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John Riley

  • (Ricky Neff / Trad)

    Fair young maid all in the garden
    Strange young man, passer-by
    Said, Fair maid will you marry me
    This then, sir, was her reply

    Oh no, kind sir, I cannot marry thee
    For I've a love who sails all on the sea
    He's been gone for seven years
    Still no man shall marry me

    What if he's in some battle slain
    Or drowned in the deep salt sea
    What if he's found another love
    And he and his love both married be

    If he's in some battle slain
    I will die when the moon doth wane
    If he's drowned in the deep salt sea
    I'll be true to his memory

    And if he's found another love
    And he and his love both married be
    I wish them health and happiness
    Where they dwell across the sea

    He picked her up all in his arms
    And gave her kisses one two three
    Saying, Weep no more, my own true love
    I'm your long lost John Riley

    (as sung by Joan Baez)

Susannes Folksong-Notizen

  • [1964:] It was a hard choice to decide which of several versions of this famous old song was my favorite. [Not above version] (Seeger, Rhymney 26)

  • [1965:] This tale of constant lovers with its denouement of "recognition" is a favorite American traditional ballad. Collectors have found it in many parts of the United States and it is believed that the original is from a British broadside of the late 18th century. The version [above] is transcribed from the singing of Joan Baez. (Reprint Sing Out 8, 79)

Quelle: USA

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