Hi,
My last Carter family post was so long it wouldn't let me include the last two L songs: Lover's Return and Lulu Walls.
Lover's Return is a tradtional folk song usually called "Too Late" or "Too Late You Have to Come Back to Me." It was recorded by the Carters in 1934 after ten previous recordings including one by Ernest Stoneman in 1928. The song is known in ballad index as The Last Farewell (The Lover's Return):
"So at last you have come back Since time at last has set you free...." The singer recalls his old love for the other -- but concludes that it is all over now: "No, no, you must not take my hand; God never gives us back our youth...."
Versions include: Randolph 761, "The Last Farewell" (2 texts, 1 tune)
Randolph/Cohen, pp. 495,496 "The Last Farewell" (1 text, 1 tune -- Randolph's 761A)
MHenry-Appalachians, pp. 152-153, "And So You Have Come Back to Me" (1 text)
Spaeth-WeepMore, pp. 33-34, "Too Late" (1 text, 1 tune)
Lover's Return- Carter Family
And so you have come back to me
And say the old love's growing yet
You've tried through all these weary years
You've tried too vainly to forget.
CHORUS: No, no I cannot take your hand
God never gives us back our youth
The loving heart you slighted then
Was yours my friend in perfect truth
Farewell farewell now we must part
You never meant to do me wrong
God sent this anguish to my heart
To teach me to be brave and strong
Farewell I think I love you yet
As friend to friend God bless you dear
And guide you through these weary years
To where the skies are always clear
Lulu Walls is a song I included in my book, Bluegrass Picker's Song Book. I combinend the Carter's version with Bascom Lamar Lunsford's. The song is from the 1800s bu an unknown author ( Meade). It appears in the Jan. 1888 edition of Wehman's Collection of Songs. It was recorded by the Carters in 1929 and 1935.
Lulu Walls- Carter Family
One evening getting dark, we first met at the park
Sitting by the fountain all alone;
I lifted up my hat, and then began to chat
She said she'd love to see me at her home
Such a star I've never seen, she's as pretty as a queen
She's as perfect as an angel from above, I
f she'll only be my wife, I'll live happy all my life
With that aggravating beauty, Lulu Walls
If she were only mine, I would build a house so fine
Around it so many fences tall,
It would make me jealous free, that no one else but me
Could gaze on that beauty, Lulu Walls
One evening getting late, I met her at the gate
I asked her if she'd wed me in the fall,
She only turned away, and nothing would she say
That aggravating beauty, Lulu Walls
That's about it. We'll eventually go through all the orginal Carters songs,
Richard
Monday, January 26, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Band Gig
Hi,
My band, Crossroads, will be playing tonight from 9:00 to 12:00 at Pop's Place located at 935 Goss Ave. Louisville, KY. For info and directions call 502-290-5090. There's a $3 cover charge.
Hope you can come,
Richard
My band, Crossroads, will be playing tonight from 9:00 to 12:00 at Pop's Place located at 935 Goss Ave. Louisville, KY. For info and directions call 502-290-5090. There's a $3 cover charge.
Hope you can come,
Richard
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Carter Family: Songs beginning with Letter L
Hi,
Back to the Carter Family songs! First some news: I've finished my painting of Little Maggie- the first night painting in the series. My band Crossroads will be playing at Pop's Place in Louisville this Sat. Jan 24.
The original Carter Family had 23 songs titled with the letter L. One of the L songs Little Joe was already covered under the title Darling Little Joe.
Last Move for Me;
Lay My Head Beneath the Rose;
Let the Church Roll On;
Let's Be Lovers Again;
Little Black Train;
Little Darlin' Pal of Mine;
Little Joe (See: Darling Little Joe);
Little Log Cabin by the Sea;
Little Log Hut in the Lane;
Little Moses;
Little Poplar Log House on the Hill;
Lonesome for You;
Lonesome for You Darling;
Lonesome Homesick Blues;
Lonesome Pine Special;
Lonesome Valley;
Longing for Old Virginia;
Look Away from the Cross;
Look How This World Has Made a Change;
Lord, I'm in Your Care;
Lover's Farewell;
Lover's Lane;
Lover's Return;
Lulu Walls;
Last Move for Me was recorded June 8, 1936 in NYC and is another gospel song the Carters did by Herbert Buffum. "When I make My Last Move" was written by Herbert Buffum (1879-1939) around 1926.
THE LAST MOVE FOR ME- Carter Family
I've been traveling for Jesus so much of my life
Been traveling o'er land and on sea
But I'm planning on taking a trip to the sky
That will be the last move for me
When I move to the sky up in heaven so high
What a wonderful time that will be
I'm ready to go, washed in Calvary's flow
That will be the last move for me [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I've seen wonderful sights as I've traveled afar
How little, how empty they seem
When I make my last move to that city of gold
That will be the last move for me
CHORUS [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Here I'm bothered with packing each time that I move
And carry a load in each hand
But I'll not need one thing that I've used in this world
When I move to that heavenly land
CHORUS
Everything that I'll need will be furnished up there
Not even my songbooks I'll bring
Or the precious old Bible that showed me the way
I'll not need when I stand by my King
CHORUS:
When I Make My Last Move- Herbert Buffum (Original lyrics)
I have been traveling for Jesus, so much of my life
I have been traveling on land and on sea
But I am counting on taking a trip to the sky
That will be the last move for me!
I have seen wonderful sights as I have traveled afar
But how little, how empty it will seem
When I make my last move to that City Of God
And behold what no vision could dream.
There will be prophets, who I will meet over there
Whose teachings have guided me right
I shall meet the Apostles and Jesus my Lord
I believe I shall know them at sight.
Here I am bothered with packing
And I carry a load in each hand
But I will not need one thing, I have used in this world,
When I move to that Heavenly Land.
When I move to the sky, up to Heaven on High,
What a wonderful trip that will be,
I am already to go Washed in Calvary's flow,
That will be the last move for me!
"Lay My Head Beneath the Rose" is a song the Carters did in 1936 that was made popular by Vernon Dalhart in 1926. "Lay My Head Beneath A Rose" was written by Ned Straight in 1879. Madison and Faulkenstein also published a version in 1897 which was published again in 1936 (1946) and surprisingly has copyright restrictions.
The sheet music may have been reissued beacuse of the Carter or Dalhart recordings. This is another example of a song with an invalid copyright. Both the Levy and Indiana sheet msuic will not display the sheet music.
Lay My Head Beneath The Rose- Carter Family
Darling, clasp me to your bosom
As you did in days of yore
Lay your hand upon my forehead
'Ere I reach the golden shore
Life is from me fastly falling
Soon I'll be in sweet repose
When I'm gone I ask this favor
Lay my head beneath the rose
Darling, first you said you loved me
When you gave me hand and heart
There were roses on your cheeks, love
As we vowed we ne'er would part
One more kiss for I am going
Far beyond all earthly woe
May your life be like your cheeks, love
Covered with the blossomed rose
He has crossed the shadowed valley
Where the living waters flow
Love has answered all his pleading
And he sleeps in sweet repose
'Neath a grassy mound he's resting
Where the golden sunset glows
Love has answered all his pleading
And he sleeps in sweet repose.
"Let the Church Roll On" is a spiritual that was popular in the 1920s was recorded first by the African-American group, the Norfolk Jubilee Quartet in 1926. It was recorded 5 times before the Carters 1931 Charlotte, NC recording for Victor. The Carters learned the song from Leslie Riddle and also through his friend gospel singer Pauline Gary from Kingsport.
LET THE CHURCH ROLL ON- Carter Family/Leslie Riddle
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're gamblers in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Turn them out)
And let the church roll on [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're drunkards in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Turn them out)
And let the church roll on [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're members in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Take some new ones that could)
And let the church roll on
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
Let's Be Lovers Again is a song from Gussie Davis in 1893 titled, "Jack and May (Make Up and Be Lover's Again)". It's been recorded as "Jack and May" as well as the "Let's be Sweet hearts/Lovers/Friends" titles. The Carters recorded their version in 1935.
LET'S BE LOVERS AGAIN- Carter Family
Jack and MaySweethearts were they
They were engaged to be wed
Many a promise he made her
Many a love word he said
As most lovers do
They quarreled one night
She bid him not come anymore
She gave him his hatJack started away
But he lingered to stay at the door
Chorus: Tie up those broken cords
And lets be lovers again
Darling, you know I love you
To part would give me pain
Let us forget the past
And make up, my pet
Make up and be lovers again.
Years rolled byNeither were wed
All of Jack's pleadings were vain
One quiet evening poor Jack was found dead
All through life in dismay
Two lives that have been wrecked
But she loves, oh, too late
She goes to his grave every day
She can't tell you why
But it seems to her cry
The wind seems to whisper and say
Little Black Train is a tradition gospel song dating back to the late 1800s (Cohen) and was first recorded (4 times) in 1926 by the redoutable Rev. J.M. Gates and later by various hillbilly artists, including Henry and Emry Arthur in 1928. The Carters did not record it until 1935, and 2 copyrights (1935 and 1937) were taken out in the Carters' names! The story of Hezekiah's bout with sickness, God's threat, Hezekiah's repentance, and Isaiah's promise of fifteen additional years of life is told in 2 Kings 20:1-11 (repeated almost verbatim inIsaiah 38) and briefly summarized in 2 Chronicles 32:24-26.
It was collected in 1922 by Brown. According to Dorothy Scarborough who printed a version in 1925: "A more sinister aspect of train-arrival is in another Holy Roller song from Texas. The little black train here represents Death, and the passengers for whom seats are reserved appear not to be crowding eagerly about the ticket window. This train had no schedule, but, like other public carriers, is uncertain in its time arrival and departure. But a delay here brings forth no complaints against the management."
Other names include: "Gospel Train," "Gospel Train Is Coming" "Death's Black Train Is Coming." "Little Black Train Is A-Comin' "
The Little Black Train- Carter Family
There's a little black train a comin'
Set your business right
There's a little black train a comin'
And it may be here tonight
Go tell that ball room lady
All dressed in the worldly pride
That death's dark train is coming
Prepare to take a ride
God said to Hezekiah
A message from on high
You better set your house in order
For you must surely die
He turned to the wall in weeping
We see him here in tears
He got his business fixed all right
God spared him fifteen years
We see that train with engine
And one small baggage car
Your idle thoughts and wicked deeds
Will stop at the judgment bar
That poor young man in darkness
Cares not for the gospel light
'Til suddenly he heard the whistle blow
And the little black train in sight
Have mercy on me lord
Please come and set me right
Before he got his business fixed
The train rolled in that night
Little Darlin' Pal of Mine was recorded by the Caters in 1928 in their 2nd session for Peer and Victor. The melody is the spiritual "When The World's On Fire." It's also titled "Little Sweetheart Pal Of Mine" or "My Little Girl." Apparently this is the song Woody Guthrie used for the melody of "This Land Is Your Land." Jimmie Rodgers covered the song when he visited with the Carter Family and they recorded together in 1931.
According to Maybelle, A.P. wrote the song. Clearly it's based on traditional lyrics and A.P. probably came up with the "little darlin' pal of mine" line, which essential makes the song his.
LITTLE DARLING PAL OF MINE- Carter Family 1928
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Many a night while you lay sleeping
Dreaming of your rambler's life
Lay a poor boy brokenhearted
Listening to the wind outside
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Many a day with you I've rambled
Countless hours with you I've spent
Thought I had your heart forever
But I found it only lent
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
There is just three things I wish for
That's a casket, shroud, and grave
When I'm dead, don't weep for me
Just kiss those lips that you betrayed
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine
"Little Joe" was recorded by the Carters two times first as Darling Little Joe. The song is really the "Death of Little Joe" by Marsten in 1866. See info/lyrics in an earlier blog under "Darling Little Joe."
Little Log Cabin by the Sea is based on "The Bible in the Cabin by the Sea" by W.C. Hapley in 1903. Hapley also wrote "We'll Meet Beyond the Grave." It was also recorded as "The Bible My Daddy Left to Me" by Whitey and Hogan. Here's The Carter Family's "Little Old Log Cabin by the Sea" Vi 21074 which was recorded in Bristol, Tennessee, August 1, 1927. Reissued on The Carter Family 'Anchored in Love' Rounder CD 1064. Also reissued on Various Artists 'The Bristol Sessions' Country Music Foundation CD CMF-011-D.
LITTLE LOG CABIN BY THE SEA
There is a precious volume all finger-worn and holed
In that little log cabin by the sea
It is the old, old bible, more precious now than gold
'Tis the bible that my mother gave to me
'Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
How often I have listened to the tempest howl and rave
Round that little log cabin by the sea
While mother read of Jesus who walked upon the wave
How Jesus calmed the storm in Galilee
'Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
How often, oh how often she read the flowing word
Read the message from the precious word of God
They have told of faithful Daniel who trusted in the Lord
While she led me in the pathway that she trod
Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
There is no other volume so precious as this book
It tells me how to live and how to die
It tells me of that city, oh wondrous, wondrous look
And that I'll meet the loved ones by and by
Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
Little Log Hut in the Lane is usally titled, "I'm Going From the Cottonfields" which is a song (Going From De Cottonfields) by Thomas Westendorf from 1879. It was recorded first by Frank Crummit then by Hugh Cross. The Carters or Peer surely changed the title to avoid copyright problems.
Here's a link: http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?aasm:2:./temp/~ammem_8c06::@@@mdb=mcc,gottscho,detr,nfor,wpa,aap,cwar,bbpix,cowellbib,calb Curiously the authors of the Carter biography Mark Zwonitzer and Charles Hirshberg got this wrong. They attribute the Carters "Little Log Hut in the Lane" to Hayes "Little Old log Cabin in the Lane," a different song. Oops!
THE LITTLE LOG HUT IN THE LANE- Carter Family
[INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Mama says she don't want me
Because I'm getting old
Scared that I might freeze to death
The weather is so cold
If I live till nightI think I will try
When the moon goes down tonight
I'm going to say goodbye
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Now I'm old and feeble
And I cannot see my way
Mama says I'm old and gray
And only in the way
I'm leaving the little log hut
The place I love to dwell
When the stars shine bright tonight
I'm going to bid farewell
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
LITTLE MOSES is gospel ballad about story of Moses harmonized by G.R. Street circa 1871. The lyrics are traditional. The song was collected by Belden as "Moses in the Bulrushes" in 1905. Randolph 662, "Little Moses" has 1 text. "By the Side of a River" is another title. If anyone has the Belden lyrics please post for comparison.
LITTLE MOSES- Carter Family 1929
Away by the river so clear, the ladies were winding their way
And Pharaoh's little daughter stepped down in the water
To bathe in the cool of the day
Before it was dark she opened the ark
And found the sweet infant was there
Before it was dark she opened the ark
And found the sweet infant was there
And away by the river so blue, the infant was lonely and sad
She took him in pity and thought him so pretty
And it made little Moses so glad
She called him her own, her beautiful son
And sent for a nurse that was near
She called him her own, her beautiful son
And sent for a nurse that was near [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
And away by the river so clear, they carried the beautiful child
To his own tender mother, his sister and brother
Little Moses looked happy and smiled
His mother so good done all that she could
To rear him and teach him with care
His mother so good done all that she could
To rear him and teach him with care [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
And away by the sea that was red, little Moses, the servant of God
While in him confided the sea was divided
As upward he lifted his rod
The Jews they could cross while Pharaoh's host
Was drowned in the waters and lost
The Jews they could cross while Pharaoh's host
Was drowned in the waters and lost
And away on the mountain so high, the last one that ever might see
While in his victorious, his hope was most glorious
He'd soon o'er the Jordan be free
When his labors did cease he parted in peace
And rested in the heavens above
When his labors did cease he parted in peace
And rested in the heavens above
Little Poplar Log House on the Hill is a song the Carters covered that was done by the Callahan Brothers on August 16, 1934. The Carter Family recorded their version 6 years later. Somehow this song is still attributed to A.P.
Little Poplar Log House On The Hill- Carter Family 1940
Now kind friends I want to tell you
Of a little country home
It is made of poplar logs upon the hill
That's where father died and left us
When we were very young
And our mother kept us settled on he hill
CHORUS: When our days work on the farm was done
She'd would gather us around
She would have us get down on our little knees
She would pray for God to keep us
Through the night until next
In our little old poplar log house on the hill
Our father died a good man
Which we all would like to do
And I'm going there to see him some old day
When I'm get through with my singing
Lay my guitar by my side
Lord I want to play in heaven when I die
Lonesome for You is taken from the 1918 song "I Know What It Means To Be Lonesome" by Brockman and Vincent- words and Kendis- music.
LONESOME FOR YOU- Carter family
Now I know what it means to be lonesome
And I know what it means to be blue
And I know what it means to be lonesome in dreams
When there's someone missing you
'Cause I've tried and I've tried since we've parted
And there is no one know what I gone through
I'd give all that I own just to have you back home
'Cause I'm lonesome, lonesome for you
My best friend left me this morning
As the clock was striking four
And the smiling face of my darling
I may not see no more
Now I know what it means to be worried
To be all lonesome and blue
For the one that I love so dearly
Has turned her back on me
Oh, my mind is full of sorrow
And my heart is filled with pain
And I feel so broken-hearted
Won't you please come back again
'Cause I've tried and I've tried since we've parted
And there is no one know what I gone through
I'd give all that I own just to have you back home
'Cause I'm lonesome, lonesome for you
"Lonesome for You Darling" was recorded in 1940 by the Carters. I haven't been able to find the source yet. Anyone?
Lonesome For You Darling- Carter Family
I am lonesome for you darling
Though from me you're far away
In a lonely little cottage
I am waiting day by day
Though you went away and left me
Left me alone in this old world
How it hurt me little darling
To hear you say those parting words
I can see you in the moonlight
Strolling down lover's lane
I know it's you I love my darling
Won't you take me back again
Do you think we could be happy?
Do you think we could be true?
To the one that's always loved you
No one loves you like I do
Won't you take me back my darling
So I can prove my love to you
If you'll accept me little darling
We will start our lives anew
I will take you back my darling
If you promise to be true
Let me look my little darling
In your loving eyes of blue
We are happy now together
In the moonlight all alone
And we'll settle down forever
In our little cottage home
Lonesome Homesick Blues is one of the few songs written by Maybelle Carter. According to the Carters biographers she wrote the song when she was missing Eck, her husband. She also used a blues lick learned from Leslie Riddle.
LONESOME HOMESICK BLUES- Maybelle Carter
I've got the lonesome homesick blues
I've got them bad, babe, down in my shoes
I love someone there that I might lose
That's why I've got these old homesick blues
It makes me homesick to hear your name
And hold you, dear, in my arms again
I'm a-gonna ride that lonesome train
To the one I left in Maces Springs [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
You told me once, dear, you loved me so
And it's on my mind everywhere I go
I'll soon be knowing if it is so
Or has your love for me grown cold.
Oh, listen to that old lonesome train
It's a-gonna carry me back again
To the one that told me their love was true
I'll spend the rest of my days with you [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I've been away, babe, a long, long time
Now I'm riding down this old railroad line
And the one I love there I hope to find
To ease this lonesome blue heart of mine.
Lonesome Pine Special is a railroad song that was attributed to Sara Carter by Janette Carter in a talk to a music class at Warren Wilson College. Janette is the daughter of Sara and A.P. Carter.
LONESOME PINE SPECIAL- Sara Carter
I was walking out this morning
With rambling on my mind
I am going to catch the special
That train called Lonesome Pine.
You can hear the whistle blowin'
And she's coming down the line
That's the train I catch this morning
To ease my troubling mind
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home.
Oh, I'm weeping like a willow
And I'm mourning like a dove
There's a girl way out in Texas
That I know I really love
Oh, I'm going back to Texas
Where the lonesome coyotes whine
Where the longhorn cattle are roaming
'Round that cabin home of mine
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Oh, give me back my rifle
Oh, give me back my gun
Give me back my home in Texas
And my rambling days are done
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home
Lonesome Valley, a spiritual from both white and black sources, was recorded by the Carters in 1930 and in 1935. The song was probably from Leslie Riddle but popular versions by both Dalhart and Jenkins had been circulating. The earliest recording "That Lonesome Valley" was done in 1925 by the Jenkins Family. There's a blues version by Blind Willie McTell, "I Got to Cross the River of Jordan." Other names include:
You Got To Cross It Foh Yohself
Walk This Lonesome Valley
You've Got to Walk That Lonesome Valley
Hark of All
We Shall Walk Through the Valley
John the Baptist
You Got to Stand a Test
Certaintly the basic lyrics in different forms were part of the black culture before the Civil War. These lyrics are The Atlantic Monthly - 1864- Page 589: Go down in de Lonesome Valley, Go down in de Lonesome Valley, my Lord, Go down in de Lonesome Valley, To meet my Jesus dere !
LONESOME VALLEY- Carter Family
Everybody's got to walk this lonesome valley
We've got to walk it by ourselves
There's nobody here can walk it for us
We've got to walk it by ourselves
My father's got to walk this lonesome valley
He's got to walk it by himself
There's nobody here can walk it for him
He's got to walk it by himself [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
My mother's got to walk this lonesome valley
She's got to walk it by herself
There's nobody here can walk it for her
She's got to walk it by herself
All sinners got to walk this lonesome valley
They've got to walk it by themselves
There's nobody here can walk it for them
They've got to walk it by themselves [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Everybody's got to walk this lonesome valley
We've got to walk it by ourselves
There's nobody here can walk it for us
We've got to walk it by ourselves
Longing for Old Virginia was recorded by the Carters in 1934 is originally titled "I'm Longing for Old Virginia and You" by E. Clinton Keithley and published by George Root. Here's a link:http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/sheetmusic/devincent.do?&id=LL-SDV-233002&q1=LL-SDV-233002&sid=b44f347a88044020ea6f427033ac596a
Longing For Old Virginia- Carter Family
'Mid the green fields of Virginia, dear I met you
Where the roses red and white around us grew
When I held you in my arms and gently kissed you
The robins sang the sweetest song we knew
I'm longing for old Virginia, for old Virginia and you
And I'm hoping the soul within you is longing for me too
To Virginia, just like the ivy, my heart clings ever true
And I reckon in the spring I'll bring a little ring
To old Virginia and you
Though tonight I'm far from you and old Virginia
I still love you as I did that day in June
And when springtime comes again to old Virginia
I'll build a little cottage just for two
Look Away from the Cross is based on "From the Cross To The Crown" by F.L. Eiland in 1895 (1901 by Meade). Professor F.L. Eiland, was a noted hymn writer whose "Hold to God's Unchanging Hands" became widely used in American churches. Here's a bio: http://www.therestorationmovement.com/eiland.htm The Carters lyrics are identical to the original lyrics:
Look Away From The Cross- Carter Family 1940
Look away from the cross to that glittering crown
From your cares weary ones look away
There's a home for the soul where no sorrows can come
And there pleasure will never decay
Look away (weary ones look away) look away (from the cross to the crown)
From the cross to that glittering crown (glittering crown)
Look away (look away weary ones) look away (from the cross to the crown)
From the cross to that glittering crown
Though these burdens of life may be heavy to bear
And your crosses and trials severe
There's a beautiful hand that is beckoning come
And no heartache and sighings are there
Mid the conflicts of battles of struggles and strife
Bravely onward your journey pursue
Look away look away from the cross to that glittering crown
That's a waiting in heaven for you
Look How This World Has Made a Change is a traditional spiritual arranged by J.B Vaughan in 1912 and recorded by the famous Vaughan Quartet in 1928. The Vaughan Quartet arguably made the first Country Music recordings (Tony Russell) in 1921.
LOOK HOW THIS WORLD HAS MADE A CHANGE- Carter Family 1937
We see our friends are weeping with the badges on their door
We see their homes in mourning for the loved ones come no more
You can say just what you please, death rides on every breeze
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Our friends are passing over to some far distant shore
We seek them and we call them but they answer us no more
Their throbbing hearts today tomorrow pass away
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Dear sinner, oh get ready, you must meet your God on high
For death is all around you and it will not pass you by
Death knocks at every door no matter where you go
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change
Lord, I'm in Your Care is another traditional spiritual and is sometimes titled "Oh Lord, I'm in your Care." It was recorded first by Edward Clayborn in 1927; then Rev. Jm Gates in 1934. The Carters recorded their version in 1937. The Carters may have learned this through Riddle and his friend gospel singer Pauline Gary or Peer (since it was recorded by Victor previously).
LORD I'M IN YOUR CARE- Carter Family
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
All day long I'm in your care
All day long I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
When I was sick, I was in your care
When I was sick, I was in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
I'm a friendless child, but I'm in your care
I'm a friendless child, but I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
The Carter's 1903 "Lover's Farewell" is based on the earlier song "We Have Met and We Have Parted" which is dated by Meade as circa 1870s. Several versions of "We Have Met and We Have Parted" were collected in the early 1930s (Melinger Henry; JOAFL) and the two recordings unfortunately (one in 1928) were never issued.
All the variants are based on "Thou Hast Learned to Love Another" or "Farewell, farewell, Forever" by Charles Slade published in 1849.Here's a link:http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=mussm&fileName=sm2/sm1849/451000/451430/mussm451430.db&recNum=0&itemLink=D?mussm:6:. The song was popular and there were numerous broadsides and ballets printed as well as other printed versions.
Lover's Farewell-Carter Family 1930
We have met and we have parted
We have spoke our last goodbye
You have proved to me false hearted
You may now forever go
You have wrecked the heart I've cherished
You have done me day by day
You are false but I'll forgive you
To forget you I cannot say
For I love you dear I love you
More than all this world I know
You have proved to me false-hearted
You may now forever go
On the river bank I'll loiter
Till I see your face once more
Then I'll plunge beneath the water
And I'll land on some far shore
Among the trees and bushes
Where the dark green willow sway
In the cold and silent rushes
There you'll find my lonely grave
Oh I wish I was white marble
Cold and white on some far shore
This poor heart would cease from troubling
And I'd feel the pain no more
"Lover's Lane" was apparently the first title for the song "You're The Girl of My Dreams." The song could be a rewrite of "Down de Lover's Lane" by Will Marion Cook c 1900.
LOVER'S LANE- Carter Family
I first met you down in lover's lane
You were just like an angel
With an angel's golden wings
We walked along, we sang a song
The birds were singing, too
It seems like heaven's here on earth
Just to be again with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
At night we'd sit out in the old porch swing
The stars were shining brightly
And softly you would sing
You'd sing of happy days gone by
It makes me happy, too
It'd be like heaven here on earth
If I could be with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I first met you down in lover's lane
You were just like an angel
My little brown-eyed Jane
We walked along, we hummed a song
The birds were singing, too
It seems like heaven's here on earth
Just to be again with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true
Back to the Carter Family songs! First some news: I've finished my painting of Little Maggie- the first night painting in the series. My band Crossroads will be playing at Pop's Place in Louisville this Sat. Jan 24.
The original Carter Family had 23 songs titled with the letter L. One of the L songs Little Joe was already covered under the title Darling Little Joe.
Last Move for Me;
Lay My Head Beneath the Rose;
Let the Church Roll On;
Let's Be Lovers Again;
Little Black Train;
Little Darlin' Pal of Mine;
Little Joe (See: Darling Little Joe);
Little Log Cabin by the Sea;
Little Log Hut in the Lane;
Little Moses;
Little Poplar Log House on the Hill;
Lonesome for You;
Lonesome for You Darling;
Lonesome Homesick Blues;
Lonesome Pine Special;
Lonesome Valley;
Longing for Old Virginia;
Look Away from the Cross;
Look How This World Has Made a Change;
Lord, I'm in Your Care;
Lover's Farewell;
Lover's Lane;
Lover's Return;
Lulu Walls;
Last Move for Me was recorded June 8, 1936 in NYC and is another gospel song the Carters did by Herbert Buffum. "When I make My Last Move" was written by Herbert Buffum (1879-1939) around 1926.
THE LAST MOVE FOR ME- Carter Family
I've been traveling for Jesus so much of my life
Been traveling o'er land and on sea
But I'm planning on taking a trip to the sky
That will be the last move for me
When I move to the sky up in heaven so high
What a wonderful time that will be
I'm ready to go, washed in Calvary's flow
That will be the last move for me [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I've seen wonderful sights as I've traveled afar
How little, how empty they seem
When I make my last move to that city of gold
That will be the last move for me
CHORUS [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Here I'm bothered with packing each time that I move
And carry a load in each hand
But I'll not need one thing that I've used in this world
When I move to that heavenly land
CHORUS
Everything that I'll need will be furnished up there
Not even my songbooks I'll bring
Or the precious old Bible that showed me the way
I'll not need when I stand by my King
CHORUS:
When I Make My Last Move- Herbert Buffum (Original lyrics)
I have been traveling for Jesus, so much of my life
I have been traveling on land and on sea
But I am counting on taking a trip to the sky
That will be the last move for me!
I have seen wonderful sights as I have traveled afar
But how little, how empty it will seem
When I make my last move to that City Of God
And behold what no vision could dream.
There will be prophets, who I will meet over there
Whose teachings have guided me right
I shall meet the Apostles and Jesus my Lord
I believe I shall know them at sight.
Here I am bothered with packing
And I carry a load in each hand
But I will not need one thing, I have used in this world,
When I move to that Heavenly Land.
When I move to the sky, up to Heaven on High,
What a wonderful trip that will be,
I am already to go Washed in Calvary's flow,
That will be the last move for me!
"Lay My Head Beneath the Rose" is a song the Carters did in 1936 that was made popular by Vernon Dalhart in 1926. "Lay My Head Beneath A Rose" was written by Ned Straight in 1879. Madison and Faulkenstein also published a version in 1897 which was published again in 1936 (1946) and surprisingly has copyright restrictions.
The sheet music may have been reissued beacuse of the Carter or Dalhart recordings. This is another example of a song with an invalid copyright. Both the Levy and Indiana sheet msuic will not display the sheet music.
Lay My Head Beneath The Rose- Carter Family
Darling, clasp me to your bosom
As you did in days of yore
Lay your hand upon my forehead
'Ere I reach the golden shore
Life is from me fastly falling
Soon I'll be in sweet repose
When I'm gone I ask this favor
Lay my head beneath the rose
Darling, first you said you loved me
When you gave me hand and heart
There were roses on your cheeks, love
As we vowed we ne'er would part
One more kiss for I am going
Far beyond all earthly woe
May your life be like your cheeks, love
Covered with the blossomed rose
He has crossed the shadowed valley
Where the living waters flow
Love has answered all his pleading
And he sleeps in sweet repose
'Neath a grassy mound he's resting
Where the golden sunset glows
Love has answered all his pleading
And he sleeps in sweet repose.
"Let the Church Roll On" is a spiritual that was popular in the 1920s was recorded first by the African-American group, the Norfolk Jubilee Quartet in 1926. It was recorded 5 times before the Carters 1931 Charlotte, NC recording for Victor. The Carters learned the song from Leslie Riddle and also through his friend gospel singer Pauline Gary from Kingsport.
LET THE CHURCH ROLL ON- Carter Family/Leslie Riddle
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're gamblers in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Turn them out)
And let the church roll on [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're drunkards in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Turn them out)
And let the church roll on [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
There're members in the church (My good Lord)
And they won't do right (Oh, my Lord)
What're you gonna do (Take some new ones that could)
And let the church roll on
Let the church roll on (My good Lord)
Let the church roll on (Oh, my Lord)
Turn him out (Turn him out)
And let the church roll on
Let's Be Lovers Again is a song from Gussie Davis in 1893 titled, "Jack and May (Make Up and Be Lover's Again)". It's been recorded as "Jack and May" as well as the "Let's be Sweet hearts/Lovers/Friends" titles. The Carters recorded their version in 1935.
LET'S BE LOVERS AGAIN- Carter Family
Jack and MaySweethearts were they
They were engaged to be wed
Many a promise he made her
Many a love word he said
As most lovers do
They quarreled one night
She bid him not come anymore
She gave him his hatJack started away
But he lingered to stay at the door
Chorus: Tie up those broken cords
And lets be lovers again
Darling, you know I love you
To part would give me pain
Let us forget the past
And make up, my pet
Make up and be lovers again.
Years rolled byNeither were wed
All of Jack's pleadings were vain
One quiet evening poor Jack was found dead
All through life in dismay
Two lives that have been wrecked
But she loves, oh, too late
She goes to his grave every day
She can't tell you why
But it seems to her cry
The wind seems to whisper and say
Little Black Train is a tradition gospel song dating back to the late 1800s (Cohen) and was first recorded (4 times) in 1926 by the redoutable Rev. J.M. Gates and later by various hillbilly artists, including Henry and Emry Arthur in 1928. The Carters did not record it until 1935, and 2 copyrights (1935 and 1937) were taken out in the Carters' names! The story of Hezekiah's bout with sickness, God's threat, Hezekiah's repentance, and Isaiah's promise of fifteen additional years of life is told in 2 Kings 20:1-11 (repeated almost verbatim inIsaiah 38) and briefly summarized in 2 Chronicles 32:24-26.
It was collected in 1922 by Brown. According to Dorothy Scarborough who printed a version in 1925: "A more sinister aspect of train-arrival is in another Holy Roller song from Texas. The little black train here represents Death, and the passengers for whom seats are reserved appear not to be crowding eagerly about the ticket window. This train had no schedule, but, like other public carriers, is uncertain in its time arrival and departure. But a delay here brings forth no complaints against the management."
Other names include: "Gospel Train," "Gospel Train Is Coming" "Death's Black Train Is Coming." "Little Black Train Is A-Comin' "
The Little Black Train- Carter Family
There's a little black train a comin'
Set your business right
There's a little black train a comin'
And it may be here tonight
Go tell that ball room lady
All dressed in the worldly pride
That death's dark train is coming
Prepare to take a ride
God said to Hezekiah
A message from on high
You better set your house in order
For you must surely die
He turned to the wall in weeping
We see him here in tears
He got his business fixed all right
God spared him fifteen years
We see that train with engine
And one small baggage car
Your idle thoughts and wicked deeds
Will stop at the judgment bar
That poor young man in darkness
Cares not for the gospel light
'Til suddenly he heard the whistle blow
And the little black train in sight
Have mercy on me lord
Please come and set me right
Before he got his business fixed
The train rolled in that night
Little Darlin' Pal of Mine was recorded by the Caters in 1928 in their 2nd session for Peer and Victor. The melody is the spiritual "When The World's On Fire." It's also titled "Little Sweetheart Pal Of Mine" or "My Little Girl." Apparently this is the song Woody Guthrie used for the melody of "This Land Is Your Land." Jimmie Rodgers covered the song when he visited with the Carter Family and they recorded together in 1931.
According to Maybelle, A.P. wrote the song. Clearly it's based on traditional lyrics and A.P. probably came up with the "little darlin' pal of mine" line, which essential makes the song his.
LITTLE DARLING PAL OF MINE- Carter Family 1928
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Many a night while you lay sleeping
Dreaming of your rambler's life
Lay a poor boy brokenhearted
Listening to the wind outside
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Many a day with you I've rambled
Countless hours with you I've spent
Thought I had your heart forever
But I found it only lent
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
There is just three things I wish for
That's a casket, shroud, and grave
When I'm dead, don't weep for me
Just kiss those lips that you betrayed
My little darling, oh, how I love you
How I love you none can tell
In your heart you love another
Little darling pal of mine
"Little Joe" was recorded by the Carters two times first as Darling Little Joe. The song is really the "Death of Little Joe" by Marsten in 1866. See info/lyrics in an earlier blog under "Darling Little Joe."
Little Log Cabin by the Sea is based on "The Bible in the Cabin by the Sea" by W.C. Hapley in 1903. Hapley also wrote "We'll Meet Beyond the Grave." It was also recorded as "The Bible My Daddy Left to Me" by Whitey and Hogan. Here's The Carter Family's "Little Old Log Cabin by the Sea" Vi 21074 which was recorded in Bristol, Tennessee, August 1, 1927. Reissued on The Carter Family 'Anchored in Love' Rounder CD 1064. Also reissued on Various Artists 'The Bristol Sessions' Country Music Foundation CD CMF-011-D.
LITTLE LOG CABIN BY THE SEA
There is a precious volume all finger-worn and holed
In that little log cabin by the sea
It is the old, old bible, more precious now than gold
'Tis the bible that my mother gave to me
'Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
How often I have listened to the tempest howl and rave
Round that little log cabin by the sea
While mother read of Jesus who walked upon the wave
How Jesus calmed the storm in Galilee
'Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
How often, oh how often she read the flowing word
Read the message from the precious word of God
They have told of faithful Daniel who trusted in the Lord
While she led me in the pathway that she trod
Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
There is no other volume so precious as this book
It tells me how to live and how to die
It tells me of that city, oh wondrous, wondrous look
And that I'll meet the loved ones by and by
Tis the old, precious bible, blessed bible
That she read in the cabin by the sea (by the sea)
It's a precious, precious bible, a blessed, blessed bible
The bible that my mother gave to me
Little Log Hut in the Lane is usally titled, "I'm Going From the Cottonfields" which is a song (Going From De Cottonfields) by Thomas Westendorf from 1879. It was recorded first by Frank Crummit then by Hugh Cross. The Carters or Peer surely changed the title to avoid copyright problems.
Here's a link: http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?aasm:2:./temp/~ammem_8c06::@@@mdb=mcc,gottscho,detr,nfor,wpa,aap,cwar,bbpix,cowellbib,calb Curiously the authors of the Carter biography Mark Zwonitzer and Charles Hirshberg got this wrong. They attribute the Carters "Little Log Hut in the Lane" to Hayes "Little Old log Cabin in the Lane," a different song. Oops!
THE LITTLE LOG HUT IN THE LANE- Carter Family
[INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Mama says she don't want me
Because I'm getting old
Scared that I might freeze to death
The weather is so cold
If I live till nightI think I will try
When the moon goes down tonight
I'm going to say goodbye
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Now I'm old and feeble
And I cannot see my way
Mama says I'm old and gray
And only in the way
I'm leaving the little log hut
The place I love to dwell
When the stars shine bright tonight
I'm going to bid farewell
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I'm going from the cotton field
I'm going from the cane
I'm going from that little log hut
That stands down in the lane [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
LITTLE MOSES is gospel ballad about story of Moses harmonized by G.R. Street circa 1871. The lyrics are traditional. The song was collected by Belden as "Moses in the Bulrushes" in 1905. Randolph 662, "Little Moses" has 1 text. "By the Side of a River" is another title. If anyone has the Belden lyrics please post for comparison.
LITTLE MOSES- Carter Family 1929
Away by the river so clear, the ladies were winding their way
And Pharaoh's little daughter stepped down in the water
To bathe in the cool of the day
Before it was dark she opened the ark
And found the sweet infant was there
Before it was dark she opened the ark
And found the sweet infant was there
And away by the river so blue, the infant was lonely and sad
She took him in pity and thought him so pretty
And it made little Moses so glad
She called him her own, her beautiful son
And sent for a nurse that was near
She called him her own, her beautiful son
And sent for a nurse that was near [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
And away by the river so clear, they carried the beautiful child
To his own tender mother, his sister and brother
Little Moses looked happy and smiled
His mother so good done all that she could
To rear him and teach him with care
His mother so good done all that she could
To rear him and teach him with care [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
And away by the sea that was red, little Moses, the servant of God
While in him confided the sea was divided
As upward he lifted his rod
The Jews they could cross while Pharaoh's host
Was drowned in the waters and lost
The Jews they could cross while Pharaoh's host
Was drowned in the waters and lost
And away on the mountain so high, the last one that ever might see
While in his victorious, his hope was most glorious
He'd soon o'er the Jordan be free
When his labors did cease he parted in peace
And rested in the heavens above
When his labors did cease he parted in peace
And rested in the heavens above
Little Poplar Log House on the Hill is a song the Carters covered that was done by the Callahan Brothers on August 16, 1934. The Carter Family recorded their version 6 years later. Somehow this song is still attributed to A.P.
Little Poplar Log House On The Hill- Carter Family 1940
Now kind friends I want to tell you
Of a little country home
It is made of poplar logs upon the hill
That's where father died and left us
When we were very young
And our mother kept us settled on he hill
CHORUS: When our days work on the farm was done
She'd would gather us around
She would have us get down on our little knees
She would pray for God to keep us
Through the night until next
In our little old poplar log house on the hill
Our father died a good man
Which we all would like to do
And I'm going there to see him some old day
When I'm get through with my singing
Lay my guitar by my side
Lord I want to play in heaven when I die
Lonesome for You is taken from the 1918 song "I Know What It Means To Be Lonesome" by Brockman and Vincent- words and Kendis- music.
LONESOME FOR YOU- Carter family
Now I know what it means to be lonesome
And I know what it means to be blue
And I know what it means to be lonesome in dreams
When there's someone missing you
'Cause I've tried and I've tried since we've parted
And there is no one know what I gone through
I'd give all that I own just to have you back home
'Cause I'm lonesome, lonesome for you
My best friend left me this morning
As the clock was striking four
And the smiling face of my darling
I may not see no more
Now I know what it means to be worried
To be all lonesome and blue
For the one that I love so dearly
Has turned her back on me
Oh, my mind is full of sorrow
And my heart is filled with pain
And I feel so broken-hearted
Won't you please come back again
'Cause I've tried and I've tried since we've parted
And there is no one know what I gone through
I'd give all that I own just to have you back home
'Cause I'm lonesome, lonesome for you
"Lonesome for You Darling" was recorded in 1940 by the Carters. I haven't been able to find the source yet. Anyone?
Lonesome For You Darling- Carter Family
I am lonesome for you darling
Though from me you're far away
In a lonely little cottage
I am waiting day by day
Though you went away and left me
Left me alone in this old world
How it hurt me little darling
To hear you say those parting words
I can see you in the moonlight
Strolling down lover's lane
I know it's you I love my darling
Won't you take me back again
Do you think we could be happy?
Do you think we could be true?
To the one that's always loved you
No one loves you like I do
Won't you take me back my darling
So I can prove my love to you
If you'll accept me little darling
We will start our lives anew
I will take you back my darling
If you promise to be true
Let me look my little darling
In your loving eyes of blue
We are happy now together
In the moonlight all alone
And we'll settle down forever
In our little cottage home
Lonesome Homesick Blues is one of the few songs written by Maybelle Carter. According to the Carters biographers she wrote the song when she was missing Eck, her husband. She also used a blues lick learned from Leslie Riddle.
LONESOME HOMESICK BLUES- Maybelle Carter
I've got the lonesome homesick blues
I've got them bad, babe, down in my shoes
I love someone there that I might lose
That's why I've got these old homesick blues
It makes me homesick to hear your name
And hold you, dear, in my arms again
I'm a-gonna ride that lonesome train
To the one I left in Maces Springs [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
You told me once, dear, you loved me so
And it's on my mind everywhere I go
I'll soon be knowing if it is so
Or has your love for me grown cold.
Oh, listen to that old lonesome train
It's a-gonna carry me back again
To the one that told me their love was true
I'll spend the rest of my days with you [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I've been away, babe, a long, long time
Now I'm riding down this old railroad line
And the one I love there I hope to find
To ease this lonesome blue heart of mine.
Lonesome Pine Special is a railroad song that was attributed to Sara Carter by Janette Carter in a talk to a music class at Warren Wilson College. Janette is the daughter of Sara and A.P. Carter.
LONESOME PINE SPECIAL- Sara Carter
I was walking out this morning
With rambling on my mind
I am going to catch the special
That train called Lonesome Pine.
You can hear the whistle blowin'
And she's coming down the line
That's the train I catch this morning
To ease my troubling mind
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home.
Oh, I'm weeping like a willow
And I'm mourning like a dove
There's a girl way out in Texas
That I know I really love
Oh, I'm going back to Texas
Where the lonesome coyotes whine
Where the longhorn cattle are roaming
'Round that cabin home of mine
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Oh, give me back my rifle
Oh, give me back my gun
Give me back my home in Texas
And my rambling days are done
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Well, ah-le-ho, ah-le-ho-lay
Take me back to Texas
Back to my old home
Lonesome Valley, a spiritual from both white and black sources, was recorded by the Carters in 1930 and in 1935. The song was probably from Leslie Riddle but popular versions by both Dalhart and Jenkins had been circulating. The earliest recording "That Lonesome Valley" was done in 1925 by the Jenkins Family. There's a blues version by Blind Willie McTell, "I Got to Cross the River of Jordan." Other names include:
You Got To Cross It Foh Yohself
Walk This Lonesome Valley
You've Got to Walk That Lonesome Valley
Hark of All
We Shall Walk Through the Valley
John the Baptist
You Got to Stand a Test
Certaintly the basic lyrics in different forms were part of the black culture before the Civil War. These lyrics are The Atlantic Monthly - 1864- Page 589: Go down in de Lonesome Valley, Go down in de Lonesome Valley, my Lord, Go down in de Lonesome Valley, To meet my Jesus dere !
LONESOME VALLEY- Carter Family
Everybody's got to walk this lonesome valley
We've got to walk it by ourselves
There's nobody here can walk it for us
We've got to walk it by ourselves
My father's got to walk this lonesome valley
He's got to walk it by himself
There's nobody here can walk it for him
He's got to walk it by himself [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
My mother's got to walk this lonesome valley
She's got to walk it by herself
There's nobody here can walk it for her
She's got to walk it by herself
All sinners got to walk this lonesome valley
They've got to walk it by themselves
There's nobody here can walk it for them
They've got to walk it by themselves [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Everybody's got to walk this lonesome valley
We've got to walk it by ourselves
There's nobody here can walk it for us
We've got to walk it by ourselves
Longing for Old Virginia was recorded by the Carters in 1934 is originally titled "I'm Longing for Old Virginia and You" by E. Clinton Keithley and published by George Root. Here's a link:http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/sheetmusic/devincent.do?&id=LL-SDV-233002&q1=LL-SDV-233002&sid=b44f347a88044020ea6f427033ac596a
Longing For Old Virginia- Carter Family
'Mid the green fields of Virginia, dear I met you
Where the roses red and white around us grew
When I held you in my arms and gently kissed you
The robins sang the sweetest song we knew
I'm longing for old Virginia, for old Virginia and you
And I'm hoping the soul within you is longing for me too
To Virginia, just like the ivy, my heart clings ever true
And I reckon in the spring I'll bring a little ring
To old Virginia and you
Though tonight I'm far from you and old Virginia
I still love you as I did that day in June
And when springtime comes again to old Virginia
I'll build a little cottage just for two
Look Away from the Cross is based on "From the Cross To The Crown" by F.L. Eiland in 1895 (1901 by Meade). Professor F.L. Eiland, was a noted hymn writer whose "Hold to God's Unchanging Hands" became widely used in American churches. Here's a bio: http://www.therestorationmovement.com/eiland.htm The Carters lyrics are identical to the original lyrics:
Look Away From The Cross- Carter Family 1940
Look away from the cross to that glittering crown
From your cares weary ones look away
There's a home for the soul where no sorrows can come
And there pleasure will never decay
Look away (weary ones look away) look away (from the cross to the crown)
From the cross to that glittering crown (glittering crown)
Look away (look away weary ones) look away (from the cross to the crown)
From the cross to that glittering crown
Though these burdens of life may be heavy to bear
And your crosses and trials severe
There's a beautiful hand that is beckoning come
And no heartache and sighings are there
Mid the conflicts of battles of struggles and strife
Bravely onward your journey pursue
Look away look away from the cross to that glittering crown
That's a waiting in heaven for you
Look How This World Has Made a Change is a traditional spiritual arranged by J.B Vaughan in 1912 and recorded by the famous Vaughan Quartet in 1928. The Vaughan Quartet arguably made the first Country Music recordings (Tony Russell) in 1921.
LOOK HOW THIS WORLD HAS MADE A CHANGE- Carter Family 1937
We see our friends are weeping with the badges on their door
We see their homes in mourning for the loved ones come no more
You can say just what you please, death rides on every breeze
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Our friends are passing over to some far distant shore
We seek them and we call them but they answer us no more
Their throbbing hearts today tomorrow pass away
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
Dear sinner, oh get ready, you must meet your God on high
For death is all around you and it will not pass you by
Death knocks at every door no matter where you go
Look how this world has made a change
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
Just look how this world has made a change(made a change)
You can see every day how the people pass away
Look how this world has made a change
Lord, I'm in Your Care is another traditional spiritual and is sometimes titled "Oh Lord, I'm in your Care." It was recorded first by Edward Clayborn in 1927; then Rev. Jm Gates in 1934. The Carters recorded their version in 1937. The Carters may have learned this through Riddle and his friend gospel singer Pauline Gary or Peer (since it was recorded by Victor previously).
LORD I'M IN YOUR CARE- Carter Family
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Oh, Lord, I'm in your care
All day long I'm in your care
All day long I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
When I was sick, I was in your care
When I was sick, I was in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
I'm a friendless child, but I'm in your care
I'm a friendless child, but I'm in your care
Your loving arms around me
Evil cannot harm me
Lord, I'm in your care
The Carter's 1903 "Lover's Farewell" is based on the earlier song "We Have Met and We Have Parted" which is dated by Meade as circa 1870s. Several versions of "We Have Met and We Have Parted" were collected in the early 1930s (Melinger Henry; JOAFL) and the two recordings unfortunately (one in 1928) were never issued.
All the variants are based on "Thou Hast Learned to Love Another" or "Farewell, farewell, Forever" by Charles Slade published in 1849.Here's a link:http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ampage?collId=mussm&fileName=sm2/sm1849/451000/451430/mussm451430.db&recNum=0&itemLink=D?mussm:6:. The song was popular and there were numerous broadsides and ballets printed as well as other printed versions.
Lover's Farewell-Carter Family 1930
We have met and we have parted
We have spoke our last goodbye
You have proved to me false hearted
You may now forever go
You have wrecked the heart I've cherished
You have done me day by day
You are false but I'll forgive you
To forget you I cannot say
For I love you dear I love you
More than all this world I know
You have proved to me false-hearted
You may now forever go
On the river bank I'll loiter
Till I see your face once more
Then I'll plunge beneath the water
And I'll land on some far shore
Among the trees and bushes
Where the dark green willow sway
In the cold and silent rushes
There you'll find my lonely grave
Oh I wish I was white marble
Cold and white on some far shore
This poor heart would cease from troubling
And I'd feel the pain no more
"Lover's Lane" was apparently the first title for the song "You're The Girl of My Dreams." The song could be a rewrite of "Down de Lover's Lane" by Will Marion Cook c 1900.
LOVER'S LANE- Carter Family
I first met you down in lover's lane
You were just like an angel
With an angel's golden wings
We walked along, we sang a song
The birds were singing, too
It seems like heaven's here on earth
Just to be again with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
At night we'd sit out in the old porch swing
The stars were shining brightly
And softly you would sing
You'd sing of happy days gone by
It makes me happy, too
It'd be like heaven here on earth
If I could be with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
I first met you down in lover's lane
You were just like an angel
My little brown-eyed Jane
We walked along, we hummed a song
The birds were singing, too
It seems like heaven's here on earth
Just to be again with you
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]
You're just the girl of my dreams
Though it seems that my dreams never come true
Friday, January 16, 2009
Article in Bluegrass Now
Hi,
My article on Bury Me Beneath the Willow appeared in Bluegrass Now in Dec. For now the link still works:
http://www.bluegrassnow.com/article.php?id=205
Unfortunately Bluegrass Now has gone the way of many publications and the article appears in their last issue.
Richard
My article on Bury Me Beneath the Willow appeared in Bluegrass Now in Dec. For now the link still works:
http://www.bluegrassnow.com/article.php?id=205
Unfortunately Bluegrass Now has gone the way of many publications and the article appears in their last issue.
Richard
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
new video
Here is the video of my band Crossroads playing "Black Magic Woman" at Stevie Ray's last night.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxyC8cLpaOI
This is first time we ever played with all four members together.
Richard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxyC8cLpaOI
This is first time we ever played with all four members together.
Richard
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Hi,
I've joined Facebook and also have some paintings on the site:
http://apps.facebook.com/interests/galleries/show.php?interest_id=193&owner_id=638706837
I can put more paintings on so I might be able to get most of my paintings up. I have a few close-ups on there as well.
I'll be working on the Carter Family this weekend. I'll try and go through all their songs this month. I also have links to listen free online.
Have a gr8 day!
Richard
I've joined Facebook and also have some paintings on the site:
http://apps.facebook.com/interests/galleries/show.php?interest_id=193&owner_id=638706837
I can put more paintings on so I might be able to get most of my paintings up. I have a few close-ups on there as well.
I'll be working on the Carter Family this weekend. I'll try and go through all their songs this month. I also have links to listen free online.
Have a gr8 day!
Richard
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Flickr
Hi,
I 've also started an account on Flickr where you can view my bluegrass paintings:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bluegrass_music_and_art/
Richard
I 've also started an account on Flickr where you can view my bluegrass paintings:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bluegrass_music_and_art/
Richard
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Bluegrass Paintings Viewed
Hi,
Happy New Year!
I've got info and 5 bluegrass paintings on a web-site here (click on left top to see different pages): http://richardmattesonart.mosaicglobe.com/page/7454
I've almost finished my project on Mudcat Discussion forum here: http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?ThreadID=117018
This is a group effort but I've put all the info together in summary form. It's certainly the most comprehensive look at the Carters song to date, combining the work of Gus Meade, Charles Wolfe and others.
I'll be adding to the Carters songs until we've looked at all of them. I've got some artwork to be done soon. I should have more paintings to view by the end of the month.
That's all for now,
Richard Matteson
Happy New Year!
I've got info and 5 bluegrass paintings on a web-site here (click on left top to see different pages): http://richardmattesonart.mosaicglobe.com/page/7454
I've almost finished my project on Mudcat Discussion forum here: http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?ThreadID=117018
This is a group effort but I've put all the info together in summary form. It's certainly the most comprehensive look at the Carters song to date, combining the work of Gus Meade, Charles Wolfe and others.
I'll be adding to the Carters songs until we've looked at all of them. I've got some artwork to be done soon. I should have more paintings to view by the end of the month.
That's all for now,
Richard Matteson
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