American Roots Music

Joy Harjo: Insomnia and Seven Steps to Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Format: CD, Album, & Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2026
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Poetry, & Indigenous
[Tracklist]
[Credits] 01 Insomnia and Seven Steps to Grace (6:12)
02 Rabbit Is Up to Tricks (4:23)
03 I Pray for My Enemies (2:01)
04 Fear Redux (4:15)
05 Without (4:16)
06 Mahk Jchi 2026 (3:09)
07 Instinct (2:00)
08 My Guy (2:18)
09 Perhaps the World Ends Here (1:42)
10 Stomp All Night (6:11)
11 I Am a Prayer (6:55)
12 In the Beautiful Perfume and Stink of the World (4:32)
13 Goodbye Pork Pie Hat (3:10)
[Credits]
Producer and Arranger: esperanza spalding, Producer and Liner Notes: Joy Harjo, Liner Notes Editor: Carla Borden, Arranger: Justin Tyson, Designer: Caroline Gut, Photographer: Graham Tolber, Engineer: Gary Laney, Mike Prado , Fernando Lodeiro, and Oscar Zambrano
[Notes]
As a poet and musician, Joy Harjo channels a creative force she describes as a “vibration of love” to connect countless traditions and artforms, countering the despair and heartache caused by power and hate. Insomnia and Seven Steps to Grace, her debut for Smithsonian Folkways, draws on the long-intertwined rhythms of jazz and poetry, the power of improvisation and self-expression through sound, and the vitality of Native culture and spirituality to spark a chain of vibrational energy to engulf the whole world. Harjo’s voice is bold and direct, supported by producer and bass player esperanza spalding, covering a repertoire that includes a jazz standard, a song written by Harjo’s mother and uncovered by her sister, and many originals that speak to contemporary issues and her life as one of the most celebrated American poets of the last century.

Alison Krauss & Union Station – Arcadia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Down The Road Records – DTR0018

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: March 28, 2025
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Bluegrass
[Tracklist]
A1 Looks Like The End Of The Road (3:39)
A2 The Hangman (3:37)
$3 The Wrong Way (3:35)
A4 Granite Mills (3:40)
A5 One Ray Of Shine (4:03)
B1 Richmond On The James (3:27)
B2 North Side Gal (2:36)
B3 Forever (3:40)
B4 Snow (3:23)
B5 There's A Light Up Ahead (4:14)
[Musician]
Alison Krauss (lead vocals, fiddle, harmony vocals) Barry Bales (upright bass, tenor vocals, bass vocals) Jerry Douglas (dobro, lap steel guitar) Ron Block (acoustic guitar, banjo, tenor vocals) Russell Moore (lead vocals, baritone vocals) Dan Tyminski (acoustic guitar, mandolin) Viktor Krauss (piano) Jeff Taylor (accordion) Adam Steffey (mandolin) Stuart Duncan (fiddle)
[Engineer]
Brad Blackwood (mastering) Gary Paczosa (mixing)
[Notes]
Fiddler and singer Alison Krauss has followed a two-track career path: One marks her longtime association with Union Station, her backing band since 1990, and the other, her solo career as a mainstream country artist. Arcadia marks the first time she's recorded with Union Station in 14 years. The band includes her violin alongside Jerry Douglas's dobro, Barry Bales' bass playing, and Ron Block's banjo (all sing). Guitarist/mandolinist Dan Tyminski announced his solo career after completing this album. He is replaced by IIIrd Tyme Out frontman/guitarist Russell Moore who, in addition to his lead and baritone harmony singing, will assume guitar duties from here on in. The ten-track program includes songs Krauss collected during the band's hiatus. The first one she chose, Jeremy Lister's "The End of the Road," opens the album and sets its tone with a dark tale of despair and disillusionment. All but two tracks here are written in a minor key by a variety of composers with lyrics underscoring heartbreak, change, hardship, historic tragedy, and more. Krauss' brother Viktor Krauss (who also contributes piano here) composed the foreboding "The Hangman," set to a poem by Maurice Ogden. It's driven by banjo, piano, and arco bass with an affecting, lonesome vocal by Moore. There's a dreamy tinge to Tyminski's and Robert Lee Castleman's "Wrong Way" -- it's a piercing midtempo ballad with dobro as the engine buoying Krauss's heartbreaking vocal. Moore claims the lead on the traditional "Granite Mills" with the strings arranged by Krauss. It's a ballad based on an 1874 mill fire in Massachusetts that winds through Celtic folk and driving, atmospheric bluegrass. "Richmond on the James" is a Civil War-era tune introduced by an intricate mandolin pulse that's eventually commandeered by banjo as Krauss delivers chugging fiddle stops as an additional rhythm under the bass. Douglas delivers winding, unruly chords before Krauss' solo. Her brother co-wrote "One Ray of Shine" with Saras Siskind, featuring mandolin by Adam Steffey. A moody ballad, it relates the tale of a reclusive protagonist who prefers the tree in her yard to people and yearns for a single ray of sunshine. JD McPherson's "North Side Girl" also features Moore in an old-timey, swinging country-blues with killer dobro work, keening fiddle, and interlocking mandolin. He claims authority with his expressive, empathetic, and resonant instrument. Castleman's "Forever" is a paean to a beloved on the occasion of their parting. Douglas gets reverb all over his dobro as Krauss' fiddle answers with passion. Moore is upfront on "Snow," a high lonesome bluegrass stomper with amazing fiddle, dobro, and banjo work. The album's other bookend, the gorgeous, languid "A Light Up Ahead" is also by Lister. Krauss' gentle yet commanding croon delivers a glimmer of hope atop dobro and guitar before the bass enters for Douglas' and Tyminski's solos. Arcadia is a long-awaited return for Krauss and Union Station; here they reframe American traditional music in a context informed by modern production aesthetics, yet still sound kinetic and completely organic.(Review by Thom Jurek)

Kronos Quartet: Glorious Mahalia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways - SFW CD 40268

Format: Vinyl, LP, CD, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2026
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Gospel
[Tracklist]
01 Glorious Mahalia: I. Hold on (03:03)
02 Glorious Mahalia: II. Stave in the ground (06:47)
03 Glorious Mahalia: III. Are you being treated right (04:48)
04 Glorious Mahalia: IV. Sometime I feel like a motherless child (03:33)
05 Glorious Mahalia: V. This world will make you think (03:12)
06 God Shall Wipe All Tears Away (03:04)
07 Peace Be Till: I. Doors of Justice / Black Thread (06:23)
08 Peace Be Till: II. Protest (04:15)
09 Peace Be Till: III. Copter (03:07)
10 Peace Be Till: IV. Symphony of Social Justice (07:55)
11 Peace Be Till: V. Tell 'em about the dream (04:34)
[Credits]
Producer: Reshena Liao, Liner Notes Editor: Carla Borden, Designer: Caroline Gut, Engineer: Scott Fraser, and Kronos Quartet
[Notes]
Midway through Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic speech at the 1963 March on Washington, a voice rang out from behind him: “Tell them about the dream, Martin!” That voice belonged to Mahalia Jackson, King’s close friend and one of the most revered gospel singers of the 20th century. Glorious Mahalia, a visionary tribute to Jackson’s life by the internationally renowned Kronos Quartet, uses that moment as a springboard to explore the depth of Jackson’s musical craft and its impact on the Civil Rights Movement, including her relationship with Clarence Jones and Studs Terkel, other luminaries of the time. Featuring compositions by Stacy Garrop and Zachary James Watkins, a new arrangement of Jackson’s astonishing version of the Antonio Haskell composition “God Shall Wipe All Tears Away,” and archival audio of Jackson’s voice, the album illuminates Jackson’s historic artistry and advocac

Little Folkies: Songs for Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways - SFW CD 45089

Format: CD, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2026
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Children's
[Tracklist]
01 Little Grey Squirrel (03:07)
02 See the Little Spider (01:21)
03 Rocketship (01:39)
04 Look at the Colors (02:35)
05 Cooking in the Kitchen (01:39)
06 Sally Go Round the Sunshine (00:43)
07 Wise Old Owl (04:28)
08 Up and Down (01:00)
09 Clouds Clouds (01:41)
10 Planets (03:09)
11 When We Go Outside (02:55)
12 Listen to the Train (02:38)
13 Come Dance Around (01:35)
14 The Wind Blow East (01:49)
15 There Was a Little Mouse (00:32)
16 Horses in the Stable (02:18)
17 Family Band (01:58)
18 The Tiny Little Tadpole (03:38)
19 Dinosaur Song (02:43)
20I Put on My Pants (01:15)
21 Oh If I Were (03:02)
22 I Had a Rooster (02:58)
23 Little Roly Poly (02:35)
24 Riding in the Buggy, Miss Mary Jane (02:21)
25 Shake and Twist (02:08)
26 See the Horses (02:56)
27 Ten Little Fingers (01:31)
28 Walk Along, John (01:30)
29 Clap Your Hands My Darling (01:41)
30 Jenny Jenkins (04:26)
31 Go to Sleep (02:51)
32 If I Had Wings (03:33)
33 There Was a Tiny Seed (02:28)
34 Green Grass Grew (03:52)
35 Fuzzy Caterpillar (01:18)
36 Beehive (02:01)
37 Bubbles (01:33)
38 Polly (02:40)
39 Cowboy Song (01:17)
40 Five Little Birds (01:58)
41 I Wish I Were a Bumblebee (00:58)
42 Down on the Pond (02:03)
43 All by Myself (02:30)
44 Going for a Car Ride (01:24)
45 Sheep's Wool (01:56)
46 Bought Me a Cat (02:49)
47 Two Little Birds Came Flying (03:26)
48 Little Bird, Little Bird (01:35)
49 Rock My Boat (01:55)
50 Hop Old Squirrel (01:34)
51 What'll We Do with the Baby (01:53)
52 Lula Gal (01:29)
53 Chugga Lugga Lugg (Train a Comin')
(02:37)
54 Swim Swimmy Swim (01:37)
55 Toodala (01:30)
56 Knees and Toes (00:48)
57 Walking Down the Road (01:39)
58 Ki-Me-O (Froggy Went a Courtin')
(01:56)
59 Mole in the Ground (02:20)
60 Mary Wore Her Red Dress (01:56)
61 Bunny Rabbit (00:51)
62 Let's Go A-Flying (01:33)
63 Sailing in the Boat (02:06)
64 Shady Grove (01:56)
[Credits]
Producer, Recorder, Mixing Engineer: Irena Eide, Illustrator: Amelia Heron, Designer: Pharis Romero, Liner Notes Editor: James Deutsch, Carla Borden, Jen Mellizo, Jacob Love, Recorder: Robert Cheek, Jeremy D'Antonio, Mark Allen Piccolo, Mastering Engineer: Dirk Powel
[Notes]
Little Folkies is a multi-award-winning, early-childhood folk music program developed by acclaimed musician Irena Eide that features a joyful treasury of original and traditional folk songs to inspire singing and movement. The songs collected on this 4-CD set are the cornerstone of the (repertoire, with one volume dedicated to each of the year’s four seasons. Each CD is accompanied by a songbook with printed sheet music, encouraging parents, teachers, caregivers, and kids from infancy through early elementary school to sing and play along with the charming, engaging songs about furry critters, outer space, daily routines, and more. Whether listened to at home, in the classroom, outdoors, or on the move, (encourages sharing and discovery, and nurtures everyone’s love of music and play. Recommended for children ages 0-5.

A Treasury of Civil War Songs Sung by Tom Glazer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings - SFW CD 40187

Series: African American Legacy Recordings
Format: CD, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2011
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Historical Song
[Tracklist]
01 John Brown's Body (02:09)
02 Battle Hymn of the Republic (03:04)
03 Dixie (01:48)
04 Maryland, My Maryland (03:04)
05 The Yellow Rose of Texas (02:07)
06 The Bonnie Blue Flag (01:34)
07 Upidee (02:19)
08 Goober Peas (01:59)
09 All Quiet along the Potomac (02:47)
10 Tenting on the Old Camp Ground (02:50)
11 The Battle Cry of Freedom (02:11)
12 Wait for the Wagon (02:27)
13 We Are Coming Father Abram (02:14)
14 The Arms of Abraham (01:35)
15 Just before the Battle, Mother (03:58)
16 Tramp, Tramp, Tramp (02:08)
17 The Year of Jubilo (Kingdom Coming) (01:46)
18 Wake, Nicodemus (02:45)
19 Marching through Georgia (02:00)
20 When Johnny Comes Marching Home (01:23)
21 General Patterson (01:37)
22 The Cumberland Gap (01:50)
23 Somebody's Darling (03:42)
24 The Conquered Banner (02:32)
25 The President’s Grave (02:32)
[Credits]
Liner Notes: Patrick Warfield, Audio Restoration and Mastering Engineer: Pete Reiniger
[Notes]
Songs with a good tune and rousing lyrics both mirrored and inspired the events of the American Civil War (1861-1865). They told tales of battle, slavery, emancipation, victory, and defeat, and a century and a half later, they enshrine the shattered brotherhood of a nation and the lessons taught by war. Popular American folksinger Tom Glazer (1914-2003) knew a good tune when he heard one, and in "A Treasury of Civil War Songs", Glazer's crystal clear voice spins out classic songs that made history, while historian Patrick Warfield’s liner notes take us deeper into the history that made the songs. 58 minutes, extensive notes, historical photos.

Clifton Chenier: King of Louisiana Blues and Zydeco

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Arhoolie Records - CD 00600

Format: 4xCD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 2025
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Cajun, & Zydeco
[Tracklist]
01 Louisiana Stomp (02:49)
02 Clifton's Blues (03:10)
03 Boppin' the Rock (02:21)
04 Ay-Tete Fee (02:41)
05 Rockin' Accordion (02:15)
06 Baby What You Want Me to Do (04:15)
07 That's Alright (03:03)
08 Ay, Ai, Ai (02:44)
09 Why Did You Go Last Night (03:15)
10 Zydeco et Pas Sale (03:14)
11 Louisiana Blues (04:58)
12 Lafayette Waltz (04:28)
13 Hot Rod (02:48)
14 Louisiana Shuffle (02:40)
15 French Zydeco (02:55)
16 Bon Ton Roulet (03:07)
17 Jole Blonde (03:12)
18 If I Ever Get Lucky (02:42)
19 Black Gal (02:39)
20 Keep on Scratching (02:16)
21 Black Snake Blues (04:25)
22 Let's Talk It Over (03:01)
23 Walking to Louisiana (03:35)
24 Johnny Can't Dance (02:26)
25 Grand Mamou (03:20)
26 Gone a la Maison (03:22)
27 Live from PHR Studio, Clifton Chenier! (00:32)
28 Mr. Charlie (03:52)
29 Hey Madeleine (03:39)
30 634-5789 (That's My Number) (03:42)
31 Drifting Blues (05:24)
32 Shake, Rattle and Roll (03:38)
33 Rock House (04:35)
34 Breaux Bridge Waltz (04:21)
35 Ma Negresse Est Gone (04:56)
36 Fannie Mae (04:55)
37 Going Home Tomorrow (02:57) 38 J'ai Conet, C'est pas Me Femme (03:42)
39 Since I Met You Baby (05:04)
40 Cher Catin (03:40)
41 You're My Mule (04:52)
42 I'm on the Wonder (04:17)
43 You're Fussin' Too Much (03:04)
44 All Your Love (04:22)
45 Zydeco Cha Cha (03:21)
46 Ti Na Na (Little Na Na) (03:11)
47 Someone Told Me It Was All Over (03:22)
48 You Can't Sit Down (02:21)
49 Oh! My Lucille (03:37)
50 Take Off Your Dress (04:43)
51 M'Appel Fou (They Call Me Crazy) (03:02)
52 Je Suis En Racolteur (I'm a Farmer) (04:54)
53 Je Marche le Plancher (I Walk the Floor) (03:09)
54 Tu Le Ton Son Ton (Every Now and Then) (03:03)
55 Down the Road I Go (05:15)
56 Calinda (04:03)
57 Zydeco (03:54)
58 What'd I Say (04:43)
59 Dust My Broom (03:51)
60 My Mama Told Me (05:08)
61 Night Time is the Right Time (05:57)
62 I'm a Hog for You (04:52)
63 Grand Prix (03:09)
64 You Got Me Crying (05:05)
65 Tit Mam's Zydeco (05:44)
66 Party Down (At the Blue Angel Club) (04:39)
67 I'm Coming Home (To See My Mother) (03:14)
[Credits]
Producer: Adam Machado, Liner Notes: Herman Fuselier, CJ Chenier, Nick Spitzer and James Deutsch, Mastering Engineer: Jessica Thompson
[Notes]
In South Louisiana, Clifton Chenier (1925-1987) grew up hearing his father play a style of music known as La La at house dances held in Black French Creole communities. It had a percussive and syncopated sound, played in spare combinations of an accordion and a washboard used to scrub out a rhythm. After picking up accordion as a curious teenager, Chenier soon brought into this sound the rhythm and blues that dominated radios and jukeboxes, crafting a new style that would be called zydeco. In the 1950s, he recorded for Elko, Specialty, and Chess, and joined national package show tours with stars like Little Richard and Etta James. A decade later, Chenier was quietly settled in Houston, the big stages seemingly behind him. But one rainy Saturday night at a Houston neighborhood bar, Chenier’s cousin Lightning Hopkins introduced him to Chris Strachwitz of Arhoolie Records, where zydeco and Clifton Chenier would find a new home and champion. Clifton Chenier: King of Louisiana Blues and Zydeco is a 4 CD/6 LP retrospective box set assembled in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Chenier’s birth. The set features a chronology of Chenier’s landmark work with Arhoolie and other labels, alongside a healthy dose of previously unissued gems. The 160-page book includes photos, posters, and other graphic artifacts from the Strachwitz Collection and deeply researched liner note essays by Grammy award-winning writer Adam Machado, public folklorist and radio host Nick Spitzer and longtime Louisiana journalist Herman Fuselier, along with a moving personal remembrance by Clifton’s son, Zydeco musician C.J. Chenier. The set is the first release on Arhoolie since the label became a part of Smithsonian Folkways. With music and storytelling and abundant visual imagery, this set demonstrates Clifton Chenier's life as a transformative artist -- from his earliest days practicing in the barn back home, to his reign as the undisputed King of Zydeco.To celebrate Clifton Chenier’s 100th birthday, Smithsonian Folkways is releasing a limited edition 7” single featuring Clifton Chenier and the Rolling Stones.

American Playparties with Pete Seeger, Mika Seeger, and Rev. Larry Eisenberg

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 31 May 2025 12:30:00 +0000

Folkways Records FC 7604

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1959
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Chidren's
[Tracklist]
A1 Mazoo, Mazoo (02:56)
A2 Skip to My Lou (02:24)
A3 Shake Them 'Simmons Down (02:33)
A4 Alabama Gal (03:39)
A5 Sally Down the Alley (02:23)
A6 Turn the Glasses Over (02:16)
A7 Goodbye Liza Jane (01:54)
B1 Git Along Home (01:36)
B2 Paw Paw Patch (03:29)
B3 Betty Larkin (02:59)
B4 Jolly is the Miller (03:53)
B5 Pig in the Parlor (01:26)
B6 Great Big House in New Orlean (01:50)
B7 Sent My Brown Jug Downtown (02:04)
[Credits]
Artist and Liner Notes: Pete Seeger, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
To evade the religious prohibition against dancing in certain American communities, young people in the 19th century devised an ingenious solution?they adapted children’s games, which were permitted. The result was so-called play parties. Participants sang creative songs to cue movements, and the events were great “mixers.” The only element lacking was instrumental music. On this recording, Pete Seeger and his young daughter Mika are joined by Rev. Larry Eisenberg in the singing of traditional play party songs. The songs come primarily from the collections of Lynn and Katherine Rohrbough. In accordance with traditional practice, the play parties are sung without accompaniment, save for handclapping. The liner notes, written by Pete Seeger, outline the history, development, and characteristics of play parties, and provide the lyric.

Street Cries and Creole Songs of New Orleans sung by Adelaide Van Wey

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Folkways Records - FA 2202

Format: Vinyl, 10", Album
Country: United States
Released: 1956
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Creole
[Tracklist]
A01 Remon (01:16)
A02 Salangadou (02:00)
A03 Lu-Lu-Lu (02:11)
A04 Aine (01:36)
A05 Pauv' Piti' Mom'zelle Zizi (01:38)
A06 Jacques, Jacques (01:45)
B01 Comp?re Lapin (00:43)
B02 Papa Va Pech? (01:28)
B03 Tan' Siro' ? Dou' (01:21)
B04 Maison Denise (01:00)
B05 Hominy Man (00:21)
B06 Sand Seller (00:27)
B07 Pepper Pot (00:26)
B08 Rag Man (00:32)
B09 Horseradish Seller (00:27)
B10 Flower Vendor (00:27)
B11 Cantelope Vendor (00:29)
B12 Praline Seller (00:36)
B13 Scissors Grinder (00:52)
[Credits]
Adelaide Van Wey (zither/vocals)
[Notes]
On this unique album, Adelaide van Wey sings Creole songs in the distinctive vernacular of New Orleans and performs street cries from the eastern United States. Zither accompaniment adds an enigmatic touch to each rhyme.

Julian Kytasty - Songs of Truth: Music and Song from the Kobzar Tradition of Ukraine

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 21:00:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings - SFW CD 40605

Format: CD, Compilation
Country: Canada and Ukraine
Released: 2025
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & World
[Tracklist]
01 Guardian Angel (Ангел-хранитель) (03:32)
02 O Holy God (Святий Боже) (03:34)
03 The Flood (Потоп) (02:55)
04 Savradym (Сaврaдим) (00:58)
05 Captive’s Lament (Невільницький плач) (06:40)
06 Waiting for the Porridge (Кисіль) (03:36)
07 Khoma and Yarema (Про Хому і Ярему) (10:12)
08 To Every City Its Customs and Laws (Всякому городу нрав і права (02:49)
09 Song of Truth (Про Правду) (04:09)
10 Bondarivna (Про Бондарівну) (04:17)
11 Kozachok (Козачок) (01:30)
12 The Noblewoman (Про дворянку) (03:25)
13 Metelytsia (Mетелиця) (01:23)
14 The Last Judgement (Про Страшний суд) (04:47)
15 The Sinner at the Gates of Heaven (Множество аз согреших) (03:38)
[Credits]
Producer: Marcia Ostashewski, Engineer: Christopher Jones, Designer: Darene Roma Yavorsky
[Notes]
Julian Kytasty is celebrated around the world as a master of the bandura. This plucked-string instrument has become a symbol of Ukraine through its association with the deep tradition of the kobzari. On Songs of Truth: Music and Song from the Kobzar Tradition of Ukraine, he brings expressive clarity and vibrancy to this centuries-old repertoire of these blind bards through skillfully retold historical epics, timeless philosophical songs, biting satire, and joyful dance tunes.

Paul Robeson – On My Journey: Paul Robeson's Independent Recordings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 05:30:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways Recordings – SFW CD 40178

Series: African American Legacy Recordings
Format: CD, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 2007
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Struggle
[Tracklist]
01 On My Journey: Mount Zion (2:26)
02 Scandalize My Name (2:04)
03 Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel? (1:25)
04 Hassidic Chant: Kaddish (2:42)
05 We Are Climbing Jacob's Ladder (3:02)
06 Songs My Mother Taught Me (2:09)
07 The Minstrel Boy (2:03)
08 The Orphan (1:40)
09 Swing Low, Sweet Chariot (2:13)
10 Vi Azoi Lebt Der Keyser (3:17)
11 Witness (2:15)
12 Hammer Song (2:09)
13 Water Me From The Lime Rock (1:41)
14 Let Us Break Bread Together On Our Knees (2:03)
15 Amazing Grace (3:37)
16 Shlol, Mein Kind (3:08)
17 Skye Boat Song (2:16)
18 Wanderer (2:27)
19 I'm Gonna Let It Shine (2:34)
20 Stand Still Jordan (3:22)
21 Takin' Names (2:34)
22 Dans Le Printemps De Mes Annees (1:35)
23 Passing By (1:55)
24 Mistress Mine (1:45)
25 Now Sleeps The Crimson Petal (2:08)
26 Li'l Gal (2:50)
27 Kevin Barry (2:16 28 Zot Nit Keynmol (Song Of The Warsaw Ghetto) (2:07)
29 Joe Hill (3:05)
30 Zvornost (2:16)
31 Bear The Burden In The Heat Of The Day (3:21)
32 No More Auction Block For Me (2:11)
[Credits]
Producer and Liner Notes: Robert H. Cataliotti, Recorder and Photographer: Paul Robeson, Designer: Sonya Cohen Cramer
[Notes]
An American giant of 20th-century music, Paul Robeson stood tall against racism, McCarthyism, and blacklisting to proclaim the majesty of African-American culture. Recorded on his own Othello label in the 1950s, Robeson’s voice rings out with traditional spirituals and folk melodies from around the globe inspiring international audiences to embrace him as the people’s bard of faith, hope, and freedom. 34-page booklet, historic photos, 74 minutes. This recording is part of the Smithsonian Folkways African American Legacy series, co-presented with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Easy Rider: Leadbelly Legacy Volume Four

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Folkways Records – FA 2034

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue
Country: United States
Released: 1953, 2019
Genre: Blues, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Blues
[Tracklist]
A1 There's a Man Going Round Taking Names (01:44)
A2 Easy Rider (02:50)
A3 Red Bird (02:54)
A4 Line 'Em (01:14)
A5 T.B. Blues (03:42)
B1 Jim Crow (02:23)
B2 Bourgeois Blues (02:17)
B3 Army Life (01:45)
B4 Hitler Song (03:02)
[Credits]
Lead Belly (guitar/vocals)
Recorder: Moses Asch, Liner Notes: Frederic Ramsey, Jr., Cover Artwork: Don Sibley
[Notes]
This collection of songs by Lead Belly was assembled by Folkways founder Moses Asch from recordings made in the early to mid-1940s, and it focuses primarily on Lead Belly’s observations on the hate and racism that permeated America and the world during this turbulent period of history. Songs like "Jim Crow" and “Bourgeois Blues” reflect his anger at the discrimination he and others experienced as African Americans, while "Hitler" was his condemnation of Hitler and anti-Semitism. The vinyl reissue of Easy Rider includes the original liner notes and is part of Folkways Records' Vinyl Reissue Series, revisiting some of the most iconic and influential albums released on the record label. We are offering Easy Rider along with the vinyl reissues of Dave Van Ronk's Ballads, Blues, and a Spiritual, and Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry Sing as a Vinyl Bundle with Bonus Folkways Slipmat.

Michael Cohen: Some of Us Had to Live

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Folkways Records – FS 8583

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo
Country: United States
Released: 1976
Genre: Rock, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Struggle, & Protest
[Tracklist]
A1 Soren (02:29)
A2 Poison Darts (03:31)
A3 Oracle (On Main Street) (03:02)
A4 The Riddled Song (02:00)
A5 Millstone (02:17)
A6 Dyin' Day (05:01)
B1 Spend Your Love with Me (02:33)
B2 Ward Six Revisited (03:00)
B3 Don (03:24)
B4 Sole Inheritor (05:07)
B5 In a Dream, Again (04:11)
[Credits]
Michael Cohen (guitar/piano/synthesizer/vocals)
Cover Artwork: Sue Apte, Photographer: Vivien Rabin, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
New York City-based singer-songwriter (and cab driver) Michael Cohen (1951-1997) released only three recordings during his life, including two for Folkways Records: What Did You Expect in 1973 and Some of Us Had to Live in 1976. Cohen was an early performer of songs dealing with gay themes. For example, in "Poison Darts" the song's narrator tells of his partner's struggle over his sexual orientation.

Eskimo Songs from Alaska

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Recorded on St. Lawrence Island by Miriam C. Stryker

Ethnic Folkways Library – FHS 37254

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1966
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Indigenous
[Tracklist]
A01 Small Owl: Nick Wongatilin (00:54)
A02 How Much Will I Get for the Ivory Carving?: Nathan Noonwook (03:08)
A03 Looking for Someone Who Wants to Eskimo Dance: Amos Penayak (04:35)
A04 Balloon Song: Nick Wongatilin (02:02)
A05 Walking from Savoonga to Gambell: Paul Jensen (00:55)
A06 Cowboy Song: John Apongalook (00:53)
A07 Praise, Praise God: Nick Wongatilin (01:18)
A08 Helicopter Song / Second Helicopter Song: Nathan Noonwook (05:17)
A09 Drum Song: Nick Wongatilin (02:05)
B01 Like a Little Girl: Laurence Kulukbon (02:52)
B02 Little Indian Boy: Fred Angi (02:35)
B03 Indian Exhausted: Fred Angi (02:04)
B04 Rise up Helicopter, like a Bird: Fred Angi (01:45)
B05 Guitar Song: John Apongalook (02:33)
B06 Eskimo Rock 'n' Roll: Inuit Yup'ik singers, Gambell village (02:47)
B07 Little Cowboy: Inuit Yup'ik singers, Gambell village (02:12)
B08 Swing Your Drum: Inuit Yup'ik singers, Gambell village (01:43)
B09 I Couldn't Wait: Inuit Yup'ik singers, Gambell village (02:00)
B10 Old Song: John Apongalook (02:12)
[Credits]
Producer: Charles Hofmann, Recorder and Field Worker: Miriam C. Stryker, Designer: Irwin Rosenhouse
[Notes] Recorded on St Lawrence Island by Miriam C. Stryker in 1966 this album features songs from the Yup'ik people who have long occupied the Island and who live in two separate villages Savoonga and Gambell. Yup'ik legend tells of the Island’s formation: "The Sea Goddess, picking up a handful of ooze from the bottom of the sea, squeezed it between her fingers, forming mountains that are part of its interesting terrain." This rugged terrain means a hard life for a people who live off the land. The songs relate through subjects such as hunting, fishing, boats, animals and the like. The lyrics are often very sparse and sometimes the song consists solely of chanted syllables. Liner notes include history of the Yup'ik and song information.

Fast Folk Musical Magazine Volume 3 Number 4

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Fast Folk Musical Magazine – FFFF304

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1986
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 For My Lover: Tracy Chapman (03:15)
A2 United Tool and Die: Leo Kretzner (03:45)
A3 Que lindo tener papel: Flor de Caña (03:15)
A4 May They Be Blessed: Scott Alarik (04:45)
A5 Nobody but You: Cormac McCarthy (03:20)
A6 Everybody Needs a Hug: Marian Streetpeople and Barbara Herson (03:00)
A7 One More Round: Catherine David (02:49)
B1 Breakfast in Bed: Bob Halpern and Rick Watson (02:52)
B2 Love Comes to a Simple Heart: Chuck Hall (03:28)
B3 Close to Dreams: Sue Krantz (03:27)
B4 Take Me, I Want to Go with You: Jason Threlfall (04:37)
B5 The Rain Today: S. Amelia White and Jennifer Staton (03:36)
B6 House Full of Fortune: Deborah Silverstein (03:57)
B7 Ballad of a Female Shanty Singer: Talitha Claypool Nelson (03:33)
[Credits]
Producer: Richard A. Meyer, Field Worker: Christine Lavin, Recorder: Jay Rosen
[Notes]
New York–based Fast Folk Musical Magazine heads to the Boston area for two recordings at the Nameless Coffeehouse in Cambridge in early 1986. Beginning with Tracy Chapman's "For My Lover" and ending with Talitha Nelson's a cappella (and probably semi-autobiographical) "Ballad of a Female Shanty Singer," this release finds the local folk music scene to be alive and well. Leo Kretzner's "United Tool and Die," a song about unemployment in the auto industry, still resonates, and Marian Streetpeople and Barbara Herson have fun with "Everybody Needs a Hug" (even President Ronald Reagan). A 20–page facsimile of Fast Folk Musical Magazine is included.

Chip Taylor and The Grandkids: Golden Kids Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways - SFW CD 45071

Format: CD, Album, Stereo
Country: United States
Released: 2011
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Children's
[Tracklist]
01 Golden Kids' Rules (02:41)
02 I’m Just Thinkin’ about What I'm Thinkin' About (02:14)
03 Quarter Moon Shining (03:48)
04 Big Ideas (03:35)
05 Magical Horse (04:02)
06 Daddy Is a Red Sox Fan / Mommy Is a Yankee Fan (01:41)
07 Kids to Save the Planet (02:39)
08 Did You Hear What Jennifer Did? (03:01)
09 You Can Come and Play with Our Toys (02:49)
10 Introduction to Wedding Songs (00:06)
11 The Possum Hunter (03:14)
12 Happy Wedding (03:41)
13 Now That Kristian and Anna Have Wed (04:18)
[Credits]
Producer and Liner Notes: Chip Taylor, Liner Notes: Jon Voight and Jeff Place, Photographers: Davey Wilson and Kelly Voight, Designer: Andy Taray, Engineers: Huck Benn
[Notes]
When renowned musician and songwriter Chip Taylor ("Wild Thing" and "Angel of the Morning") became a grandfather, he directed his creative energy to writing new songs with and for his grandkids. Golden Kids Rules melds the husky, time-worn vocals and the musical instincts of a seasoned performer with the charming artistry of his three young grandchildren. The album overflows with love of family and the musical bonds that hold them together. Taylor’s brother, actor Jon Voight, offers an insightful introduction to the artist and the album. 13 tracks, 38 minutes, 36-page booklet with lyrics.

Cajun Home Music

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Folkways Records – FA 2620

Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: United States
Released: 1977
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Cajun & Zydeco
[Tracklist]
A01 La Danse Carrée: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (01:28)
A02 Oh, Si J'aurais des Ailes: Loricia Guillory (01:07)
A03 La Valse de Choupique: Cyprien Landreneau (01:29)
A04 Renaud le Tueur de Femme: Pierre Daigle (02:22)
A05 Saute Crapaud: Elisabeth Landreneau (00:59)
A06 La Réel à Fruge: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (01:40)
A07 Un Petit Bonhomme: Elisabeth Landreneau (00:12)
A08 La Valse de Cherokee: Cyprien Landreneau and Delia Landreneau (01:06)
A09 Derrière Chez Nous y à T'une Jolie Fontaine: Loricia Guillory (01:13)
A10 Tit Galop Pour Mamou: Elisabeth Landreneau (01:34)
A11 La Valse des Amities: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (02:27)
A12 Chère Mom: Cyprien Landreneau (01:19)
B01 La Valse à Fruge: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (02:16)
B02 Madeleine: Narcisse Cormier and Alice Cormier (01:20)
B03 Tite Fille de Quinze Ans: Agnes Bourque (01:22)
B04 La Valse à Adam: Elisabeth Landreneau (01:27)
B05 Le Two-Step à Frère Devilliers: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (01:59)
B06 La Valse du Grand Marais: Narcisse Cormier (02:21)
B07 La Délaissée: Agnes Bourque (01:19)
B08 La Gigue a Savoy: Marc Savoy and Don Montoucet (01:14)
B09 La Danseuse Noyée: Pierre Daigle (02:21)
B10 La Valse du Coteau de Laurier: Dennis McGee and Sady Courville (02:11)
[Credits]
Recorder and Producer: Gérard Dôle, Designer: Ronald Clyne, Photographer: Russell Lee
[Notes]
This album, recorded by Gérard Dôle, presents Cajun home music from before World War I. From solo ballads to instrumental dance tunes, this collection explores the musical expressions of descendants of the Acadians who were expelled from Nova Scotia by the British in the French and Indian War.

Ella Jenkins and a Union of Friends Pulling Together

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways - SFW CD 45046

Format: CD, Album, Stereo
Country: United States
Released: 1999
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Children's
[Tracklist]
01 Miss Sue Joined the Union: Ella Jenkins (00:45)
02 Family Reunion / Skip to My Lou: Ella Jenkins (03:33)
03 Mabel, Mabel, Mabel: Ella Jenkins (02:13)
04 Union Train / Train's A-Coming: Ella Jenkins (00:52)
05 Hallelujah, We Are Traveling: Bucky Halker and chorus (02:15)
06 Keep Your Hands on the Plow: Ella Jenkins (01:00)
07 The Farmer is the Man: Bucky Halker and chorus (03:50)
08 Let My People Go: Ella Jenkins (01:27)
09 Going down That Road Feeling Bad: Bucky Halker and chorus (03:58)
10 In Unity There Is Strength / Union Maid: Ella Jenkins (01:16)
11 What's Your Trade?: Ella Jenkins (00:50)
12 Hammer, Hammer, Hammer: Mary Ringstad and chorus (02:05)
13 A Singer of Folk Songs: Ella Jenkins (01:06)
14 Hammer Song: Pete Seeger (02:05)
15 A Union Meeting: Ella Jenkins (00:54)
16 Speak Right Up: Mary Ringstad, Bucky Halker, and chorus (02:14)
17 The Picket Line: Ella Jenkins (00:23)
18 Step by Step: Henry and Suzan Herzog (02:00)
19 Making Music Together: Ella Jenkins (01:13)
20 One Meat Ball: Josh White Jr. (03:56)
21 The More We Work Together: Mary Ringstad and chorus (01:23)
22 The Union Team: Ella Jenkins (01:03)
23 Which Side Are You On?: Bucky Halker, Ella Jenkins, and chorus (02:31)
24 Union Maid (1): Ella Jenkins (00:57)
25 Solidarity Forever: Mary Ringstad and chorus (02:22)
26 Circle of Friends: Ella Jenkins (00:14)
27 Union Maid (2): Ella Jenkins, Mary Ringstad, and chorus (01:10)
[Credits]
Producer: Bernadelle Richter, Liner Notes: Ella Jenkins, Designer: Carol Dirga, Cover Artwork: Peggy Lipschutz, Engineers: Chris Shepard and Charlie Pilzer
[Notes]
Legendary children’s performer Ella Jenkins and a group of young and older musical friends introduces children to the ideas of unity, cooperation, and labor unions through songs, recitation, and poetry. Recorded in 1999, this CD features harmonica, piano, percussion, banjo, guitar, vocals, and chorus. The recording reminds us how unity and strength are part of family ties as well as adult life and work. 47 minutes. 18 -page booklet, discography. Suitable for children ages 4-12 and their parents.

Pete Seeger: Goofing-Off Suite

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Folkways Records – FA 2045

Format: Vinyl, LP, Reissue
Country: United States
Released: 1955, 2018
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk
[Tracklist]
A01 Theme (01:09)
A02 Cindy (00:54)
A03 Blue Skies (02:23)
A04 The Girl I Left Behind Me (01:13)
A05 Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (01:00)
A06 Duet from Beethoven's 7th Symphony (02:04)
A07 Chorale from Beethoven's 9th Symphony (01:24)
A08 Russian Folk Themes and Yodel (02:10)
A09 Anitra's Dance / Brandy Leave Me Alone (01:48)
A10 Theme (Reprise) (01:15)
B01 The Mexican Blues (01:57)
B02 Time's A-Getting Hard (02:20)
B03 Barrel of Money Blues (01:29)
B04 Sally My Dear (03:29)
B05 Oh, Liza, Poor Gal (01:44)
B06 Sally Ann (01:26)
B07 Woody's Rag (01:27)
[Credits]
Producers: Huib Schippers and Atesh Sonneborn, Reissue album designer: Natalia Custodio
[Notes]
2018 vinyl reissue, remastered from the original 1955 master tapes, packaged in classic Folkways-style tip-on jackets with original liner notes. Originally issued as a 10-inch album in 1955, Goofing-Off Suite finds Pete Seeger playing a mix of classical, popular, and folk music. Side 1 of the recording includes five classical music themes adapted by Seeger for banjo. In the liner notes, Seeger urges musicians to swipe music from different genres to break down musical barriers and expand musical horizons. Side 2 is Seeger playing a more familiar repertoire of traditional folk music on banjo, guitar, and chalil (flute) ("Sally My Dear"). The vinyl reissue of Goofing-Off Suite includes Pete Seeger's liner notes and is part of Folkways Records' 70th anniversary celebration series, revisiting some of the most iconic and influential albums released on the record label. We are offering the vinyl reissue of American Banjo: Tunes and Songs in Scruggs Style, Dock Boggs: Legendary Singer and Banjo Player, and Pete Seeger Goofing-Off Suite as a Vinyl Bundle with Bonus Folkways Slipmat.

Mark Olf sings Jewish Folk Songs Vol. 1

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Folkways Records – FW 6826

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1951
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Judaica
[Tracklist]
A1 In an orem shtibele (02:39)
A2 Hob ich a por oksen (01:44)
A3 Bulbe (01:36)
A4 Der rebbe elimelech (02:20)
A5 Oif'N pripitchik (03:04)
A6 Rozhenkes mit mandlen (01:45)
B1 Dona dona (02:53)
B2 Vei vos fun main mantle iz gevoren (02:47)
B3 A ganeyveh (01:57)
B4 Mariyashe (02:51)
B5 Zlatke (01:54)
B6 Tumba tumba (01:57)
[Credits]
Mark Olf (guitar/vocals)
[Notes]
Mark Olf (1905–1987) was a composer and singer of Yiddish and Hebrew songs. He emigrated from Russia to the U.S. with his family when he was in his early teens; he later recorded some of the songs he had heard as a child, toured the country performing, and taught music at the Henry Street Settlement on the Lower East Side, Queens College (CUNY), and the University of Rhode Island. On this recording-–one of four he made for Folkways Records—he sings well-known Yiddish folk songs, accompanying himself on guitar. Yiddish, which incorporates German, Hebrew, and Slavic elements, was the primary secular language of the Jews in Eastern Europe. Liner notes provide English translations and the original Yiddish texts.

Songs of Steel and Struggle: The Story of the Steelworkers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Sung by Joe Glazer with the Charlie Byrd Trio

Collector Records - 1930

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1975
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & Struggle
[Tracklist]
A1 Pittsburgh (01:59)
A2 Red Iron Ore (02:23)
A3 The Ballad of Jon Catchins (03:42)
A4 United Steelworkers Are We (01:54)
A5 Amalgamate as One (03:27)
A6 The Homestead Strike (03:17)
A7 Memorial Day Massacre (01:59)
A8 The Spirit of Phil Murray (02:29)
B1 Too Old to Work (02:57)
B2 Corrido Del Minero (02:49)
B3 Steel Mill Blues (02:41)
B4 1913 Massacre (04:06)
B5 I Lie in the American Land (03:02)
B6 When a Fellow Is Out of a Job (02:41)
B7 Solidarity Forever (02:34)
[Credits]
Joe Glazer (guitor/vocals) Charlie Byrd Trio (guitar/bass/drums)
[Notes]
Collector Records presents Joe Glazer along with the Charlie Byrd Trio in this collection of Songs of Steel—as no series on industrial folklore and folksong in America would be complete without an album dedicated to steelworkers. Glazer opens the album with Woody Guthrie’s hit song “Pittsburgh” and sings of other poignant moments in steel unions’ history, including the gut-wrenching tale of the "Memorial Day Massacre"

The Music Of New Orleans Volume One

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

The Music of the Streets: The Music of Mardi Gras

Folkways Records – FA 2461

Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: United States
Released: 1958
Genre: Jazz, Folk, World, & Country
Style: Jazz, & Ragtime
[Tracklist]
A1 Street Cries (1): Vegetable peddlers (00:49)
A2 Let God's Moon Alone: Dora Alexander (01:13)
A3 Times Done Changed: Dora Alexander (01:29)
A4 Street Cries (2): Percy Randolph (01:15)
A5 What a Friend We Have in Jesus / My Old Kentucky Home: James Mitchell (03:13)
A6 Shine: Percy Randolph (01:07)
A7 Liebestraum: Frank Amica (04:14)
A8 Hambone: Shoeshine boy (01:06)
A9 Mean Old Frisco: Snooks Eaglin (03:08)
B1 To-Wa-Bac-A-Way - The Indian Race: Mardi Gras Indians with Joe DeGrait (03:38)
B2 Red White and Blue Got the Golden Band: Mardi Gras Indians (05:13)
B3 On Mardi Gras Day: Hank (03:49)
B4 Bourbon Street Parade: A brass band (03:23)
B5 When the Saints Go Marching in / Margie: A parade with brass bands (02:42)
[Credits]
Producer: Moses Asch, Recorder: Samuel Charters, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
This fascinating collection of music from the streets of New Orleans was recorded between 1954 and 1958, and includes an inspiring variety of material, from vegetable peddlers' street cries to the musical saw and brass bands, from a shoeshine boy's hambone to Sister Dora Alexander's impassioned "Russia, Let God's Moon Alone," written the day after Russia launched a satellite.

Call - And - Response: Rhythmic Group Singing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Conceived and Narrated and Sung by Ella Jenkins

Folkways Records – FC 7638

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1957
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, Children's, & African
[Tracklist]
A1 Tah-Boo (01:59)
A2 Zeembah (01:14)
A3 Moon Don't Go (01:59)
A4 Moon Don't Go (With Instruments) (00:45)
A5 Toom-Bah-Ee-Lero (01:49)
A6 Toom-Bah-Ee-Lero (With Instruments) (01:26)
B1 A Chant From West Africa (01:23)
B2 A Love Chant From North Africa (01:12)
B3 An American Chain Gang Chant (02:15)
B4 An Arabic Chant That Means Welcome (01:14)
[Credits]
Producer: Ella Jenkins and Moses Asc, Photographer: Jo Banks, Designer: Matthew Langley, Mastering Engineer: Charlie Pilzer
[Notes]
In 1956, Ella Jenkins went to New York City with an acetate demo disc of children’s music she had recorded. She had decided to devote her life to music. At the office of Folkways Records, Ella met with label founder Moses Asch, who listened to her tape and, after she recorded a few more songs, made it into a record. Now, almost 70 years later, Ella Jenkins has become one of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings' most iconic artists. World renowned for her impact on the music education landscape, she has aptly been nicknamed "The First Lady of Children's Music." Originally released on a 10-inch LP record in 1957, Ella's first album features simple call-and-response chants from both the United States and Africa, specially adapted for young children. Rhythmic and easy to learn and performed with a group of school children, these songs encourage group singing and the development of musical skills and memory. Call-and-Response launched Ella Jenkin's long and storied career of making music for young people and is an excellent introduction to the beloved performer. Recommended for ages 5–9.

Camp Songs

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 08 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Pete Seeger and Erik Darling with the Song Swappers

Folkways Records – SC 7551

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: Ireland, & United States
Released: 1955
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Children's, & Folk
[Tracklist]
A1 Children of the Lord (01:51)
A2 Bingo Was His Name (01:29)
A3 Daughter Will You Marry? (01:39)
A4 If All the Rain Drops (00:38)
A5 Be Kind to Your Teachers (01:06)
A6 The Younger Generation (01:31)
A7 John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmitt (00:55)
A8 I Was Born 10,000 Years Ago (Just the Facts Ma'am) (03:05)
B1 Happy Jackie Junior (00:31)
B2 Spring Would Be / There Was a Little Man (01:26)
B3 Oh, When Pop was a Little Boy (01:27)
B4 Hard Luck Blues (01:29)
B5 Kevin Barry (03:53)
B6 Putting on the Style (02:43)
B7 Finegan, Beginigin (01:25)
[Credits]
Pete Seeger (guitar/banjo/vocals) Erik Darling (banjo/vocals)
Producer: Moses Asch, Designer: Ronald Clyne
[Notes]
The enthusiasm and informality of summer camp songs are captured by a group of six- to eleven- year-old children, whose performance is directed by iconic folksinger Pete Seeger (1919–2014). Seeger also arranged the songs, and with his banjo further enlivens the proceedings. In addition, folksinger/banjoist Erik Darling (1933–2008), perhaps best known for his recording (as leader of the Rooftop Singers) of the hit single "Walk Right In" in 1963, performs five camp songs as solo numbers. The liner notes provide the lyrics of the songs, enabling listeners to join in the fun.

Peggy Seeger: Animal Folk Songs for Children

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 02:30:00 +0000

Scholastic Records – SC 7551

Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1957
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Children's, & Folk
[Tracklist]
A01 Little Brown Dog (02:13)
A02 Oh, Blue (01:45)
A03 The Big Sheep (The Darby Ram) (01:57)
A04 Riding Round the Cattle (02:05)
A05 The Old Cow Died (01:53)
A06 Raccoon and Possum (01:17)
A07 Cross-Eyed Gopher (00:37)
A08 Little Lap-Dog Lullaby (01:27)
A09 Jack, Can I Ride (01:52)
A10 Daddy Shot a Bear (00:55)
B01 The Deer Song (03:08)
B02 And We Hunted and We Hunted (01:55)
B03 Mister Rabbit (02:10)
B04 Peep Squirrel (01:52)
B05 A Squirrel Is a Pretty Thing (01:25)
B06 Snake Baked a Hoecake (01:06)
B07 Old Lady Goose (01:23)
B08 My Old Hen's Good Old Hen (01:05)
B09 Of All the Beast-es (01:06)
[Credits]
Peggy Seeger (guitar/banjo/fiddle/vocals)
[Notes]
It could not have been an easy task for Peggy Seeger to choose the 22 tracks for this album from the 43 featured in her mother’s 1950 publication, Animal Folk Songs for Children. Her mother was the influential musician, educator, and folklorist Ruth Crawford Seeger, who drew on field recordings archived in the Library of Congress for the book. A joyful album for children and adults, the music on this recording tells tales of little brown dogs, old frogs, pretty squirrels, and cross-eyed gophers, while the liner notes divulge the songs’ intriguing origins and lyrics. Although many of the songs have been passed down through generations with little more than perhaps some hand-clapping and foot-tapping, Seeger provides simple guitar, banjo, and fiddle accompaniment.

Iowa State Fare: Music from the Heartland

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Smithsonian Folkways – SFW CD 40083

Format: CD, Album
Country: United States
Released: 1996
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Folk, & World
[Tracklist]
01 Silent Singer: The Matney Sisters (02:02)
02 Amazing Grace / God Loves You: The Matney Sisters (02:24)
03 Little Goose Polka: Becky and the Ivanhoe Dutchmen (02:32)
04 Das Kufstein Lied: Becky and The Ivanhoe Dutchmen (05:15)
05 Scared of Your Love: Becky and The Ivanhoe Dutchmen (05:38)
06 Old Fishing Hole: Louis and the Blues Review (04:26)
07 Round Dance Song: Everett Kapayou (01:20)
08 Love Song: Everett Kapayou (01:33)
09 Virginia Darling: Dwight Lamb and Lloyd Snow (01:40)
10 Red Wing: Dwight Lamb and Lloyd Snow (01:38)
11 Las Tres Mujeres: Solís and Solís (02:46)
12 Maria Chuchena: Solís and Solís (03:23)
13 Be Thou My Vision: Deer Creek Quartet (02:03)
14 Henry Storhoff's Schottische: Foot-Notes (02:11)
15 Emigrant Waltz: Foot-Notes (03:36)
16 Ain't No Devil: Psalms (04:51)
17 Go Tell It on the Mountain: Psalms (04:01)
[Credits]
Writer: Catherine Hiebert Kerst, Rachelle H. Saltzman, Liner Notes: Gergory Hansen, Dave Moore, Cynthia Schmidt, Engineer: Pete Reiniger, Mike Lawyer, David Glasser
[Notes]
Scandinavian string band melodies, Meskwaki Indian love songs, gospel harmonies, polkas, old-time fiddling, Mexican folk songs, and blues are some of the vibrant community-based musical traditions presented in this unique collection of Iowa music. Iowa State Fare showcases the vitality and diversity of the state's musical traditions on the occasion of the celebration of 150 years of Iowa statehood. These 1996 studio recordings feature eight ensembles and one solo performer selected to appear in the Iowa Sesquicentennial program at the Smithsonian Festival of American Folklife. The CD booklet features essays, bibliographic information, and lyrics with translations. "The joys of Iowa's indigenous musics abound." —Icon