It is a traditional Old-Time/Bluegrass song that is predominant to the Appalachian Mountain region of the United States. This song is dated to the early 1900's, however, this particular tune, in its variety of versions can be traced back to the Scottish in the 1820's as "The Lass of Roch Royal."
None of this is truly a surprise, if you are acquainted with American history, as you will know that many Scotsmen settled in the Southern United States and in this particular mountain region. Obviously they would have brought their ballads, laments and music with them, which then in turn influenced the direction of music from that point forward.
This is a great version of it--it is haunted, melancholic, and has a moan to it that gets me right in the heart. It is by Black Prairie who I hadn't heard of before. The group is comprised of some of the members of The Decemberists, which I am mildly familiar. The sense of haunted loss within this version is particularly powerful.
This version is more traditional and is one I came across a couple of months back. I love the video. I like the fog, the cold, the sound, just the whole thing really speaks to me. The song is more upbeat than the previous version.
This is a clip from a most melancholic and sad movie "Chrystal" with Billy Bob Thornton. Lisa Blount, the actress who plays Chrystal in the movie, is actually the one that is singing in this clip. Again, her version comes across achy and lost. The movie takes place in Northern Arkansas and is full of melancholy, loss, regret and redemption. Lisa Blount's performance captures all of these things.
The last clip I am sharing is one that I came across a few days ago. It's a personalized, non professional recording, but the individual is utilizing a Bouzouki and I really enjoyed his performance.
After listening to these versions of this song, I'm hoping that you can appreciate why I love it so much. There is an antiquity and a timelessness to the song that connects people through the generations. As human beings, at times we feel alone, and lost and broken, but despite this there is always hope, whether we see it or not. I think this song feels and breathes of life as humans experience it, with ups and downs.
Anyway--Welcome to my collection. I hope you enjoyed it.
2 comments:
The foggy traditional version of Red Rocking Chair was filmed in Alaska. Recognized it from the get go. I thought it was the docks from Haines (just south of Skagway) but it's not. Just thought you'd like to know why it speaks to you :)
Thanks---I love it. I love it and it's melancholy and loneliness and desperation. Hugs Mr. Z. ;)
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