Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Janie
Date: 12 Aug 15 - 07:15 PM

You are amazing Joe. Clearly your efforts represent extensive labor of love.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: artbrooks
Date: 12 Aug 15 - 09:46 AM

Available in both regular and spiral binding (latter releases 8/28). Direct link at Amazon:"Rise Again".

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Also available from editors Peter Blood and Annie Patterson at https://www.riseupandsing.org/
-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 12 Aug 15 - 07:28 AM

Still more....

• Tain't Nobody's Biz-ness If I Do
• Take It Easy
• Take Me Back To Tulsa
• Take 'Em Down
• Talk About Suffering
• Talkin' Bout A Revolution
• Talking Union
• Tanglewood Tree
• Te Recuerdo Amanda
• Tears In Heaven (featured in the Motion Picture RUSH)
• A Teenager In Love
• Telling Takes Me Home
• Thank God I'm A Country Boy
• Thanksgiving
• That Kind Of Grace
• That'll Be The Day
• That's All Right (featured in ELVIS, THAT'S THE WAY IT IS)
• That's The Way Love Goes
• That's The Way The World Goes 'Round
• Them Bones Gonna Rise Again
• There Goes The Mountain
• There Is Power In A Union
• There Is Power (IWW)
• There Was A Pig Went Out To Dig (Christmas Day In The Morning)
• There'll Be No Distinction There
• There'll Come A Day
• There's No Business Like Show Business (from the Stage Production ANNIE GET YOUR GUN)
• These Boots Are Made For Walkin'
• These Days
• They Can't Take That Away From Me (from THE BARKLEYS OF BROADWAY)
• They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love
• They're Taking It Away
• The Things We've Handed Down
• This Old Town
• This Pretty Planet
• Three Little Birds
• The Three Ravens
• The Thrill Is Gone
• Throw These Guns Away
• The Tide Is High
• Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport
• Till There Was You (from Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN)
• Time After Time
• Time In A Bottle
• Time To Remember The Poor
• Tip-Toe Thru' The Tulips With Me
• Tit-Willow (from THE MIKADO)
• The Titanic
• To Everyone In All The World
• To My Old Brown Earth
• Together We Can Move Mountains
• Tom Joad
• Tomorrow (from the Musical Production ANNIE)
• Touch The Sky (from the Walt Disney/Pixar film BRAVE)
• The Tracks Of My Tears
• Train On The Island
• Tree Of Life
• Tree Of Life
• The Trees Of The Field
• Trees Of The Wild
• Trouble In the Fields
• Trouble In This World
• True Colors
• Tumbling Tumbleweeds
• Turn The World Around
• Turn Your Radio Off
• The Twentieth Century Is Almost Over
• Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
• Two Hands Hold The Earth
• Ukulele Lady
• Uncle John's Band
• Under The Boardwalk (from the Original Motion Picture BEACHES)
• Under The Bridge
• Under The Sea (from Walt Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID)
• Underneath The Stars
• The Unicorn
• Unicornio
• Up Among The Heather
• Up On Cripple Creek
• Upside Down (from the Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment film CURIOUS GEORGE)
• Vatican Rag
• Vincent (Starry Starry Night)
• Viva La Vida
• Wagon Wheel
• Wahoo
• Waist Deep In The Big Muddy (The Big Muddy)
• Wake Up Little Susie
• Wal I Swan
• Walk Away Renee
• Walk Proud My Son
• Walkin' After Midnight
• Walking In Memphis
• Walkin' My Baby Back Home
• Walkin' On My Wheels
• Walls
• Wang Dang Doodle
• Mango Walk
• Wanting Memories
• Water, Sun, Earth And Sky
• Waterbound
• The Waves On The Sea
• Way Down The Old Plank Road
• The Way I Am
• Way Over Yonder In The Minor Key
• The Way You Do The Things You Do
• We Are Family
• We Are Soldiers In The Army
• We Are The Many
• We Are Young
• We Belong To The Earth
• We Gather Together (Tune Name: KREMSER)
• We Sail The Ocean Blue (from H.M.S. PINAFORE)
• We Shall Not Give Up The Fight
• We Shall Rise
• We Were There
• We Will Build This House
• We Won't Hold Back
• We'll Pass Them On
• We've Come This Far By Faith
• The Wearing Of The Green
• The Weight
• Welcome Table
• Welcome, Welcome Emigrante
• Well May The World Go
• What A Wonderful World (featured in the Motion Picture GOOD MORNING VIETNAM)
• What Can One Little Person Do?
• What I Want Is A Proper Cup Of Coffee
• What Will I Leave
• When A Soldier Makes It Home
• When I Go
• When I Lay My Burden Down
• When The Rain Comes Down
• When The Red, Red Robin Comes Bob, Bob Bobbin' Along (from I'LL CRY TOMORROW)
• When Will I Be Loved
• When You And I Were Young Maggie
• When You And I Were Young, Maggie
• When You Walk On
• When You Wish Upon A Star (from Walt Disney's PINOCCHIO)
• When You're Smiling (The Whole World Smiles With You)
• Where Are You
• Where Do The Children Play
• Where The Soul Of Man Never Dies
• Wherever You Go (I Love You)
• Whiskey In The Jar
• Whistle While You Work (from Walt Disney's SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS)
• The Whistling Gypsy
• White Christmas (from the Motion Picture Irving Berlin's HOLIDAY INN)
• Who Can Sail
• Who Knows Where The Time Goes
• Who Will Sing For Me?
• Who Will Sing Me Lullabies
• A Whole New World (from Disney ALADDIN)
• Why Am I Painting The Living Room?
• Why Do Fools Fall In Love
• Why Don't You Do Right (Get Me Some Money, Too!)
• Why Walk When You Can Fly
• Wide River To Cross
• Wild Rose Of The Mountain
• Wild World
• Wildwood Flower
• The Wind And The Rain
• Windy Old Weather
• Winter Wonderland
• Winter's Come And Gone
• Wisdom Train
• Witch Hazel
• With A Giggle And A Hug And A Tickle And A Kiss
• With Cat-Like Tread (from THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE)
• Within Our Darkest Night
• Women Be Wise
• Wondering Where The Lions Are
• Wooden Heart
• Woodstock
• Working On A Building
• World In Their Pocket
• The Worms Crawl In
• Wrap That Rascal
• Yakety Yak
• Ye Banks And Braes O' Bonnie Doon
• Yerushalaim Shel-zahav (Jerusalem, Jerusalem)
• Yes Sir, That's My Baby
• Y.M.C.A.
• Yolanda
• Yonder Come Day
• Y'All Come
• You And I
• You Are Not Alone
• You Belong To Me (from the DreamWorks Motion Picture SHREK)
• You Can't Always Get What You Want
• You Get A Little Extra When You Watch TV
• You Got To Know How
• You Gotta Move
• You Raise Me Up
• You Went The Wrong Way, Old King Louie
• You Won't See Me
• You'll Never Walk Alone (from CAROUSEL)
• You're My Home
• You're No Good
• You're Nobody 'til Somebody Loves You (featured in the Broadway Musical CONTACT)
• You've Got A Friend In Me (from Walt Disney's TOY STORY)
• You've Got To Be Carefully Taught (from SOUTH PACIFIC)
• You've Got To Hide Your Love Away
• You've Really Got A Hold On Me
• Your Cheatin' Heart
• Your Disco Needs You
• Your House Is Strong
• Your Long Journey
• Your Mama Don't Dance
• Your Song
• Your State's Name Here
• Zog Nit Keynmol

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 12 Aug 15 - 07:27 AM

(continued)

• Jack Was Ev'ry Inch A Sailor
• Jackson
• Jailhouse Door
• Jambalaya (On The Bayou)
• The Jeannie C
• Jenny Jenkins
• Jerusalem
• Jesse James
• John Hardy
• Johnny Come Down To Hilo
• Johnny Has Gone For A Soldier
• Jolene
• Jolie Blonde
• Jolly Rovin' Tar
• The Jolly Tinker
• Joy Comes Back
• Julia
• June Is Bustin' Out All Over (from CAROUSEL)
• Just One Earth
• Keep Your Lamps Trimmed And Burning
• Kind & Generous
• Kindergarten Wall
• Kitty Alone
• Knockin' On Heaven's Door
• Kyrie I
• L'chi Lach
• La Chanson Des Vieux Amants
• La Cucaracha
• La Vie En Rose (Take Me To Your Heart Again)
• Lady Of The Season's Laughter
• Lamb And Lion
• Lambeth Children
• The Last Battle
• Last Call
• Laudate Omnes Gentes
• Laughlin Boy
• Lay Down Your Weary Tune
• Le Deserteur
• Le Temps Des Cerises
• Leader Of The Band
• The Leatherwing Bat
• Leave Her, Johnny
• Leaving Eden
• Leaving Of Liverpool
• Leaving On A Jet Plane
• Leaving The Land
• Lema'an Achai Veriai (Psalm 122)
• Let It Be Your Lullabye
• Let It Go (from Disney's Animated Feature FROZEN)
• Let Justice Roll Down
• Let Me Make Peace
• Let My Stomach Be Soft And Round
• Let The Mystery Be
• Let Union Be (In All Our Hearts)
• Let's Do It (Let's Fall In Love) (from PARIS)
• Let's Get Away From It All
• Let's Go Fly A Kite (from Walt Disney's MARY POPPINS)
• Letter To Eve
• Lida Rose (from Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN)
• Lily Of The West
• Lion And The Lamb
• Little Black Bull
• (I'm Called) Little Buttercup (from H.M.S. PINAFORE)
• Little Cabin Home On The Hill
• Little Jack Horner
• Little Johnny Brown
• Little Maggie
• Little Sally Walker
• Little Satchel
• Live And Die
• Locally Grown
• The Loco-Motion
• Long Is Our Winter
• Long Kesh
• Lookin' Out My Back Door
• The Lord Is Good To Me (from Walt Disney's MELODY TIME)
• The Lord Is My Light
• Love And Happiness For You
• Love At The Five And Dime
• Love Call Me Home
• Love Chooses You
• Love Is All Around
• Love Is Here To Stay (from GOLDWYN FOLLIES)
• Love Makes A Family
• Love Me, I'm A Liberal
• Love Me Tender (from LOVE ME TENDER)
• Love Minus Zero/No Limit
• Love Potion Number 9 (from SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE)
• Love The One You're With
• Lowlands Away
• Lullaby For Teddy-O
• Lydia The Tattooed Lady
• The Mahogany Tree
• Make It, Mend It
• Mango Walk
• Many Rivers To Cross
• The Master Of The Sheepfold
• Matchmaker (from the Musical FIDDLER ON THE ROOF)
• May I Suggest
• Me And Bobby McGee
• Me And My Shadow
• Mean
• Mean Things Happening In This Land
• The Meeting Is Over
• Mercy Now
• The Mermaid
• Mi Chacra
• Mi Cuerpo Hace Musica
• Mi Shebeirach
• Michael Finnegan
• A Miner's Life (Is Like A Sailor's)
• Mingulay Boat Song
• Minstrel Boy
• Miriam Ha-Neviah
• Miss Mary Mack
• Miss The Mississippi And You
• Mrs. Robinson (from THE GRADUATE)
• Mister Rabbit
• Mister Sandman
• Mr. Tambourine Man
• Misty Morning
• Monster Mash
• Moon And Me
• Moonlight Bay
• More Than Enough
• The Mountain
• Move It On Over
• Mrs. Brown You've Got A Lovely Daughter
• Music In My Mother's House
• Muss I Denn Zum Städtele Hinaus
• Mustang Sally
• My Aunt Came Back
• My Babe
• My Baby Just Cares For Me (from WHOOPEE!)
• My Dirty Stream
• My Dixie Darling (Dixie Darling)
• My Dog Sam
• My Grateful Heart
• My Guy
• My Images Come
• O My Love Is Like A Red, Red Rose
• My Roots Go Down
• My Tennessee Mountain Home
• Mystery Train (from ELVIS ON TOUR)
• N'kosi Sikelel' I Afrika (African National Anthem)
• Naked As We Came
• Names
• National Anthem: Arise! Arise!
• National Brotherhood Week
• (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman (from BEAUTIFUL)
• Ne Me Quitte Pas
• Nearer, My God, To Thee (Tune Name: BETHANY)
• Nicaragua, Nicaraguita
• Night Rider's Lament
• Nine Pound Hammer
• Nine Times A Night
• 93 Million Miles
• No Banker Left Behind
• No Irish Need Apply
• No One Is Alone - Part I (from INTO THE WOODS)
• Not Fade Away
• Not In My Name
• O God Of Earth And Altar
• O How He Lied
• Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da
• Ocean Refuses No River
• Oh Dear! What Can The Matter Be?
• Oh Happy Day (from Touchstone Pictures' SISTER ACT 2: BACK IN THE HABIT)
• Oh, Lady Be Good! (from LADY, BE GOOD!)
• Oh, Mandolin
• Oh River
• Oh, Watch The Stars
• Okie From Muskogee
• Oklahoma Hills
• Ol' Man River (from SHOW BOAT)
• Old Before Your Time
• Old Cape Cod
• Old Home Place
• Old Zeb
• On A Slow Boat To China
• On Broadway (featured in the Motion Picture A CHORUS LINE)
• On Children
• On Eagle's Wings
• On The Rock Where Moses Stood
• On The Street Where You Live (from MY FAIR LADY)
• On The Sunny Side Of The Street
• Onawa's Waltz
• Once In A Very Blue Moon
• One Crane
• One Drum
• One Heart At A Time
• 100 Years
• One Kind Word
• One Love
• One Man Shall Mow My Meadow
• One Meatball
• 1,2,3,4
• One World
• The Ones Who Aren't Here
• Orphan Girl
• Our Little Town
• Outside Of A Small Circle Of Friends
• Owl Moon
• Oyfn Pripetchik (On The Fireplace)
• Ozi V'zimrat Yah
• Pace Egging Song
• Paddy West
• Pancake Hat
• Pancho And Lefty
• Panning For Gold
• Papa's On The Housetop
• Parlez-Nous A Boire
• Parting Friends
• The Parting Glass
• Parting Song
• Passing Through
• Paul Robeson Song (Powerful Voice)
• Pay Me My Money Down
• Paz y libertad
• Peace And Liberty
• Peace Train
• Peace Will Come
• (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love And Understanding
• Peaceful Easy Feeling
• Peg And Awl
• Pennies From Heaven (from PENNIES FROM HEAVEN)
• People Get Ready
• People Will Say We're In Love (from OKLAHOMA!)
• Pharaoh, Pharaoh
• Pierre
• A Place Called England
• Plant Me A Garden
• Playing Right Field
• Please Help Me, I'm Falling (In Love With You)
• Please Mr. Postman
• Pocket Full Of Stardust
• Political Science
• Polly Von
• The Power Of Loving You
• Prayer
• Pretty Brown
• The Promise
• Proud Mary
• Psalm 91
• Pure Grace
• Que Bonita Bandera
• Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be) (from THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH)
• A Question Of Tempo
• Quiet Hills
• Quinn, The Eskimo (The Mighty Quinn)
• Quite Early Morning
• Raggedy, Raggedy Are We
• Ragtime Cowboy Joe
• The Rainbow Connection (from THE MUPPET MOVIE)
• Rattlin' Bones
• Ready For The Storm
• Reason To Believe
• The Red Flag
• Red Rocking Chair
• Red Rubber Ball
• Red-Winged Blackbird
• Redbird's Wing
• Redemption Song
• Reuben And Rachel
• Reuben James (The Sinking Of The Reuben James)
• Rich Girl
• (Ghost) Riders In The Sky (A Cowboy Legend) (from RIDERS IN THE SKY)
• Right Here
• Ring Of Fire
• Rise As One
• Rise As One
• Rise Up Singing
• The River
• River That Flows Both Ways
• Rivers Of Texas (Texas River Song)
• Rock Around The Clock (featured in the Motion Picture AMERICAN GRAFFITI)
• Rock Me On The Water
• Rockin' In A Weary Land
• Rockingham Cindy (I Get My Whiskey In Rockingham)
• Rocky Top
• Roll De Ol' Chariot Along
• Roll On Woody
• Roll The Old Chariot Along
• Rolling Home
• Rolling In The Deep
• Rooted And Grounded In Love
• Rosa's Lovely Daughters
• Round The Bay Of Mexico
• Route 66
• Roving Gambler
• Rozhinkes Mit Mandlen (Raisins And Almonds)
• Rubber Duckie (from the Television Series SESAME STREET)
• Rusty Old American Dream
• Sacred Ground
• Sae Will We Yet
• Safe From Harm
• The Saga Begins (Parody of "American Pie")
• Sail Away Ladies
• Salaam
• Sam's Gone Away
• San Antonio Rose (from SAN ANTONIO ROSE)
• Sanctuary
• Sanctuary
• Sandwiches
• Santa Lucia
• Scalloped Potatoes
• Schedar
• The Scientist
• The Scotsman
• Searching For Lambs
• Season Of Peace
• Seasons Of Love (from RENT)
• Secret Agent Man (from the Television Series)
• See See Rider
• Seize The Day (from Disney's NEWSIES THE MUSICAL)
• Sending You Light
• Sensitive New Age Guys
• Sentimental Journey
• Senzenina
• Shalom Aleichem
• Shalom Rav
• Shalom Rav
• Shelter From The Storm
• Shenandoah
• Shine On
• Shoals Of Herring
• Shoo Fly, Don't Bother Me
• Shopping Is Therapy (My Favorite Things)
• Show The Way
• Shower The People
• Shtil Do Nakht
• Si Me Quieres Escribir
• Side By Side
• Silken Dreams
• Sim Shalom Round
• Sing A Song Of Sixpence
• Sing About These Hard Times
• Sing People Sing
• Singer Of Songs
• Singin' In The Rain (from SINGIN' IN THE RAIN)
• Singing Through The Hard Times
• Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves
• Sitting On Top Of The World
• Six Days On The Road
• Siyahamba (We Are Marching In The Light Of God)
• Skinnamarink (Skiddy-Mer-Rink-A-Doo)
• Small Town
• So Many Angels
• So Many Ways To Be Smart
• Softly And Tenderly (Tune Name: THOMPSON)
• Solar Topia
• The Soldier And The Sailor's Prayer
• Solo Le Pido A Dios
• Some Had Fathers
• Some Sweet Country
• Somebody Come And Play
• Someone Like You
• Someone To Watch Over Me (from OH, KAY!)
• (Something Inside) So Strong
• Somewhere To Begin
• Song For A Winter's Night
• Sonny's Dream
• Sons & Daughters
• Soon And Very Soon
• Soon I Will Be Done (Trouble Of The World)
• Sowing On The Mountain
• Speed Of The Sound Of Loneliness
• Spoon Of Sand
• Staines Morris
• Stand By Me (featured in the Motion Picture STAND BY ME)
• Star Trekkin'
• Stay With Me
• Still Small Voice
• Stones In The Road
• The Storm Is Passing Over
• Storms Are On The Ocean
• Straighten Up And Fly Right
• Stranger In Paradise (from KISMET)
• The Streets Of Old Quebec
• Suliram (Go To Sleep)
• Sulphur Passage
• The Sun Settles Down
• Sunny
• Suo Gan (Sleep My Baby)
• Surfin' U.S.A.
• Sweet Adeline (You're The Flower Of My Heart, Sweet Adeline)
• Sweet Betsy From Pike
• Sweet Caroline
• Sweet Georgia Brown
• Sweet Home Alabama
• Sweet Home Chicago
• Sweet Pea
• Sweet Roseanna
• Sweet Spot
• Sweet Sue-Just You (from RHYTHM PARADE)
• Sweet Thames Flow Softly
• Swinging On A Star (from GOING MY WAY)

Subject: Index: 'Rise Again' Songbook
From: Joe Offer
Date: 12 Aug 15 - 07:22 AM

Looks like the publication date for the Rise Again Songbook will be September 1. I started work on the book in August, 2014, and I researched some 1300 songs. 1200 of them were selected. I didn't always get my way, but editors Peter Blood and Annie Patterson did accept most of the changes I suggested. I'm glad they gave me a chance to give input on this book. My materialistic brother doesn't understand why I spent 8 hours a day for a year working on this book without pay, but I'm glad I did. To me, it's good enough that Peter and Annie named me one of two associate editors. Now that the book has gone to the printer, I'm working on a database of background information for every song in the book.
There are some aspects of this book that I really don't like. But all in all, I think it's a very good collection of songs that are presented very well. I'm especially proud of our "Ballads and Old Songs" and "Blues" chapters. "Pub Songs" and "Sea and Sailors" are a couple other chapters that I really like. I think we did justice to these songs. YOu can buy a copy of this book from http://amazon.mudcat.org/ for $17.58.
This is the list of songs for the book that's on the Website of our publisher, Hal Leonard. I think it's accurate.

• A La Nanita Nana (Hear Lullabies And Sleep Now)
• The A Team
• Abdul Abulbul Amir
• Ach Du Lieber Augustin (O My Dearest Augustine)
• Across The Borderline (from the Universal Picture THE BORDER)
• Across The Great Divide
• Across The Universe
• Addams Family Theme (Theme from the TV Show and Movie)
• Adieu Sweet Lovely Nancy
• Ain't Done Nothin' If You Ain't Been Called A Red
• Ain't Misbehavin' (from AIN'T MISBEHAVIN')
• Ain't No Rest For The Wicked
• Ain't No Sunshine
• Ain't Nobody's Business
• Ain't She Sweet
• Ain't That Good News
• Al Kol Eileh
• Alabama Bound
• Alison
• All Around My Hat
• All For Me Grog
• All For Me Job
• All I Have To Do Is Dream
• All I Really Want To Do
• All I Want Is You
• All In This Together
• All My Loving (from A HARD DAY'S NIGHT)
• Alleluia, Amen!
• Almost Every Circumstance
• Almost Like Being In Love (from BRIGADOON)
• Aloha Oe
• Along The Colorado Trail
• Alright For Now
• Alvin
• Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life (from MONTY PYTHON'S LIFE OF BRIAN)
• Always On My Mind
• Amazed
• Amen
• American Idiot
• American Pie
• And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda
• Angel Of The Morning
• Annie
• Another Black Man Gone
• Another Train
• Anyone Else But You (from the Motion Picture Soundtrack JUNO)
• Apples And Bananas
• Aquarius (from the Broadway Musical Production HAIR)
• Are You From Dixie?
• Are You Tired Of Me, My Darling?
• As Long As He Needs Me (from the Columbia Pictures - Romulus Motion Picture Production of Lionel Bart's)
• As Tears Go By
• As Time Goes By (from CASABLANCA)
• At Seventeen
• Away In A Manger (Tune Name: MUELLER)
• Baby Love
• Baby Mine (from Walt Disney's DUMBO)
• Baby, Now That I've Found You
• Baby, What You Want Me To Do
• Back In The Saddle Again
• Bad, Bad Leroy Brown
• Bad Moon Rising
• Ballad Of The Carpenter
• Banana Pancakes
• Barbara Ann
• The Bare Necessities (from Walt Disney's THE JUNGLE BOOK)
• The Barley Mow
• Beans, Bacon And Gravy
• Beautiful Ohio
• Beauty And The Beast (from Walt Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST)
• Been All Around This World
• Beeswing
• Before You Accuse Me (Take A Look At Yourself)
• Bei Mir Bist Du Schon (Means That You're Grand)
• The Bells Of Rhymney
• Bésame Mucho
• The Best Day Ever (from SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS)
• Between The Wars
• Bewitched (from PAL JOEY)
• Beyond The Sea (featured in the Walt Disney/Pixar film FINDING NEMO)
• Big Italian Rose
• Big Mamou
• Bird By Bird
• Bird On The Wire (Bird On A Wire)
• Birdhouse In Your Soul
• Birthday Round
• Black Horse And The Cherry Tree
• Blackberry Pie
• The Blackest Crow
• The Blacksmith
• Blame It On Your Heart
• Bless The Broken Road
• Bling-Blang
• Blood Red Roses
• Blow Away The Morning Dew
• Blue Boat Home
• Blue Moon Of Kentucky
• Blue Skies (from BETSY)
• The Blue Tail Fly (Jimmy Crack Corn)
• Bluegrass Boy
• Bonnie Light Horseman
• Book Of Love
• Boulevard Of Broken Dreams
• Bountiful River
• Box Of Rain
• Bracero
• Branching Out
• Breaths
• Bring 'Em Home
• Bring Back The Eight Hour Day
• Bring Him Back Home
• Bring Him Home (from LES MISERABLES)
• Bring It On Home To Me
• Bring Me A Boat
• Bring Me Lil'l Water, Sylvie
• Brown Eyed Girl
• Brush Up Your Shakespeare (from KISS ME, KATE)
• Buckets Of Rain
• Build Me Up, Buttercup (featured in the Motion Picture THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY)
• Bully In The Alley
• Bury Me Beneath The Willow
• Button Up Your Overcoat (from FOLLOW THRU)
• By The Beautiful Sea
• By Way Of Sorrow
• Bye Bye Blackbird (from PETE KELLY'S BLUES)
• Bye Bye Love
• Byker Hill
• Cake Walk Into Town
• Caledonia
• California Stars
• Call It Democracy
• Call Me The Whale
• Call The Captain
• Calling My Children Home
• The Calton Weaver
• Calypso Freedom
• The Campfire Song Song (from SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS)
• Can I Stand Here For You
• Can't Buy Me Love (from A HARD DAY'S NIGHT)
• Can't Help Falling In Love (from the Paramount Picture BLUE HAWAII)
• Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You
• Can't You Dance The Polka?
• Cancion a Victor
• Cancion Mixteca
• Canned Goods
• Carey
• Carry On
• A Case Of You
• Casimir Pulaski Day
• Cassiopeia
• Cat's In The Cradle
• Catch A Falling Star
• Cecilia
• Chapel Of Love
• Chariots
• Chattanooga Choo Choo
• Cheek To Cheek (from the RKO Radio Motion Picture TOP HAT)
• Child Of Mine
• Chittlin' Cookin' Time In Cheetham County
• The Christians And The Pagans
• Christmas In The Trenches
• Christmas In Washington
• The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
• Cinco Siglos Igual
• Circle Of Song
• Clear Away In The Morning
• Close The Door Lightly (When You Go)
• Closer To Fine
• Cluck Old Hen
• Coal Town Road
• Cold, Cold Heart
• The Colorado Trail
• Coloring Outside The Lines
• The Colors Of Earth
• Come Ye Thankful People Come
• Come, Ye Thankful People, Come (Tune Name: ST. GEORGE'S WINDSOR)
• Common Ground
• Common Ground
• Consider Yourself (from the Columbia Pictures - Romulus Motion Picture Production of Lionel Bart's)
• Corrina
• Corrina, Corrina
• Courage
• The Court Of King Caractacus
• Crazy
• The Creek's Gonna Rise
• Crossing The Bar
• Crossing The Border
• Crossing The Water
• Cross Road Blues (Crossroads)
• Crow On The Cradle
• Cu-Cu-Rru-Cu-Cu Paloma
• The Cuckoo
• Cup Of Sorrow
• Cupid
• Dance For The Nations (Round And Round We Turn)
• Dance To Tom Paine's Bones
• Dancing Queen (from MAMMA MIA!)
• Darcy Farrow
• The Dark End Of The Street
• Dark Eyed Molly
• Dark-Eyed Molly
• Dark Eyes
• Darkest Hour
• Day After Tomorrow
• Daydream
• Daydream Believer (featured in the Television Series THE MONKEES)
• Dear Abby
• Death Came A Knockin' (Travelin' Shoes)
• Deep Elem Blues
• Deep In The Darkest Night
• Defying Gravity (from the Broadway Musical WICKED)
• Dem Deer
• Diamonds and Rust
• Did You Hear John Hurt?
• Diddie Wa Diddie
• Didn't Leave Nobody But The Baby
• Diggy Liggy Lo
• Dignity
• Dimming Of The Day
• Dinah (from THE BIG BROADCAST)
• Dire Wolf
• Dives And Lazarus
• Do Wah Diddy Diddy
• Do You Believe In Magic
• Do You Hear The People Sing? (from LES MISERABLES)
• Do You Know The Way To San Jose
• Doctor, My Eyes
• Don't Be Cruel (To A Heart That's True)
• Don't Ever Let Nobody Drag Your Spirit Down
• Don't Fence Me In
• Don't Get Around Much Anymore (featured in SOPHISTICATED LADIES)
• Don't Give Your Heart To A Rambler
• Don't Know Why
• Don't Let Me Come Home A Stranger
• Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree (With Anyone Else But Me)
• Don't Stop Believin' (featured in the Twentieth Century Fox Television Series GLEE)
• Don't Think Twice, It's All Right
• Don't This Road Look Rough And Rocky
• Don't Try So Hard
• Don't Worry, Be Happy (featured in the Motion Picture COCKTAIL)
• Done Made My Vow To The Lord
• Donut Song
• Down At The Twist And Shout
• Down By The River
• Down On Grandpa's Farm
• Down On The Corner
• Down To The River To Pray
• Down Under
• Dream Angus
• Dreamland
• Dreams Of Harmony
• Drifting Too Far From The Shore
• Drive My Car
• Dry Bones
• Du, Du, Liebst Mir Im Herzen
• Duerme Negrito
• Duke Of Earl
• Early
• Early In The Morning
• Earth Angel
• Eensie Weensie Spider
• El Condor Pasa (If I Could)
• Ella's Song
• Emmylou
• Erev Shel Shoshanim
• Esa Einai (Psalm 121)
• ESPN
• Eve Of Destruction
• Every Breath You Take
• Fall Down As The Rain
• Falling
• Falling Slowly (from the Motion Picture ONCE)
• Family Tree
• Fast Car
• Father And Son
• Fathom The Bowl
• Fear An Bhata
• Feel So Near
• Ferry Me Over
• Fields Of Gold
• The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)
• Fight No More Forever
• Final Trawl
• The First Cut Is The Deepest
• Fishin' Blues
• Five Foot Two, Eyes Of Blue (Has Anybody Seen My Girl?)
• Fly Around, My Pretty Little Miss
• Fly Through My Window
• The Foggy Dew
• Folk Song Army
• Follow That Dream (from FOLLOW THAT DREAM)
• Follow That Road
• Folsom Prison Blues
• (That's What You Get) For Lovin' Me
• For Real
• For What It's Worth
• Forever Young
• Found A Peanut
• Four Green Fields
• Four Hands
• Four Nights Drunk
• 1492
• Fox On The Run
• Freedom Come All Ye
• Friend Of The Devil
• Frobisher Bay
• From A Distance
• F***in' Perfect
• Full Moon Rising
• Fun, Fun, Fun
• Galileo
• The Gambler
• Garnet's Home-Made Beer
• The Gathering Of Spirits
• Gentle Annie
• Gentle Arms Of Eden
• Gentle On My Mind
• Georgia On My Mind
• Get Back (Black, Brown And White)
• Get Up And Bar The Door
• Get Up Jack John Sit Down
• Get Up Stand Up
• The Gift Of Love
• Girl From The North Country
• Give Light
• Give Thanks To Allah
• Glad To Have A Friend Like You
• The Glory Of Love (featured in GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER)
• Go To Sleep, Lena Darling (Emmet's Lullaby)
• Go To Sleepy, Little Baby
• God Bless Us Everyone
• God Danced (The Day You Were Born)
• God's Counting On Me
• Going Up Home (To Live In Green Pastures)
• Gold Watch And Chain
• Gone To The Dogs
• Gonna Take Us All
• Good Luck John
• Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)
• Goodbye, Eliza Jane
• Goodnight, My Someone (from Meredith Willson's THE MUSIC MAN)
• Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight (Goodnight, It's Time To Go)
• The Gospel Train
• Gotta Serve Somebody
• Grandma's Feather Bed
• The Great American Bum
• Great Tom Is Cast
• Greensleeves
• Grey Cat On A Tennessee Farm
• A Groovy Kind Of Love
• Guess Things Happen That Way
• The Gum-Tree Canoe
• Hal-an-tow (Helston Furry)
• Hallelujah (featured in the DreamWorks Motion Picture SHREK)
• Hallelujah
• Hands
• Handsome Cabin Boy
• Handsome Molly
• Happy Adoption Day
• Happy Together
• A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall
• Hashivenu (Cause Us To Return)
• Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (from MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS)
• He Looked Beyond My Fault And Saw My Need
• He'll Understand And Say Well Done
• Heal My Heart
• Hear Jerusalem Moan
• Heart (from DAMN YANKEES)
• Hello Mudduh, Hello Fadduh! (A Letter From Camp)
• Hello Stranger
• Hello, Young Lovers (from THE KING AND I)
• Help Me Make It Through The Night
• Helplessly Hoping
• Henry Martin
• Here I Am, Lord
• Here Is My Home
• Hernando's Hideaway (from THE PAJAMA GAME)
• Hesitation Blues
• Hey, Good Lookin'
• Hey Jude
• Hey Little Ant
• Hey, Soul Sister
• Hey There Delilah
• Hi-Fi Stereo Color TV
• High Over The Hudson
• Hold On To God's Unchanging Hand (Hold To God's Unchanging Hand) (Tune Name: GOD'S UNCHANGING HAND)
• Hole In The Bucket
• Holy Now
• Holy Spirit Come
• Home
• Home
• Home In That Rock
• Home Is Where The Heart Is
• Homegrown Tomatoes
• Honey In The Rock
• Hopalong Peter
• Hope For One And All
• (There'll Be) A Hot Time In The Old Town Tonight
• Houses In The Fields
• How Beautiful Upon The Mountain
• How Great Thou Art
• How Long Blues (How Long, How Long Blues)
• How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)
• Howdi Do
• Huddie Ledbetter Was A Helluva Man
• Husband With No Courage In Him
• I Am A Patriot
• I Am A Pilgrim
• I Am A Rock
• I Am A Wanderer
• I Am Willing
• I And Love And You
• I Believe
• I Believe I'll Dust My Broom
• I Believe That Peace Will Come
• I Bid You Goodnight
• I Bought Me A Cat
• I Cain't Say No (from OKLAHOMA!)
• I Can See Clearly Now
• (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
• I Can't Give You Anything But Love (from BLACKBIRDS OF 1928)
• I Cannot Sleep
• I Cried
• I Don't Feel No Ways Tired
• I Don't Know How To Love Him (from JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR)
• I Don't Know Why (I Just Do)
• I Don't Want To Live On The Moon (from the Television Series SESAME STREET)
• I Dreamed A Dream (from LES MISERABLES)
• I Feel The Earth Move
• I Got A Home On That Rock
• I Got A Name (from the 20th Century Fox Film LAST AMERICAN HERO)
• I Got Rhythm (from AN AMERICAN IN PARIS)
• I Had An Old Coat (The Recycling Song)
• I Have A Million Nightingales
• I Hear A Call
• I Heard It Through The Grapevine (from MOTOWN THE MUSICAL)
• I Kissed A Girl
• I Live Not Where I Love
• I Only Want To Be With You
• I Remember Loving You
• I Saw Her Standing There
• I Saw The Light
• I Say A Little Prayer (featured in the TriStar Motion Picture MY BEST FRIEND'S WEDDING)
• I Stand For Love
• I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
• I Try
• I Walk The Line
• I Want To Die Easy
• I Want To Sing That Rock And Roll
• I Want You Back
• I Was Born About 10,000 Years Ago
• I Whistle A Happy Tune (from THE KING AND I)
• I Will
• I Will Always Love You (featured in THE BODYGUARD)
• I Will Be Your Friend
• I Will Follow You Into The Dark
• I Will Stand Fast
• I Will Survive (featured in PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT)
• I Will Wait
• I Won't Give Up
• I'd Do Anything (from the Columbia Pictures - Romulus film OLIVER!)
• I'll Be Home For Christmas
• I'll Never Fall In Love Again (from PROMISES, PROMISES)
• I'll Tell Me Ma
• I'm A Believer (featured in the DreamWorks Motion Picture SHREK)
• I'm A Freeborn Man
• I'm An Old Cowhand (From The Rio Grande)
• I'm Going To Live The Life I Sing About In My Song
• I'm Gonna Say It Now
• I'm Gonna Sit At The Welcome Table
• I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter (from AIN'T MISBEHAVIN')
• I'm Henry VIII, I Am
• I'm On My Way
• I'm Thinking Tonight Of My Blue Eyes
• I'm Yours
• I've Got What It Takes (But It Breaks My Heart To Give It Away)
• If I Fell (from A HARD DAY'S NIGHT)
• If I Had A Boat
• If I Had $1,000,000
• If I Had My Way
• If I Loved You (from CAROUSEL)
• If I Needed You
• If I Were A Blackbird
• If It Weren't For The Union
• If Not Me, Then Who
• If Not Now
• If You Could Read My Mind
• If You Go Away
• If You Say Yes
• If You Want Peace
• If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out
• If You're Looking For Freedom
• Iko Iko
• Imagine Healthcare
• In A Cabin In A Wood
• In My Bones
• In My Family's House
• In My Room
• In My Time Of Dying (Jesus Make Up My Dying Bed)
• In Spite Of Ourselves
• In The Bleak Midwinter
• In The Evening (When The Sun Goes Down)
• In The Jailhouse Now
• In The Name Of All Of Our Children
• The Indian Prayer
• Is There Anybody Here
• Is You Is, Or Is You Ain't (Ma' Baby) (from FOLLOW THE BOYS)
• Istanbul (Not Constantinople)
• It Ain't Me Babe
• It Ain't Necessarily So (from PORGY AND BESS)
• It Don't Cost Very Much
• It Had To Be You (featured in the Motion Picture WHEN HARRY MET SALLY)
• It Really Isn't Garbage Till You Throw It Away
• It's A Hard Life Wherever You Go
• It's A Long Way
• It's A Pleasure To Know You
• It's A Sin To Tell A Lie
• It's Christmas And I'm A Jew
• It's My Party
• It's No Fun When Ya Gotta Eat An Onion
• It's Nobody

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Stewart
Date: 19 Dec 14 - 03:34 PM

There seems to be large differences in lists of songs sung by song circles related to regions and when the songs were sung. I have a copy of the first song book/collection put together by Sally Ashford for the Seattle Song Circle when in began in 1977. These songs are quite different from those sung at the Seattle Song Circle today (which are largely out of Rise Up Singing). And song lists from other song circles that I have seen on the internet are very different again. That seems quite understandable as we all come from different backgrounds and were introduced to folk music at different times.

I worry about the "homogenizing" effect of widely-used song books like Rise Up Singing and Rise Again. The song list for Rise Again contains many songs that I am not familiar with, and most I gather are fairly new songs. Nothing wrong with that, there may be some good songs there, but where are the old songs that I grew up singing, and other great old songs that I continue to discover that have met the test of time. We need to keep the old songs alive!

Here is a collection of songs that I've assembled (mostly old) for use in community group singing and for a workshop on Song Collecting, which I will do at Dusty Strings in Seattle on Feb. 21, 2015.

Cheers, S. in Seattle

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: oldhippie
Date: 17 Dec 14 - 09:41 AM

Suggestions, Joe. Delete "Cats In The Cradle" and replace with another Harry Chapin song "A Better Place To Be" Adds: "Passing Through" Catie Curtis; "Gentle Arms of Eden" Dave Carter/Tracy Grammar; "Tools For The Soul" Danny Flowers; "The Trumpet Vine" Kate Wolf

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 17 Dec 14 - 04:46 AM

well, if we are looking for wonderfully singable songs about singing try The People have Songs by Miguel Heatwole as posted by freda underhill a few years back


THE PEOPLE HAVE SONGS
(Miguel Heatwole)

Here voices are tuned to each other in gladness
To all here in common affection belongs
Here joy and laughter meet keening and sadness
Here tyranny's cursed for the people have songs

Chorus:
Let us set the room ringing with the sound of our singing
When we come to the end let us hold the chord long
Hear the harmonies rise and all close our eyes
'Til the last cadence dies the people have songs

Here is war parting sweethearts
Here are strong sweating sailors
And poets for beauty who ardently long
Here are people at work singing loud at their labours
Here are marriage and drinking for the people have songs

Respect for each other gives each one a hearing
And whether the voice be uncertain or strong
We listen with love if the heart is endearing
Supported in harmony the people have songs

Disdaining oppression like others before us
Our gentleness angered by history's wrongs
Our tradition endures, and our voices in chorus
Are lifted in hope for the people have songs!

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: GUEST,henryp
Date: 16 Dec 14 - 06:14 PM

I suggest Unison in Harmony written by Jim Boyes.

It was recorded on the first CD by Coope Boyes & Simpson, Funny Old World, No Masters NMCD3, issued in 1993.

I defy you not to join in!

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 16 Dec 14 - 05:15 PM

I was part of the original song selection committee for the the Rise Again Songbook back in 1997 or so. The list was submitted to Sing Out! for compilation and publication, but nothing happened. I joined the editing team of the resurrected project late in the summer of 2014. By that time, the songs had already been chosen. There isn't much room for change in the Songlist, because there is already a waiting list of substitutes for songs that we end up not using. But as I work on the book, I keep coming across songs that ought to be there. Feel free to suggest songs below, just in case there happens to be room.

My friend Margaret Miles wrote a song called Circle of Song that is sung often in the San Francisco area. It's a wonderful description of the magic that happens when people come together to sing.

Sandy mackay suggested The Joy in Living by Steven Sellors. Faith Petric sang this song often.

Another favorite of mine: Springfield Mountain

Other suggestions?

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Genie
Date: 27 Oct 14 - 09:31 PM

Joe Offer: "Peter and Annie will tell you exactly what Genie said, "I do not think it (Rise Up Singing) was ever meant to be that kind of 'songbook.'" They've held workshops all over the U.S. over the last twenty-five years, trying to encourage people to learn the songs, and to sing with their noses out of the book.    I've been thinking, though. The people who sing that way are in the process of learning the songs, and learning to sing together. ... Should we deny them the chance to learn these songs and to learn to sing together, just because they're not "good enough" according to our standards? Give these people a break. Maybe they're not very good singers, but at least they're trying. ... "

I agree, in part. RUS can sometimes help people (not just novice singers) learn new songs.
But over-reliance can actually impede committing a song to memory, and it often does. All too often I see people's head buried in "the book" while singing "Drunken Sailor" or "Michael, Row The Boat Ashore" or some other song that's so familiar or so simple (or both) that people who don't use the book in a sing-along would learn (or remember) it pretty soon if they weren't using the book as a crutch.

Stim said, "Music responds better to leadership than about anything else, and I don't see much reason why people who know how it's done shouldn't just stand up and do it."

I think this is a place where some group leadership could be very helpful, encouraging people to sing along by listening, watching song leader, etc., as much as possible instead of 'burying' their heads in the book.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: GUEST,Stim
Date: 27 Oct 14 - 08:44 PM

Social singing, which is one the most wonderful ways of sharing that humankind ever came up with, is a custom that's almost disappeared. Most people don't know how to do it anymore. A lot of people still have that urge to raise their voices together, though. That's why they'll pick up the blue book, or any book they can find, and fumble through it and try to patch something together. And yes, it can be kind of abysmal.

The thing is, if singers just throw up their hands and walk away, things will just be sad and pathetic. Music responds better to leadership than about anything else, and I don't see much reason why people who know how it's done shouldn't just stand up and do it.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Stewart
Date: 27 Oct 14 - 11:15 AM

"Should we deny them the chance to learn these songs and to learn to sing together, just because they're not "good enough" according to our standards? Give these people a break. Maybe they're not very good singers, but at least they're trying."

The few times I've been to song circle recently affirms what I saw previously when I was more regular - people who don't make any effort to prepare for the session. When their turn comes they have no idea of what song they want to sing. They then choose a song that they don't know and everyone stumbles through with their heads in the book.

Now, not everyone in the circle is like that, but when you come to a circle I think you are obliged to prepare by choosing a few songs (three would usually do for a session) and learn those songs well enough to lead them. You don't have to completely memorize them - an occasional glance at the words is okay. But to come to the circle without any preparation is not acceptable if you want to participate with the group.

The introduction to the "old yellow songbook" Song Fest by Best & Best says it well: "Because the fires of enthusiasm kindled at a rousing songfest, roaring most heartily… can't be artificially preserved for I.O.C.A. posterity, this song book is inevitably a mere woodpile. The motley crew who haphazardly, and with occasional splurge of energy, have thrown the pile together, haven't bothered about a few knots and flaws in the grain. They've gone out of their way to select good rough logs, which haven't been cut up, dried, and neatly sorted like those you find on any standard woodpile. They've tossed the big timbers in next to the small ones, but have tried to stack them up for easy reference. You'll find some of them won't burn very easily unless you corral an expert hand to touch them off, but plenty of room has been left on the pile for wood of you own choosing. In brief, the woodpilers herewith toss you the torch – and the tip that, not withstanding a random shot of smoke-in-the-eyes, which you may get in the early stages, no fire will burn more brightly than the one you concoct yourself." The following P.S. was added: "A reward of one left-hand dungaree patch, guaranteed not to rip, run, rust, tear, split, melt, break, etc. is hereby offered for the pelt of the first bohunk caught surreptitiously using this book at a songfest."

Cheers, S. in Seattle

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Deckman
Date: 26 Oct 14 - 10:33 PM

Joe ... Your imput is very important and your points are perfectlly takes. I should not have brought up the old and personal compaint about the use of the book in a way that the authors did not intend.

I do believe that there was an unfortunate period in some of our song circles, when RUS first became the most common reference book that it somehow achieved "biblical importance." When that happened, and I witnessed it, a very large body of singers became turned off and felt shut out.

I do thank you for your hard work and I'm sure your research will help greatly to make this new edition superb. CHEERS, bob(deckman)nelson

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 26 Oct 14 - 07:32 PM

It's no accident this thread was dead for nine years, Bob (well, 7 years, 2005-2012). Editors Peter Blood and Annie Patterson submitted the list of songs for a new book to Sing Out! Magazine in 1997, and Sing Out! was supposed to produce a new book. But nothing happened. A couple of years ago, Peter and Annie signed a contract with Hal Leonard Music Publishing, and work on the book began again.

Peter and Annie will tell you exactly what Genie said, "I do not think it (Rise Up Singing) was ever meant to be that kind of 'songbook.'" They've held workshops all over the U.S. over the last twenty-five years, trying to encourage people to learn the songs, and to sing with their noses out of the book.

I've been thinking, though. The people who sing that way are in the process of learning the songs, and learning to sing together. They're not like many of us who have sung all our lives, who have a lots of songs in our heads that we can sing from memory. And they're exposing themselves to new songs that they haven't known. Should we deny them the chance to learn these songs and to learn to sing together, just because they're not "good enough" according to our standards? Give these people a break. Maybe they're not very good singers, but at least they're trying.

I think I have some 500-700 songs in my head, but many of those are kids' songs or church songs that aren't suited for singing on every occasion. So, I'm glad to have Rise Up Singing. I know most of the songs in the book, for better or for worse, and I don't have to do more than glance at the page to sing most of them.

I wanted to have input on the new songbook, and Peter Blood and Annie Patterson gave me free access. I'm a pretty good song researcher, and I intend to review every song in the book and add comments and corrections. So far, I've finished two chapters, Ballads and Old Songs and Blues. I've fully researched every one of the songs in those two chapters, and some of you have noticed some of the threads I have refreshed or started in the process. Peter and Annie are very receptive to the suggestions I've made, and they've consulted me on many matters. Next on my list is "British Invasion" songs.

Last night, though, I was researching Hebrew songs written by Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach (1925-1994), a fascinating person. I found the information Peter and Annie needed, and I learned a lot in the process.

As songbooks go, RUS is a pretty good songbook, and Peter and Annie have worked hard over the years to fix incorrect chords and lyrics that appeared in earlier editions. This time, we're hoping to make most of those corrections before the first edition appears. There are hard choices to make, though. Which version of See See Rider should be used, since there are so many versions that are so different from each other? I'm pushing for the one by Big Bill Broonzy, with a caveat added stating that there are other, very different versions from Ma Rainey, Leadbelly, Mississippi John Hurt, and Eric Burdon. I submitted a proposal for an instruction box titled "how to sing a ballad or old song," telling people that there are many versions of almost every old song, and no one is the "right" version. Peter and Annie liked my instructions box.

I'm hoping that I will have time to ensure that every song in that book will be compared with the versions you have posted at Mudcat...and Mudcat and the Digital Tradition are already a major source for many, many of the lyrics in the new book.

-Joe-

Here's the instruction box I've submitted for inclusion in the songbook:

As is the nature of Ballads and Old Songs, there are many versions of almost every song in this chapter, and in many other chapters in this book. There is no "correct" version of any traditional song, and the versions used here are certainly not intended to be the "definitive versions. For the most part, they were chosen simply because they are reasonably authentic versions that work well for group singing. When you sing a ballad or any old song, remember that the most important thing is to tell the story well. Research the many versions of a song when you learn it and listen to a number of recordings, and feel free to substitute words and verses and even melodies that work best for you. Make your presentation of the song clear and interesting and lively. Do your best to memorize the lyrics, and don't be afraid to make up a line or a verse "on the fly" if you forget. Don't be a slave to any particular version of the song - sing what works best for you. And never, never tell another singer that he/she is singing the "wrong" version of a song.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe_F
Date: 26 Oct 14 - 07:02 PM

If it were my book, it would be called "Fall Down Singing".

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Genie
Date: 26 Oct 14 - 03:25 AM

"I have much the same feelings about "the book" that I've always had. It's a very fine refernece book, but it should be left home on the reference shelf and should not be brought to hoots."

I'm with you, Bob.

I often to keep my RUS in my gig bag, but mainly as a listing of possible songs to sing and/or as a reminder of the key or maybe the overall chord progression. It is really lousy as a book to sing from—and I do not think it was ever meant to be that kind of "songbook."

That said, I do look forward to "Rise Again," because there are so many "standards" and "Ameriana" and folk songs that had to be omitted from RUS.

Genie

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Deckman
Date: 19 Oct 14 - 06:30 AM

I noticed that this very good thread has been re-vitalized again ... after NINE YEARS! I find that very interesting.

I re-read most every posting and I find that I have much the same feelings about "the book" that I've always had. It's a very fine refernece book, but it should be left home on the reference shelf and should not be brought to hoots.

As so many catters, who are more eloquant than I, have said: the presence and reliance on the book has ruined many hoots. I'll cite just one example:

In folk music, which really is oral history, the telling (singing) of the story is everything. From broadside ballads to current events, these stories must be told in all their accuracy and varients.

When any one source, such as "the book" is brought to a song session, it seriously inhibits the free flow and exchange of these tales.

I well remember a hoot I attended in Aberdeen, Washington (USA) in 1958. There were perhaps a dozen folksingers gathered before a roaring fire at the home of the late Richard Landberg. One singer started by singing "Danville Girl." This was follwed, by another singer, in the same key and without a break by "East Texas Red". This in turn was followed (again same key without a break) with yet another song of virtually the same melody and same basic theme. These songs continued for a full 25 minutes. When we had finally run out of songs that fit, we all were astounded with what we had just sung.

It's moments like this that stick in my memory.

Relying on "the book", or any book, defeats the purpose of folk music.

Just leave the book at home, where it belongs. bob(deckman)nelson

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 19 Oct 14 - 05:08 AM

Well, the book is taking shape, and I signed up as a volunteer. It's hard work, but I'm really enjoying it. In the next several months, you'll see a lot of Mudcat threads on songs in the new book.

Click here for more information on the new Rise Again Group Singing Songbook.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 15 Dec 13 - 08:41 PM

I am so excited! I have waited for this for a long time and still won't hold my breath, but I'm glad the book has reached this stage, and I still can't wait to buy it!

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe_F
Date: 15 Dec 13 - 08:20 PM

As is well known, the world has passed me by. Most of the songs on the list, I've never heard of. Very little overlap with the 800 or so I've so far put in my own Magical book. (The thing now requires a backpack. I am seriously thinking of moving to a tablet.)

There are a few I am glad to see noticed. I am also glad to see a little more tolerance for naughtiness than in RUS.

Still no "Battle Hymn of the Republic", tho! And no "St Louis Blues"! I suppose there is too much Bad Taste in them.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II: 'Rise Again'
From: Joe Offer
Date: 14 Dec 13 - 09:39 PM

Peter Blood and Annie Patterson have released the song list for their soon-to-come second volume of the Rise Up Singing songbook, Rise Again. The new book is tentatively scheduled for release by Hal Leonard Music in Spring 2015. Format will be the same as in Rise Up Singing but all songs are new. For me, it's a list of a lot of new songs to learn, since I sing with groups that use these songbooks. I try to get people to actually learn these songs, so they don't sing with their noses buried in books.
Some of these songs, I'll never sing - but there are a lot of wonderful songs on the list, and I'm looking forward to the publication of this new songbook.
Here's the song list: http://www.quakersong.org/ra_chap_songlist/index.php

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Joe_F
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 06:27 PM

A compromise reached by some groups that I sing with is that the leader (the person who calls the song) may use RUS or another crib (often, these days, electronic), and the rest should keep their heads up & sing as much as they know -- typically, no more than the chorus. That allows those who are getting on in years to avoid letting their forgetfulness disrupt the flow.

If possible (usually it is not), sitting around a table makes it less conspicuous who is glancing at a text, and eases conviviality in other ways.

I do not often use RUS these days, and I have not bought into any of the iThingies, but I have used my computer & copier to make specialized crib books for pub sings, filk sings, and general sings.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Genie
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 05:53 PM

Bill D, I agree that for the new book - any book - the request should be for accurate lyrics (and chords).
One problem is that lyrics often vary from one singer or recording to another. That's especially true of traditional or other old folk songs, but it's also true of songs covered by different singers or even for different recordings/performances of the same song by the person who wrote it. Then there's the frequent situation where the "official" lyrics printed in the CD liner notes or a songbook are different in places from what's sung on the recording.

That said, some additional proofreading would be appreciated, as well as some actual research into the correct (or preferred or most common) lyrics and chords, rather than just relying on one's memory.

I think Rise Up Singing is a very valuable reference tool, usually pretty reliable as to who wrote a song and when, etc., even if not always quite as reliable for lyrics & chords.   I just don't think its design/formatting makes it very useful as a "hymnal," much less a lyrics & chords sheet.

I think that groups that want to use RUS - or any other song book - might have a better group singing experience if participants were encouraged to pick out some of the more often requested songs from the book and learn those songs so they don't have to keep their heads buried in the books.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 05:05 PM

Sandy Paton once told me that a RUS-wielding member of an audience once yelled (literally) that he was singing a song wrong---one that he had collected.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Genie
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 02:44 PM

Dick, I too get annoyed when people sing a song/line obviously wrong - when their common sense or familiarity with the song would tell them it was wrong - because they have their head buried in RUS (or a lyric sheet with a typo).   And I've seen people in song circles bury their heads in books while singing the refrain of "What shall we do with a drunken sailor?" Oy!

I do think, though, that sometimes song circles - especially singalongs - can be and have been enhanced by the group having access to lyrics for songs that are new to them (and don't have simple choruses) or that they sort of 'know' but only part of the lyrics.    I do like group singing, especially when the group adds harmony, and sometimes the only way to bring that about, without sticking to the same old uber-familiar songs, is to have a book or lyric sheet available.

I do wish, though, that in groups that use RUS (or another book), people would not react with hostility or chagrin if you point out a glaring error in the lyrics to a song (or to where RUS has changed the lyrics to make them more "politically correct").   I don't think the rule should be that the group has to sing the wrong lyrics or use wrong (or less interesting) chords just because that's what's printed in the book.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 11:43 AM

While I personally dislike people singing from books, that's not the main problem with the folks that use RUS. The "Blue Book" has somehow gained the status of being an authority as well as being a crutch. I've attended (once each)sings where book-wielding participants would angrily proclaim "you're singing it wrong!"; I've seen people who insisted on announcing the page number for songs like "I've been working on the railroad", and people, who, when asked what key they wanted an accompianist to play in, looked it up in the book. I've seen several good singing groups effectively ruined by overuse of RUS; I've never seen one that was improved by it.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: mg
Date: 15 Dec 12 - 03:14 AM

I think there needs to be some at least suggestions for new people wanting to use the book in an establsihed group..this is futile because I think almost any established group in us and perhaps cn has been taken over..

But if you find a virgin group, ask what the preference is for the books. If you don't see books, except for the personal use of the singer, assume that they might not want to use this particular book. In fact, some (including me) passionately do not want to use it. The sound of the music that is produced can go from wonderful to deadly in a few sessions. Or in an evening.

If it is a group that is set up with the intent of using this book, go for it. Enjoy it with enthusiasm. If you want to set up a group, do it however you like it. If you prefer the book, don't let people who prefer not the book talk you out of it.   It is your group.

The problem is people coming into established groups that have gone on for years and imposing the books. I mean bringing extra copies and standing there insisting you take one. If someone says no thank you, move on.

Same with camps. They are about my only form of music these days. I do not want to drive 200 miles, or more likely, mooch a ride with David, and sit through hours of those books under glaring flourescent lights in an endless circle. If I and others leave the group, it is because we want to do something else. There should always be a default room for the book likers, who also tend to like the flourescent lights I have noticed. If you want to sing out of the book, stay in that room. If you want to join others, who are not using the books, join them but don't use the books. You do not have the moral high ground. I do not have the moral high ground by insisting on joining a quilting group that has been around for years and not quilting the way they have developed. I do not expect every baseball team to let me play at my level when they are at a different level. This never means no one gets to sing. There is lots of singing, choruses, sing along on songs oyou know, hum along. This is in the late night sessions at the camps...sometimes leaders emerge..let them..sing along but don't demand equal turns. That messes up the flow of the music. Taking turns messes up the flow. I am not talking about every song circle every places, I am talking about what I seek out in terms of music, and what others do as well. There should always be a default option of some nice room to sing with the books (Sunnycamp being the exception because there is only one building)...but don't impose them on people who don't like them.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 11:40 PM

From i-phones? (makes sign to ward off Devil).    Oh, c'mon.

Yeah, I know--just one more labor-saving device.    They could save even more labor by staying home and playing their i-phones to themselves.   Then they'd have an appreciative audience.


Looks like pretty much all "folk" singing may soon have to be by invitation only.

As they say, not the end of the world---but you can see it from there.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: mg
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 10:58 PM

What I have seen is not just people using iphones for lyrics, but actually using it as their turn..playing something from the iphone...

Think all this through before it comes to your town. I have pretty much given up though.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: JohnB
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 10:50 PM

I agree with all the comments to a greater or lesser degree.
I have ONE vain hope though, in these days of technology, I DO hope that they do not come out with the iphone version of RUS. I have seen too many doing that already.
JohnB

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 12:47 AM

I think it was Dani.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 14 Dec 12 - 12:13 AM

Thanks, Janie. By the way I did certainly enjoy singing and playing with you at the Peace Cabin this year--and I still think your duet of several years ago on There'll Be No Church Tonight--can't remember your partner, though I can see her--- was a major highlight of that Getaway--especially since I'd never heard the song before and you guys did a delightful rendition.


I do try to support all other music-makers as much as I can. I especially enjoy singing harmony or playing harmony--just being part of the ensemble.   I love to try to help out anyone musically--as long as the person is not singing out of RUS. Making music as a group is endlessly satisfying--and it can easily be done without RUS.

It's just that the use of the book in question has been extremely deleterious to many open sings and similar occasions.    And I care too much about music to let that go. I suppose it's part of being a music addict.

It's certainly true that Joe is also endlessly helpful and supportive in any number of ways.
It's ironic that we seem to have this one little point of friction. I suppose it's possible he and I will have to agree to disagree.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Janie
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 10:32 PM

What strikes me about these conversations and debates, including the current dialog between you, Ron and Joe, is how your different experiences have colored your reactions to people using RUS.

I don't have a lot of experience with "sings" and "song circles." Most of my singing has been singing alone on the front porch, late at night.

It kinda tickles me to read the dialog between the two of you. My experience of both of you is based solely on about 10 years of that remarkably musically intimate weekend of the Getaway. I experience both of you as supportive, inclusive and egalitarian, and experience both of you as delighting in the participatory experience.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: artbrooks
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 09:56 PM

As has been already said, this topic has been dragged around almost as many times as "what is folk music". IMHO, it depends a lot on what you choose to call a sing. Going around a large circle while each person does the song of his/her choice, while the others there - mostly also experienced (if not 'good') singers - sing along with the choruses or the whole song is wonderful...and I envy you people on the watery sides of the country who have that opportunity (this is why we try to get to the Getaway every couple of years). On the other hand, some places are lucky to be able to get eight or ten people together who want to sing, much less who know all the words or are able to carry a tune. This is the crowd that RUS was designed for - and 75% of those who attend the song-circle here would be mute without it.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 09:11 PM

Joe--

"condescending"--I think you are being supersensitive.   Nobody is trying to imply you can't sing. I think you're a fine singer and I'm glad you have self-confidence as a singer--that's what it's all about. Everybody gets nervous singing in front of a group. I sure do. No problem there.

And using a "cheat sheet" is fine as far as I'm concerned--as I've noted more than once.

But the Blue Book of Death at a sing is not OK. That's the topic here--and that's my only point.

If all singers would keep RUS at home and not bring it to sings, all friction on this point would vanish. There'd be peace on earth--or something like that.

IF

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Joe Offer
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 08:55 PM

Well, Ron, maybe I find your attitude condescending because actually I think I'm a pretty darn good singer. This week I'm doing 11 Christmas carol gigs at nursing homes - all from memory - and the people love it. The songs I sing from memory are mostly camp songs, church songs, carols, and pop stuff. I sing gospel anywhere, because it's fun - but I don't sing the religious songs that mean something to me, when I'm outside a religious context. I don't think that's appropriate. And camp songs are fun, but one can't do a steady diet of camp songs.

I like to try new songs - and I find I learn songs best by performing them. I'd rather not flub the words, so I keep a "cheat sheet" at hand - but I do know songs quite well before I perform them. Just not well enough to feel comfortable without a lyrics sheet. And yes, I know most of the songs in Rise Up Singing very well, and I like to sing them when it's appropriate. If I don't have a crib sheet, sometimes I just flip a finger and the condescending folks and sing out of the blue book.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 07:57 PM

Hey i got lucky 77!    77 Sunset Strip---you'll see the highbrows and the hipsters....Now that was a great theme song.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 07:54 PM

"his or her own songs" i.e. songs he or she likes to sing.   I actually hope the person has not personally written all the songs--unless perhaps it's Randy Newman or John Prine.    But when either of these come to an open sing they are welcome to sing only their own songs.   For some reason they don't usually seem to bring a book to sing from.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 07:50 PM

Joe, we've been over this before--even on this thread.    Those of us who criticize the use of RUS in singarounds do not say users of books should not sing.   That's a straw man.

My gripe, for instance is only with RUS as a crutch--only that particular book. I would say that any book the singer has actually put together personally of his or her own songs--or just a piece of paper-- is just fine.    The likelihood of somebody who has put such a book together knowing the song well enough to put it across convincingly is quite high.   The likelihood of somebody---who has spent $14.95 or whatever RUS costs and brought RUS to the sing--knowing the song is hugely less.    RUS just makes it too easy to never really learn a song.    That's why it's a good resource, among many----and should be left at home.

It's possible that you may even consider yourself a non-singer.   That's selling yourself short. I've heard you sing songs--with no paper at all in front of you.   It was great. For so many people it's just a matter of confidence.

I can't speak for all, of course, but for me RUS is far, far worse than any other aid at a session. It is the most likely aid of all; there is likely to be more than one of that book, and it just makes it too bloody easy to avoid ever learning a song--gee, is there an echo here? Not only that but with the number of verses often printed for a song, the rest of us must listen while the "leader" stumbles through every blessed one in the book--even if said "leader" has never seen some of the verses before. That is the opposite of a satisfying musical experience.

Again, I can't speak for all but I have unlimited empathy for somebody who considers himself or herself to be a non-singer actually trying to get through a song without RUS--forgetting words, leaving out verses, radically changing the tune, etc.   That person has made an effort.    I have zero sympathy for anybody who uses RUS at a sing--that shows no effort whatsoever.

And it seems crazy that everybody should insist on singing every word of every song--another excuse for using RUS, AKA the Blue Book of Death, at a sing..   i love to sing, but i'm completely fine with listening to somebody else sing verses, and just joining in the chorus. If there is no chorus, that puts a huge burden on the singer to keep the interest of the listeners--so in general I don't sing ballads--none without refrains. Also if you want a sense of collaborative music-making, a chorus or refrain can virtually always give that---you don't need to sing every word.

I will even leave a sing if RUS is used--it's just that visceral.    And I think i'm not alone.

I in fact have left our local open sing for that reason--years ago.   And not regretted it.   I go to jams and music parties.    Nobody would even consider bringing that book to such an event.   I am a huge and hopeless music addict.   There are far too many opportunities for great music-making--of any number of types of music-- to spend time in a RUS session.   Only if there are great non-musical benefits to staying at a RUS session will I be there--and hoping the RUS portion of the program ends ASAP.

Consider for instance how many times RUS was used in the Peace Cabin this year---i believe it was zero.

If anybody wants "community sings" and requires that book, then fine.   Such a sing is the opposite of a jam or music party.   And those of us who feel that way will therefore go to the jams and parties--only.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Leadfingers
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 06:56 PM

No Argument with any of you !! Ron , Stewart and Joe . No problem with a new song needing a reminder at all , but DONT hold the words between you and the Audience.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Joe Offer
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 04:29 PM

Well, I have to admit that when I was a Cubmaster, I fought hard against the Den Mothers who wanted printed lyrics sheets for campfires - and I never gave in and allowed them - but t campfires, I was there to teach the kids what I wanted them to sing, and teaching and learning was part of the process.

On the other hand, I've been a choir singer since fifth grade, so I use hymnals a lot - even though I rarely look at them. Still, I have to sing a song twenty times before I even begin to be able to sing it by memory, and I'm often expected to sing new pieces I've sung fewer than five times.

We use Rise Up Singing at the Sacramento Song Circle, and I'm often the only one not looking at the book. I know those songs well, but I keep the book on the floor in front of me so I can look to see the first word of a verse, and the like.

My opinion is, that the people whose use of a songbook is annoying, are people that are not very good singers. It doesn't have anything to do with whether they use a book or not - it's just that inexperienced singers tend to need books as "crutches." So...I think what the book-bashers are saying is that people who aren't at the bashers' level of accomplishment, shouldn't sing.

I don't buy it. It's a damn snooty attitude. I think everybody should be encouraged to sing - and it they need to sing from a book, so be it.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Stewart
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 03:47 PM

One of my first song books was Song Fest, by Dick and Beth Best, published by the Intercollegiate Outing Club Assoc. (I.O.C.A.) in 1954. The preface to the original collection had some interesting words of wisdom: "Because the fires of enthusiasm kindled at a rousing songfest, roaring most heartily… can't be artificially preserved for I.O.C.A. posterity, this song book is inevitably a mere woodpile. The motley crew who haphazardly, and with occasional splurge of energy, have thrown the pile together, haven't bothered about a few knots and flaws in the grain. They've gone out of their way to select good rough logs, which haven't been cut up, dried, and neatly sorted like those you find on any standard woodpile. They've tossed the big timbers in next to the small ones, but have tried to stack them up for easy reference. You'll find some of them won't burn very easily unless you corral an expert hand to touch them off, but plenty of room has been left on the pile for wood of you own choosing. In brief, the woodpilers herewith toss you the torch – and the tip that, not withstanding a random shot of smoke-in-the-eyes, which you may get in the early stages, no fire will burn more brightly than the one you concoct yourself." The following P.S. was added: "A reward of one left-hand dungaree patch, guaranteed not to rip, run, rust, tear, split, melt, break, etc. is hereby offered for the pelt of the first bohunk caught surreptiously using this book at a songfest."

Cheers, S. in Seattle

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Ron Davies
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 01:27 PM

Ah, but memorizing lyrics requires some work.

And it means making that a priority.

Much easier, in this labor-saving age, to just open the book and sing the 2nd from the bottom on page 34.

Never mind that actually memorizing a song gives a sense of accomplishment--and another friend for life.   Much more important to save time and effort.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Leadfingers
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 01:23 PM

My MAIN concern with people using ANY song book , wether RUS or their own note book is the way SOME people hold the book in front of them , so they are singing AT the bloody book and not to the audience .
And I still believe you cant do a song justice unless you KNOW the song WELL !!

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Stringsinger
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 11:50 AM

Glad that the typeface is larger. We were calling the book "rise up squinting".
If at all possible, it's important to memorize the words of the song that you are doing especially in a group setting to that your nose isn't in a book but aware of the people
around you.

There should be a book on how to memorize song lyrics.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Joe Offer
Date: 13 Dec 12 - 12:03 AM

Right, Bill - but now they can get the lyrics from Mudcat ;-)

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Bill D
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 09:58 PM

I don't see a request for accurate lyrics. That was a major problem with book 1... glaring errors.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 08:47 PM

I look forward to buying it.

Subject: RE: Rise Up Singing Book II
From: Joe Offer
Date: 12 Dec 12 - 03:04 AM

Well, finally it looks like we will have a new book - in a couple of years. Peter Blood and Annie Patterson gave up on getting Sing Out! Magazine to publish a second Rise Up Singing, and they've signed a contract with Hal Leonard. Here's an e-mail from Peter Blood, dated 7 Dec 2012 (posted with permission):

Hi Joe!
Many of you have been asking us for years: when is the new songbook coming out? Well, we finally have some good news: we just signed a contract with Hal Leonard (which already distributes RUS to music stores) to do a new book with 1200 new songs for those who use & love Rise Up Singing!

We hope all of you will help us revisit the list we put together nearly 15 (OMG) years ago for another book. We attach a list of "criteria" to keep in mind in sending in suggestions.


In other news:

1. We are in the process of building a new website. It will be regularly updated with information about the new book as well as serve as a common ground space for people committed to grassroots participatory song in the tradition of Pete Seeger & Rise Up Singing. We are looking for a web developer to help us with this major project. Stay tuned. We'll let you know when it launches.

2. We are offering a holiday sale this year on our current website http://www.quakersong.org/ - free shipping on all orders & 20% off all orders of 5 or more CDs between now and January 6th. Help us clear out some inventory and raise money to help support us in the next two years of intense work bringing out the new book! If you can let the singalong folk in your area know about this we would appreciate it.

Please let us know if you need any changes to the notice for your singalong group at http://www.quakersong.org/singalongs/. Thanks for all you are doing to keep people singing!!
In song,
Annie & Peter

And an attachment:

Announcing a new songbook
by Annie Patterson & Peter Blood
(the creators of Rise Up Singing)
Rise Up Singing has helped create a singing movement around the world far beyond what we dreamed was possible when we first created it in 1988. Over the years it has become a beloved and valued resource for hundreds of thousands of music lovers and has helped people in many walks of life realize that their voices matter. We are proud of the journey that this grassroots songbook has taken over the years. Its success wouldn't have been possible without the help of so many friends who have either been there from the beginning or who have joined in along the way. Today, people sing together on a regular basis using our songbook as a resource in each other's homes & places of worship, libraries & community centers around the world. We feel grateful & humbled that our songbook has played a significant role in what Pete Seeger has called a quiet singing revolution in this new century.
Over the years songbook fans have often asked us: "When are you going to make another songbook with 1200 new songs for Rise Up Singing lovers?" The answer is…drum role, please…"NOW!" It's official. We just signed a contract with Hal Leonard Music and the work on the new book has begun.
You can help us make this new songbook just as great as the original book. We want you to help us identify your favorite songs that are not in RUS.
When we created RUS our years of songleading experience gave us a clear concept of the kinds of songs that would and wouldn't work well in the book. This time, we have a similar vision but will include more genres, different themes, and especially seek to include songs that are familiar and loved by young people today. If you want to send us your suggestions, please pay close attention to the following important guidelines and, above all, have fun!
Much love & thanks ~ Annie & Peter
What are the songs that:
•        You always thought should have been in RUS? ("How did that one get left out?!")
•        Are among the greatest easily singable RUS-type songs written in the past 30 years?
•        Are often requested or you wish you could lead when you get together to sing with others?
•        Are right "on the lips" of you & your friends?
•        You've been dying to get words & chords for to sing with family & friends?
If you want to send us a list, PLEASE include along with each song the following:
1) A way we can try out the song easily:
•        An email link to a Youtube video for the song (preferably one of good audio quality & by the song's composer or at least a well-known performer)
•        An emailed mp3 file
•        Mailing us a disc burned from your i-tune and CD collections, along with list
•        CDs that include one or more song recommendations
You can also cite a Sing Out! issue in which a song appears or copy the song from a leadsheet or songbook, but this is not the best method as it's harder to get a quick feel for the song from a leadsheet than an audio recording.
2) Background information you have about the song, (e.g. composer(s), artists who have recorded it, etc.)
3) Any evidence for including the song you can offer, such as its being widely "covered" by other artists, often sung in your circle of friends, requested at parties / singalongs, "known by all my friends", etc.

Selection Criteria.

We're looking for songs that:
1. Have easy-to-remember tunes (where you can sing the song successfully with just the lyrics & chords). Some factors that contribute to this "sing-ability" are:
•        Consistent musical structure (e.g. the melody repeats in a pattern of verses & choruses)
•        Steady, clearly defined rhythm
•        Relatively simple "catchy" melody
•        Easy and catchy chorus that has the same structure and lyrics each time
Good examples are:   This Land Is Your Land, With a Little Help from My Friends, If I Had a Hammer, O What a Beautiful Morning, Michael Row the Boat Ashore, Over the Rainbow.
2. Are not too difficult for your average "lay" singer & guitar player to pull off
•        Relatively easy chords
•        Not too wide a vocal range (e.g. more than an about 10 steps or an octave & a half)
3. Lend themselves well to group singing – e,g, songs that are
•        Used by songleaders that like to lead their audiences in songs
•        Not primarily "performance" (as opposed to participatory) type songs
•        Ones where audiences often join in when the song is performed
•        Not too lengthy (Turning Towards the Morning & I Wanna Be an Engineer are very long)
4. Are widely known - e.g. songs that
•        Were written or recorded by well-known musicians
•        Are frequently "covered" by other musicians (at performances, on CDs)
•        Appear in many songbooks (e.g. in collections of best-known songs of that particular genre)
•        Are often sung by people you know


Once again: We are very interested in songs from genres that were weakly represented in RUS – Examples include well-known, singable standards from country music, blues, bluegrass, jazz, "rock & roll", drinking songs, bawdy songs, and contemporary and African-American gospel. And we're especially looking for songs that are well-known and loved by young people under 30!



Send email submissions to: [e-mail]   or [e-mail]   
(Please include "song suggestions " in the subject line.)

If you want to mail us burn discs or other "hard" items, send them to:
Annie Patterson & Peter Blood
42 Jenks Street
Amherst MA 01002