for to adore us. The horn of plenty's, &c. Miss Liza's got a baby, baby, baby. Say Pompey keep that shady, shady, shady honey She's talking like a lady, lady, lady– Golden showers falling down, Liza Jane has come to town. CHORUS. I feel so nice, I tell you, Soney Lasses nothing, I'm like honey. Tickle me, I feel so funny, I colaps a-part. Clouds of glory hanging high, And little cherubins are singing in the chorus: Don't come near, don't come nigh, They're bound for to adore us. The horn of plenty's, &c.” [Marsan, Henry DE, New Comic and Sentimental Singer's Journal, No.61, (New York: H. DE Marsan, 1868, p.487)] |
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Subject: Lyr Add: HOOP 'EM UP 'LIZA JANE (1868) From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 04:02 AM HOOP 'EM UP 'LIZA JANE Goin' across 'de mountain, I gave my horn a blow, Thought I heard Mis 'Liza Yonder comes my beau. She's nicer than the roses, That grow down on the plain, I lub 'dat little yaller gal– My sweet ole 'Liza Jane. If you want to buy a horse, Don't by a horse dat's lame; But if you want to buy a mule, Buy ole 'Liza Jane. She's sweeter dan de 'lasses, Dat drops from sugar cane; She is de darlin' ob my heart– My sweet ole 'Liza Jane. [Marsan, Henry DE, New Comic and Sentimental Singer's Journal, No.137, Vol. II, (New York: H. DE Marsan, 1868, p.291] Note: aka Ole 'Liza Jane. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: I'M SOFT ON LIZA JANE (George Hart, 1871) From: GUEST,Phil d'Conch Date: 12 Aug 18 - 04:04 AM “I'M SOFT ON LIZA JANE. Written for the New York Clipper, By George G. Hart. Oh I'm a gay and festive nig, a bully boy am I; There's only one thing troubles me, I'll tell you by and by; I'm deep in love with a colored gal, I've got her on the brain– Oh, yes! The fact is, white folks, I'm soft on Liza Jane. Chorus.– Oh I'll never meet her equal, Nor see her like again, For she's the apple of my eye, And I'm soft on Liza Jane. When first we met I'll ne'er forget, 'twas down at Bowling Green; I thought her then the prettiest girl my eyes had ever seen; I raised my hat, she smiled a smile, her meaning it was plain, And since that time I've known no rest, for I'm soft on Liza Jane. Chorus.– Oh, I'll never meet her equal, &c. I asked her for to marry me– her answer it was “Yes;” And when the happy day comes round I'll leave you for to guess. There's only on thing that I fear, and it's my greatest pain, For fear some other nigger might get soft on Liza Jane. Chorus.– Oh, I'll never meet her equal, &c. [New York Clipper, Songs for the People, 21 January 1871, p.334] |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: GUEST,Li'l Liza Jane documentary film Date: 08 Aug 19 - 09:35 AM Dear Mudcat Folks, Thanks for this very informative thread. I am co-producer of a documentary film that centers on the family of "Liza Jane" songs, which would include "Goodbye Liza Jane," "Little Liza Jane," the play-party songs, and everything in between. We are in pre-production now, finishing up our research efforts, which have been considerable. We welcome any rare insights into the history and trajectory of these songs. Please feel free to check out our trailer, synopsis, and other information at www.lizajanemovie.com Thanks again, Dan Gutstein |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: clueless don Date: 08 Aug 19 - 11:07 AM I see that I made a (probably redundant) contribution to this thread back on 28 Nov 07 - 09:13 AM. I remember an occasion when some folks were singing this (the version of Goodbye Liza Jane I quoted back in 07), and then Mr. Shapiro started singing Collegetown is burning down goodbye, goodbye Collegetown is burning down goodbye Jason Fane Collegetown was (and almost surely still is) a section of Ithaca NY immediately adjacent to the Cornell University campus. Jason Fane (I'm not sure of the correct spelling of "Fane") was a landlord who owned properties in Collegetown. Fun memory! Don |
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Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Goodbye Liza Jane From: Joe Offer Date: 01 Feb 21 - 07:44 PM Another verse for "she died on a train" from Larry Joba: Her face was of a ruddy hue, Her hair was chestnut brown, Her eyes were like the thunderclouds, Before the rains come down. |
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