Folk Files

Robbers, bandits, highwaymen…there are a lot of English folk songs about outlaws. In this episode of Folk Files, we’ll look at why there are so many songs about criminals and what patterns exist in these ballads. Then, we’ll look at Robbers’ Retreat in an attempt to figure out why the song (also known as Cadgwith Anthem) doesn’t seem to follow any of those patterns.Host: Olivia HardingSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast*This episode of Folk Files was recorded on the road. Apologies for any lapses in quality.*Musical excerpts:ARTIST: Steeleye SpanWORK: Cadgwith AnthemSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMBpPYA8ebYARTIST: Ewan MacCollWORK: Alan Tyne O’HarrowSOURCE: https://ewanmaccoll.bandcamp.com/track/alan-tyne-o-harrowARTIST: Martin CarthyWORK:  Newlyn TownSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM7hDJI85uIARTIST: Roger McGuinnWORK: Whiskey in the JarSOURCE: https://youtu.be/i8iAp0mTKjo?si=htJCj3YzGDz4UWsoARTIST: Loreena McKennittWORK: The HighwaymanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YGFo0xn4JeYARTIST: Ewan MacCollWORK: The Crafty FarmerSOURCE: https://youtu.be/GT_uXRERmsE?si=bNwLhDjFCXB9yuijARTIST: Magpie LaneWORK: The Highwayman OutwittedSOURCE: https://youtu.be/kXHL6omuz3c?si=pnX3AOzB6sbfoNZuARTIST: Jackie OatesWORK: Robbers’ RetreatSOURCE: https://youtu.be/ZzPA52DWzwM?si=ZkM3a4WDugEpC4ypARTIST: The Mousehole Male Voice ChoirWORK: The Cadgwith AnthemSOURCE: https://youtu.be/yXFIUuWARB0?si=mgpBLQqoKOYtge7NARTIST: The Longest JohnsWORK: Cadgwith AnthemSOURCE: https://youtu.be/UiBlnnN2PWU?si=78Mzy7npMptFomP1ARTIST: Bounding MainWORK: Cadgwith AnthemSOURCE: https://youtu.be/KQbYYnoM3wM?si=UF20bLf7VaKn-lGD

This episode of Folk Files looks at a family of songs where the main character “dies for love.” In particular, I explore “The Butcher Boy,” a song with American, Irish, and English versions. The versions vary drastically: they swap out characters, drop details, and change the reasoning behind the narrator’s decisions. I investigate what effect these changes have on the listener and what lessons we can draw from those effects.Host: Olivia HardingCheck out more from Pollyanna: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Rgyvnw9WrAm20MhlS2kyp?si=irIKZtNOTFaZWDOt9mh0cASpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast*This episode of Folk Files was recorded on the road. Apologies for any lapses in quality.*Musical excerpts:ARTIST: Alisa MarieWORK: O’Carolan’s CupSOURCE: https://youtu.be/zrBwqFco0Xs?si=-SdsYnEWGiD5SnFOARTIST: Sarah MakemWORK: The Butcher BoySOURCE: https://youtu.be/x_mtUaBHWCE?si=tBXVy9ELCV9dECghARTIST: Derek and Hazel SarjeantWORK: A Sailor Coming Home on LeaveSOURCE: https://youtu.be/e91Ug-CAjAc?si=sMcd-NpQC-FQmNSLARTIST: Music the GatheringWORK: Johnny Jump UpSOURCE: https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album-esexeARTIST: Frank ProfittWORK: Morning FairSOURCE: https://youtu.be/wdyO1890Zpc?si=1esdsYhrRNWTg7zDARTIST: Sam LeeWORK: Over Yonders HillSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2jcdbFRRYcARTIST: The Kings of CalicuttWORK: Sheffield ParkSOURCE: https://youtu.be/o1lDKhJd6Pw?si=XWyn9hQQ3ImN2PRqARTIST: BellowheadWORK: Cold Blows the WindSOURCE: https://youtu.be/WvuxL8UQiLQ?si=Sdr7Zz7yUVEXi7zgARTIST: Jean RitchieWORK: Go Dig My GraveSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGrcOqcbzYkARTIST: The Clancy BrothersWORK: The Butcher BoySOURCE: https://youtu.be/WMc8QSxZe_M?si=PIv8GZyRL_1vkSRDARTIST: Buell KazeeWORK: Butcher’s BoySOURCE: https://youtu.be/lwSJoMNRGuI?si=fehdH-zflcTkTbY2ARTIST: PollyannaWORK: Railroad BoySOURCE: https://pollyanna.bandcamp.com/album/man-time-deluxe-edition

Welcome to Part II of Folk Files’ exploration of the history of folk instruments! Learn about the origins and etymology of accordions, concertinas, harmonicas, bagpipes, whistles, and a sampling of percussion! (Recorded with a head cold - please excuse any stuffiness).Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcastMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Duo SynkroWORK: Live at Paris Bal FolkSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1XgiYjo1HEARTIST: Wu WeiWORK: Sheng performance with Helsinki PhilharmonicSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xios4KtjG2AARTIST: Mark KloegWORK: Cantiga 100SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtWazpkuz7oARTIST: Paul YoungWORK: Michael’s JigSOURCE: https://youtu.be/f8TX7jO-_es?si=AWS2GmtPtNJhMRMcARTIST: Sofia RosWORK: La CampanellaSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ARC2YxsbE0ARTIST: Nick AriondoWORK: Flight of the BumblebeeSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxTOwXEy2MoARTIST: Yuxin DingWORK: The EntertainerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8kmUkDwgIsARTIST: Sonny Boy WilliamsonWORK: Bye Bye BirdSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-PhBryFuIMARTIST: Carlos VivesWORK: Hijo de VallenatoSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORzwHmeJAmUARTIST: Piper Jones BandWORK: Live at the Loch Norman Scottish Festival 2023SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teJu3_eJGnMARTIST: Chris McMullanWORK: The Limerick LamentSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Dm3EpfuxuG0ARTIST: Christy BarryWORK: Traditional Irish Tin Whistle Music (Doolin Style)SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpN36I9xr-oARTIST: Spokes MashiyaneWORK: A song off the 1959 album “King Kwela”SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adyM1Gx1lHUARTIST: John Joe KellyWORK: Bodhrán solo from “Island Songs”SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi1G-A-wdu0ARTIST: Abby “The Spoon Lady” and Lyle RickardsWORK: I’ll Fly AwaySOURCE: https://youtu.be/Ibye4LNpWD8?si=Y5wPiddyQXs5Pmj1ARTIST: Dom FlemonsWORK: How To Play the Bones with Dom FlemonsSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMokBr9cTxM

This episode of Folk Files takes a departure from folk songs to talk about folk instruments! Learn about the history, ancestors, and etymology of folky string instruments, including the banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and guitar!Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=trueMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Ekona DiattaWORK: GambiaSOURCE: https://youtu.be/FHCpjVrGDNk?si=90XYIILixvtyxtMRARTIST: The Harper and the MinstrelWORK: Cantiga 353SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVrfqvHVbdUARTIST: Valentina NicolaiWORK: Il BallerinoSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wfx7WcyG5sIARTIST: Ragnhild HemsingWORK: ValdresgutenSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYSVDG8ZFNwARTIST: Chris ThileWORK: Jessamyn’s ReelSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88q9syere0QARTIST: RAVNWORK: In Nature #2SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cCM04Qvx2wARTIST: Edward FosterWORK: Ja Nus Hons PrisSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mfDscXoY8AARTIST: Bernardo de PaceWORK: The Wizard of the MandolinSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHfQTzDnz9sARTIST: Rolf LislevandWORK: UnknownSOURCE: https://youtu.be/jUd_Tl3N3wE?si=X60gcIMUodA_J3wZARTIST: Mariachi Juvenil PerlaWORK: El CascabelSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SVCsqs3VscARTIST: Justin JohnsonWORK: Justin Johnson Plays the Diddley BowSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8Ic3j7f5GUARTIST: Miles Caton (Sinners 2025 Soundtrack)WORK: Travelin’SOURCE: https://youtu.be/1hC9X81x7nY?si=xW18W3o91LS2RTEaARTIST: Sol HoopiiWORK: PaloloSOURCE: https://youtu.be/kPzqjmgi2-I?si=PC7eTQXuaPmCuRceARTIST: The Lady VictoriaWORK: King of the FairiesSOURCE: https://youtu.be/QuYm9wvTvkc?si=v2wN0FT2YmDgk_RvARTIST: Frontier Culture MuseumWORK: O du lieber AugustineSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTAtHhG7H6AARTIST: Joni MitchellWORK: California (Live)SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5BnE5_lPqEARTIST: Scott MarshallWORK: UnknownSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvBSXocQog0ARTIST: UnknownWORK: OrganistrumSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5J1cQs7CM

This episode explores the variations, history, and geography of the bluegrass song “The Roving Gambler.”Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Ashford King, The Cecil Sharp House/Ralph Vaughan Williams Library, and Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Listen to Ashford King: https://open.spotify.com/album/1IZwE0c1mzOQtd3nnWn8nE?si=A5AenKxXRvmAiM_duUVHPgSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=trueMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Doc WatsonWORK: The Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhTcFh_jAnMARTIST: Larry SparksWORK: Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVrfqvHVbdUARTIST: Albert SalleeWORK: Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/1771ARTIST: Donna EverettWORK: Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/1221ARTIST: Rambling Jack ElliottWORK: Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B5BHG5G1P8ARTIST: The CorriesWORK: Roving JourneymanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5LzHSci1LgARTIST: Harry BrazilWORK: Rambling IrishmanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDaC883iJjoARTIST: Tom WillettWORK: The Roving JourneymanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_DoReXQMRMARTIST: Delia MurphyWORK: Roving JourneymanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bztY9bHbbVAARTIST: Samantha BumgarnerWORK: The Gamblin’ ManSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWfszrzc51Q&t=121sARTIST: Leroy GardnerWORK: Gambling ManSOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/2942ARTIST: The Wolfe TonesWORK: Paddy Lay BackSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QqpcENtS-sARTIST: Joan BaezWORK: The Trees They Do Grow HighSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7Lcw0ZIWcARTIST: The Staple SingersWORK: Move Along TrainSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fdbij67yUsARTIST: Alison KraussWORK: Down to the River To PraySOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SZv7JJqcNYARTIST: Clancy Brothers and Robbie O’ConnellWORK: MoonshinerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Du8Naz_iAg4ARTIST: Johnny WhistletriggerWORK: Guerrilla ManSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VB1OweaWbxcARTIST: Ashford KingWORK: Roving GamblerSOURCE: https://open.spotify.com/track/5rkkQsz2EC9VaFTnAJWAHJ?si=213e5631c1a04ca0

From 1986-1991, a “Singing Revolution” took place in the Baltic states, leading to their independence from the Soviet Union. This episode of Folk Files looks at the rich musical history that paved the way for the Singing Revolution to occur and provides an introduction to Estonian folk and choral music. (Apologies for any horrible Estonian pronunciation).Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Cliff S., Ramona Holmes, and Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Musical excerpts:ARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019WORK: Mu isamaa on minu armSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTdOiCa0-4oARTIST: Tuule KannWORK: Estonian Folk Music Instrument: KANNELSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lqpRd9kU_oARTIST: Timo Lige / Students from HiiumaaWORK: Kiigelaul (A Swinging Song)SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x5QslTDXW4ARTIST: Written by L. Raudkepp, Composed by J. Aavik WORK: Hoia, jumal EestitSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O9D0ZN1kkIARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019WORK: KoiSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_cCvMuDLTgARTIST: Eteläsuomalaisen Osakunnan LaulajatWORK: Kangakudumise laulSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izYbVvt-DPoARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2014WORK: Mis need ohjad meida hoidvadSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHuaIz6ZK6sARTIST: Tartu Boys ChoirWORK: Mu isamaa on minu armSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oX4yvG5ApUARTIST: Tartu Boys ChoirWORK: Veel kaitse Kalev oma lapsiSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbdpHz4s7-4ARTIST: Ell TaburWORK: Lenda, lenda, lepalindSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oSswM_7sBYARTIST: Tallinna KammerkoorWORK: Priiuse hommikulSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru-picL-OzoARTIST: Tallinna Meestelaulu SeltsWORK: Üks kindel linn ja varjupaikSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B37doTWWFwkARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019WORK: TuljakSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k2lsqm8JLkARTIST: Singers at Öölaulupidu 2008WORK: Ei ole üksi ükski maaSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3BSN0P8-no

He goes bare, he lives by the air, and he wants no drink nor money…or does he? In this episode, we explore the songs and stories surrounding Tom of Bedlam. Where did the modern tune come from? And why is the title misleading? Hold on to your hat and your sanity for this musical journey to Pluto’s kitchen and beyond.Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Musical excerpts:ARTIST: HeritageWORK: Mad Tom of BedlamSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gAxNVcyKm4ARTIST: The HalliardWORK: Boys of BedlamSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0EUadGMU3YARTIST: Catherine BottWORK: Mad MaudlinSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSNoYGtdDiUARTIST: Country Dance & Song SocietyWORK: Tom O’Bedlam’s SongSOURCE: https://cdss.org/publications/listen/song-of-the-month/january-2022-song-of-the-month/ARTIST: David Pryor (Recorded by Alan Lomax and Mary Elizabeth BarnicleWORK: When the Whale Get StrikeSOURCE: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-alan-lomax-collection-deep-river-of-song-bahamas-1935/2675148ARTIST: Kate PriceWORK: Mad Tom of BedlamSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubPeBpchVxMARTIST: Old Blind DogsWORK: Bedlam Boys/Rights of ManSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMkmbfW_XKEARTIST: Steeleye SpanWORK: Boys of BedlamSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uz9tggUNlIUARTIST: Music the GatheringWORK: Tom of BedlamSOURCE: LVL 3 - https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album

Greenland Whale Fisheries is the featured song in this episode of Folk Files. While delving into the origins of the song, we will explore other ballads about Greenland and dip our toes into the extensive history of whaling. Well row’d, jolly trouts!  Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Pegmouth, ARRR!!!, and Aaron J. Morton Musical excerpts: ARTIST: ARRR!!! WORK: Greenland Whale Fisheries SOURCE: Plunderstruck (2010) ARTIST: Peter, Paul, and Mary WORK: Greenland Whale Fisheries SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKsJrFy4Q_E ARTIST: The Watersons WORK: The Greenland Whale Fishery SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzMQYfRexUU ARTIST: A.L. Lloyd WORK: The Greenland Whale Fishery SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEOzI4IEkF0 ARTIST: David Pryor (Recorded by Alan Lomax and Mary Elizabeth Barnicle) WORK: When the Whale Get Strike SOURCE: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-alan-lomax-collection-deep-river-of-song-bahamas-1935/2675148 ARTIST: Stan Rogers WORK: Northwest Passage SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVY8LoM47xI ARTIST: Clanna Morna WORK: Bonnie Ship the Diamond SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i51KjpPvRKU ARTIST: Judy Collins WORK: Farewell to Tarwathie SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qV29xK2xyZ4 ARTIST: Whales! (recorded by the Oceania Project)  WORK: Whale Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WabT1L-nN-E

Happy Holidays! In this episode of Folk Files, we will explore the history, lore, and significance of plants in Christmas carols, with a special emphasis on the Holly and the Ivy! Host: Olivia Harding Special Thanks To: Aaron J. Morton Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Trio of Nyckelharpas (from The Nyckelharpa Effect) WORK: The Holly and the Ivy SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86dkwTJWWZk ARTIST: Golden Bough WORK: The Holly and the Ivy SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmOshQR0ohI ARTIST: Sara Stowe WORK: Green Groweth the Holly SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dK8lhhhJMrw ARTIST: Magpie Lane WORK: The Holly and the Ivy SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U75XxVMNPf4 ARTIST: Cornwall County Youth Choir WORK: St. Day Carol SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7blutTNm1E ARTIST: Jean Ritchie WORK: Cherry Tree Carol SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnAVmDszkEA ARTIST: The King’s Singers WORK: Es ist ein Ros entsprungen SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7y05TrzeHo ARTIST: Apollo5 WORK: A Spotless Rose SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzN1UzVa7zA ARTIST: Vienna Boys Choir WORK: O Tannenbaum SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9U1gJy8AvE ARTIST: Kate Rusby WORK: Mistletoe Bough SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJD8Q9d3_6c ARTIST: Steeleye Span WORK: Mistletoe Bough SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTM7fZNxLiY ARTIST: The Bird and the Bee WORK: 12 Days of Christmas SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rh55aMvP-lU ARTIST: St Mary’s College Choir WORK: Pukeko in a Ponga Tree SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uV7xoRU7Fw

Welcome to Filk Files! But what is Filk? And why are there so many aliens, adventurers, hobbits, muppets, and nerds in this episode? Host: Olivia Harding Guest Speakers: Daisy O’Danny, Marc Gunn, Andrew McKee, Dan Marcotte You can find the full interviews with each guest speaker (including a video interview with the Brobdingnagian Bards!) as well as other goodies on the Folk Files Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast. All the proceeds from this month’s purchases will be donated to the RESCU Foundation. Special Thanks To: Aaron J. Morton Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Arthur Rowan WORK: Trooper’s Lament SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgMrUDGiOC4 ARTIST: Rowan and the Rose WORK: Australian Shore SOURCE: https://www.rowanandtherose.com/product-page/favorite-things-2016-digital ARTIST: Daisy O’Danny WORK: The Irish Rover SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vz1SDrNhaLc ARTIST: Dan the Bard WORK: Fred the Ranger SOURCE: https://www.danthebard.com/category/all-products ARTIST: Weird Al Yankovic WORK: The Saga Begins SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEcjgJSqSRU ARTIST: Brobdingnagian Bards WORK: If I Had A Million Ducats SOURCE: https://brobdingnagianbards.bandcamp.com/track/if-i-had-a-million-ducats-2 ARTIST: Brobdingnagian Bards WORK: Hobbit’s Dance SOURCE: https://brobdingnagianbards.bandcamp.com/track/hobbits-dance ARTIST: Daisy O’Danny WORK: Boot and Rally SOURCE: https://www.patreon.com/c/folkfilespodcast/shop ARTIST: Mikey Mason WORK: Best Game Ever SOURCE: https://mikeymason.bandcamp.com/track/best-game-ever ARTIST: Mikey Mason WORK: Shades of Gray SOURCE: https://mikeymason.bandcamp.com/track/shades-of-gray ARTIST: Roll That Die WORK: Bard City SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtmZRJMlrFc ARTIST: Tom Smith WORK: A Boy and His Frog SOURCE: https://tomsmith.bandcamp.com/track/a-boy-and-his-frog

This episode of Folk Files discusses songs involving infanticide. “The Well Below the Valley” and “The Cruel Mother” stand at the center of this heartbreaking voyage through historical records, Scandinavian folklore, and murder ballads.Host: Olivia HardingJoin the Folk FIles Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcastSpecial Thanks To: Aaron J. MortonNote: Because it’s always true in folk songs, when I refer to pregnant people in general, I say “women”. However, the difficulties I discuss (postpartum maladies, access to medical care, etc.) affect people of all genders.Musical excerpts:ARTIST: Christy MooreWORK: Well Below the ValleySOURCE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylZGw7tfAHIARTIST: Polly PaulusmaWORK: The Maid and the PalmerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUILSHtxYWIARTIST: SähköpaimenWORK: Mataleena på KällebroSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAk_knoRDdEARTIST: Brass MonkeyWORK: The Maid and the PalmerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIeZ953yUc4ARTIST: Hack-Poets GuildWORK: Cruel MotherSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pzvqeBHsSgARTIST: Alasdair RobertsWORK: The Cruel MotherSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIOANdvjRqYARTIST: Bryndís SveinbjörnsdóttirWORK: Móðir mín í kví, kvíSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtKTkSMO5UsARTIST: Shirley CollinsWORK: The Cruel MotherSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8a3DuJrjwtsARTIST: Ewan MacCollWORK: Sheath and KnifeSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=787wXkYcdHYARTIST: Nick HartWORK: Lucy WanSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TihjH0G_0H0

Episode 9 is all about birds! Embark on a journey around the world to sample bird songs and birdsong. Along the way, listen to the mockingbird, help the blackbird find his missing pieces, and rumple up the cuckoo’s nest. Note: This was recorded on the road (away from the studio) so please excuse any loss of audio quality! Host: Olivia Harding Join the Folk FIles Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Beatrice Harrison WORK: “Actually recorded in Beatrice Harrison's Garden, Oxted” SOURCE:  https://youtu.be/QPxT95WwIBM?si=wreVzzkJVYWt6kWt ARTIST: Recorded by the BBC WORK: “Nightingales Sing As RAF Bombers Fly” SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_MHqW5KVds&t=4s ARTIST: Sam Lee WORK: Blackbird SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDQMVFgRv10 ARTIST: Unknown WORK: Sarika Keo Euy SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-jcF5jr6Ic ARTIST: Cote Godoy WORK: En Un Lejano Bosque SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-buGB5jM_IE ARTIST: Savanna Tríóïð WORK: Sa ég spóa SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoiihIzaD5g ARTIST: Mohamed Fawzi WORK: Zahab al-leil SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdPNR47biiI ARTIST: The Brown Madrigal Singers WORK: Of All the Birds That I Do Know SOURCE: 2010 Holiday Concert ARTIST: Steeleye Span WORK: Drink Down the Moon SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sGBhvJuNBw ARTIST: Oberkirchen Choir WORK: Kuckuck, Kuckuck SOURCE: https://youtu.be/s8J8aGe0Pe8?si=RM3Wrkz8fjCdbbK6 ARTIST: Rising Appalachia WORK: Cuckoo SOURCE: https://youtu.be/h6ow2Z5Jh9Y?si=0mi84w2KziN1hBtv ARTIST: Cosmo Sheldrake WORK: Cuckoo Song SOURCE: https://youtu.be/cbQyFZmuA58?si=UgLUJ7K6o9B5VHAF ARTIST: Tonton Dezirab WORK: Ti Zwazo SOURCE: https://youtu.be/b5zzeW6YuJc?si=NNm7daTxNo0LONaq ARTIST: Mitamaiyu Primary WORK: Kanyoni Kanja SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0x4nSfjchvg ARTIST: Dolly Parton and Stuart Duncan WORK: Listen to the Mockingbird SOURCE: https://youtu.be/vqYYkWwfYhs?si=PU0fHePemEcx4jko ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Misirloucuckoo’s Nest SOURCE: https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album-esexe

“Shady Grove” is an Appalachian folk song that is often linked to the English ballad “Matty Groves”. But what is the actual relationship between them? This episode of Folk Files discusses the meaning of “Shady Grove” and untangles the origins of these two songs. Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J Morton. Join the Folk Files Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Doc Watson WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0f-dCMSVKQ ARTIST: Jean Ritchie WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFw78zP39Y4 ARTIST: Jennifer Goree WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.ghostmeat.com/jennifergoree.html ARTIST: Michael Johnathon WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvsTIvwgNI0 ARTIST: Jerry Garcia and the Sleepy Hollow Hog Stompers WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZBuFXlISkQ ARTIST: Billy Strings WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGScvVTHqQo ARTIST:The Kingston Trio WORK: Old Joe Clark SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BS7dH-CYed0 ARTIST: Kentucky Thorobreds WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46eBbMhB-TI ARTIST: Hedy West WORK: Barbara Allen SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzTAsbdztMY ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album-petnc-8c8hy ARTIST: Peggy Seeger and Ewan MacColl WORK: Matty Groves SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdyUqIfGa1Y ARTIST: Martin Carthy  WORK: Little Musgrave and Lady Barnard SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wt7-hYd7PdM ARTIST: Fairport Convention WORK: Matty Groves SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1it7BP5PckI ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aacCgKWGoWg

This month’s episode focuses on folk songs from the British Isles where the main character dresses, acts, or lives in a way that challenges gender norms. It also offers a glimpse into the work of “Queer Folk”, an English organization that highlights traditional songs with LGBTQIA+ themes. Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Shiloh DeFabia, Lafayette Matthews, and Aaron J Morton. Learn more about Queer Folk: https://www.queerfolk.co.uk/ Join the Folk Files Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Sophie Crawford and George Sansome (Queer Folk) WORK: Jack Went A-Sailing SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sRO-DVLprA ARTIST: Philip Langridge, arr. Benjamin Britten WORK: Sweet Polly Oliver SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ7ulITPfqs ARTIST: Gog Magog Molly WORK: The Polychromatic Parrot (at Sidmouth) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVELKeXEf8Q ARTIST: TransAction Theatre WORK: The Ballad of the Female Husband SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbKZuYRL5VM&t=0s ARTIST: Sophie Crawford (Queer Folk) WORK: Our Captain Calls All Hands SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9e7nWijLR0 ARTIST: Ian Robb WORK: The Female Rambling Sailor SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdWBhmsktJU ARTIST: Gavin Atkin WORK: Short Jacket and White Trousers SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FDJsEtgrns ARTIST: A.L. Lloyd WORK: Sovay the Female Highwayman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh_KXPXmgI8 ARTIST: Cilla Fisher and Artie Trezise WORK: Billy Taylor SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34HIv_MgH54 ARTIST: Finbar Furey WORK: New York Girls SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGqSEFaa94Y ARTIST: Nic Jones WORK: Barrack Street SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nmS1iCbqe4 ARTIST: Bryony Griffith and Alice Jones WORK: The Tailor’s Breeches / New Year’s DaySOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqjiL7PWUZA ARTIST: Amy Thatcher and Holly Clarke (Queer Folk) WORK: That Lulu Business SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lx6ecSBsjPQ

April is dead and summer is a-coming in! This episode of Folk Files explores the tradition of May songs and festivals, specifically focusing on Hal an Tow and the Flora Day celebrations in Cornwall. Morris dancing, maypoles, and the origin of May Day are also discussed. Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Stephen Winick, Donna Smith, Aaron J. Morton, The Soup Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Marc Block WORK: Hal an Tow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgBzSNOc3A8 ARTIST: Ranarim WORK: Maj vare välkommen SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7wXcJiGH-o ARTIST: The Halekulani Girls WORK: May Day is Lei Day SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3GuJp2PZPU ARTIST: The Watersons WORK: Hal an Tow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5kyvYoiS8c ARTIST: Helston Flora Day, recorded by artcornwall.org WORK: Hal an Tow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rftBZKbZRg ARTIST: Shirley Collins And The Albion Country Band WORK: Hal-an-Tow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5vUj6j8hjI ARTIST: David Hansen WORK: The Helston Furry Dance SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tGk9RODnRw ARTIST: The Ashdown Forest Morris Men, recorded by Britclip WORK: May Day 2024 SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXhh8ClqDaw ARTIST: Lillian Short WORK: Robin Hood SOURCE: Vance Randolph Collection AFC 1941/001: AFS 5263 B2 (https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2022/05/more-about-hal-an-tow-early-evidence-of-a-may-song/) ARTIST: Roger Miller WORK: Oo-De-Lally SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsyG3-IlY3Y ARTIST: Richard Thompson WORK: Sumer Is Icumen In SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKikjYdf1DA ARTIST: Lisa Knapp WORK: Till April is Dead SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fe-WWMHQASg

Wayfaring Stranger is the featured song in this episode of Folk Files, which explores the history of Appalachia, shape note tradition, and the difficulties of tracing the origins of early American folk music. Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. Morton, Jo Morton, Lucas "Whiskey Richards" Husted, and Mary White-HardingMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Jack WhiteWORK: Wayfaring StrangerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25P08So3rfIARTIST: Cherokee National Youth ChoirWORK: North WindSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_7j3qx-QrsARTIST: Detlef KorsenWORK: Ich Bin Ein Gast Auf ErdenSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0ia7MiVqRcARTIST: Ireland Sacred Harp ConventionWORK: Wayfaring StrangerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dL4AVKA6tMARTIST: The United Shape Note Singers of West Georgia and the Associated Note Singers of AtlantaWORK: What a Happy TimeSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUwHIEb19UgARTIST: Texas Sacred Harp SingersWORK: What Wondrous LoveSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRpV9H9ZpB0ARTIST: ARRR!!!WORK: The Ballad of Captain KiddSOURCE: Let’s Get Kraken: https://arrr-pirates.bandcamp.com/album/lets-get-krakenARTIST: Rhiannon GiddensWORK: Wayfaring StrangerSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1Z4PAZX9BsARTIST: Ewan McCollWORK: Dowie Dens of YarrowSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NfTplWa0mgARTIST: Second WindWORK: Wayfaring StrangerSOURCE: Deco Lounge, April 6 2024

This episode of Folk Files traces the roots of popular sea shanties to Black work songs and African folk traditions. Full list of referenced works: https://jmp.sh/gcOBH83N To jump into the Black origins of country music, start here: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2022/10/black-country-music-legacy/671818/ https://time.com/5673476/ken-burns-country-music-black-artists/ Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to Cherie and Michael Albert Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Paul Clayton and the Fo’c’sle Singers WORK: Haul Away Joe SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x73TAgmZYAM ARTIST: The Longest Johns WORK: Spanish Ladies SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3wzlHYzsg8 ARTIST: Ed Lewis and Prisoners from Parchman, Mississippi WORK: I Be So Glad When the Sun Goes Down SOURCE: https://youtu.be/C-zlSq4mWiE?si=fnGu-f8ZgGbMmv0- ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Sundown Below SOURCE: LVL 1 ARTIST: Assassin’s Creed: Rogue WORK: Donkey Riding SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgfLP3gMh0Y ARTIST: David Coffin WORK: Roll the Old Chariot SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJtgjG0x9Mw ARTIST: Planxty WORK: Sally Brown SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0Bq4-fCH0c ARTIST: Sam Lee WORK: Knock a Man Down SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NoUAQhY-g8 ARTIST: Bernard Wrigley et. al. WORK: Haul Away for Rosie SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1DugYkOOd0 ARTIST: Coon Creek Girls WORK: Jim Along Josie SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztG-7-P_G-w ARTIST: Lead Belly WORK: Haul Away Joe SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEoHm1GBQtU ARTIST: The Barroualie Whalers WORK: Tinnego SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwL5lpVt1Mk ARTIST: The Menhaden Chanteymen WORK: [Title Unknown] SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geAJI6he75I

Ahoy! This episode of Folk Files explores the strange history of Mingulay, the island at the center of the Mingulay Boat Song. The episode also delves into the difference between sea shanties and fo’c’sle songs and discusses the tradition of naming songs “[Scottish Island] Boat Song”.  Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton, Asia Lupo, Marc Mills, Arne Parrott, Joseph Maurer, Cherie Hopton Albert, and Michael Albert Musical excerpts: ARTIST: ARRR!!! WORK: Mingulay Boat Song SOURCE: Scourge of the Open Waters ARTIST: Tom Sullivan WORK: Paddy Lay Back SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLLf4eC5pRA ARTIST: Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival demonstration on the Joseph Conrad WORK: Blood Red Roses SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syAn2xv5HSU&t=48s ARTIST: The Longest Johns WORK: Mingulay Boat Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDt81x1B8nk ARTIST: Robin Hall & Jimmy McGregor with the Galliards WORK: Mingulay Boat Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LF3CpSf7NxQ ARTIST: Harbottle and Jonas (from Folk at the Corner House) WORK: Mingulay Boat Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecuxgrISx0A ARTIST: The Kilt Lifters WORK: Queen Mary’s Escape SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7XpB1I-FSk ARTIST: Mairi MacInnes WORK: Cuachag Nan Craobh SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=298ngsE8dTY ARTIST: Bear McCreary (feat. Griogair Labhruidh) WORK: The Skye Boat Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnsVFslhy6I ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Mingulay Boat Song (WIP) SOURCE: Soon to be released on LVL 3. Check here for updates: https://www.musicthegathering.com/

In this holiday episode of Folk Files, we explore the old, wild, wonderful world of wassailing. Wæs hæl! Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton. Musical excerpts: ARTIST: The Brown University Madrigal Singers WORK: Wassail Song, arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams SOURCE: 2010 Holiday Concert ARTIST: Magpie Lane WORK: The Somerset Wassail SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhWNp9vh39E ARTIST: The King’s Singers WORK: Here We Come A Wassailing SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YUGXr8FcdY ARTIST: Ian Giles WORK: God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nppGaVz_8cw ARTIST: Electra Women’s Choir WORK: Yorkshire Wassail SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCXM9G9uyt4 ARTIST: Unknown, recorded by Smithsonian Folkways WORK: John Canoe Music SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nIdRnL7vRU ARTIST: Lady Maisery, Jimmy Aldridge, and Sid Goldsmith WORK: Cornish Wassail SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fo1aGvEUtcI ARTIST: Phil Tanner WORK: The Wassail Song (Gower) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqCxKtHr778 ARTIST: Rhodri McDonagh WORK: Deck the Halls (Welsh version) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGuTncYncbU

Welcome to Folk Files, a podcast hosted by Olivia Harding that seeks to uncover the mysteries of folk music throughout the ages and dive deep into the tangled history of murder ballads, sea shanties, rebel songs, and other music that has withstood the test of time! In this inaugural episode, we will discuss the meaning of "folk music" and explore the origins of the song "Health to the Company". Special thanks to Misti Bernard, Jerry Barry, and Aaron J. Morton. ARTIST: Sherrill Milnes, Liberty Tree Wind Players, American Fife Ensemble, Jon Spong WORK: Liberty Song SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZI1MJuszYM ARTIST: Vin Garbutt WORK: We May Or Might Never All Meet Here Again SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1Hg5V5YWWg ARTIST: The Chieftains WORK: Here's a Health to the Company SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkuDYhdVers ARTIST: The Minstrels of Mayhem WORK: Health to the Company SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7PVJuo4yw4 ARTIST: Owain Phyfe WORK: A Health to the Company SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcS88F1jR4U ARTIST: Winnie Ryan WORK: I Am a Poor Girl and My Life it is Sad SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goAyQLQA1xg ARTIST: Silly Wizard WORK: If I was a Blackbird SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXi_uYP0tlM