Lyr Req: My johnny is a shoemaker - response

Subject: Lyr Req: My johnny is a shoemaker - response
From: MMario
Date: 15 May 03 - 08:30 AM

got this little missive from a friend:

Do you know what the name of the response song to My Johnny is? Is it the same tune as the original? Do you know where I can find the lyrics? Is it public domain? Can I ask you even more questions in a 1 minute timespan?

My Johnny was a shoemaker is the song she is referring to - I have vague recollections of there being a "response" to it - but nothing definate.

anyone?

I had no luck in the Bodliean Library - haven't googled yet.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: My johnny is a shoemaker - response
From: Ringer
Date: 15 May 03 - 09:06 AM

I know two different (though similar) versions, the Steeleye Span one as linked by MMario above and another, imho superior - certainly the tune is better, one.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: My johnny is a shoemaker - response
From: Malcolm Douglas
Date: 15 May 03 - 09:18 AM

I think we're looking for an "answer to" the song (that is, a sequel), rather than a variant, of which there are several; all, so far as I know, having essentially the same tune. It appears to be a stage song of the mid 19th century, quickly picked up by tradition (see thread  My Johnny was a Shoemaker - origins? -as such, an "answer" written to capitalise on the song's success would not be unlikely, though I don't know of any such.

The American singer David Brown appears to have written a sort of sequel, Johnny Shoemaker, but I doubt if that's what your friend is looking for. Can she give us any further details?