Folk Files

Olivia Harding

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!

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20 episodes
Updated July 17

Episodes20

Newest first

July 17 · 39 min
Episode #3.7 - I Got the Blues
According to many textbooks, the blues is a genre that was born in the rural Mississippi Delta, with roots in the “sorrow songs” of enslaved people. It’s easy, however, to poke holes in this origin story and instead start to see the blues as a joyful, rebellious musical expression that formed in an urban environment. In this episode of Folk Files, we’ll take a look at different theories about the origin of the blues, separate fact from fiction, and uncover the reason why the Mississippi Delta narrative was promoted so strongly. (Note: episode has occasional explicit language and sexual references). For a list of all musical excerpts used in this episode, click here: https://folkfilespodcast.com/episodes/season-3/episode-3-7/ Host: Olivia Harding Chris Thomas King’s The Blues: The Authentic Narrative of My Music and Culture: https://www.chicagoreviewpress.com/the-blues-products-9780897336482.php Visit the Delta Blues Museum: https://www.deltabluesmuseum.org/ Support Folk Files by joining the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Assistant Producer: Aaron J. Morton Folk Files is a member of the Bluegrass Situation. Learn more about BGS here: https://thebluegrasssituation.com/ Interested in sponsoring Folk Files? Contact BGS: https://bit.ly/sponsorBGSpods
June 19 · 29 min
Episode #3.6 - There Was Two Brothers
Whereas the “Two Sisters” murder ballad is a complete, coherent story, “Two Brothers” is messy. What’s the motive? Who are these brothers? Who kills who? In this episode of Folk Files, we search for the answers to these questions… and discover a dark hypothesis for why the story is so vague. (Content warning: this episode discusses themes that may not be appropriate for children). Folk Files is now a member of the Bluegrass Situation. Learn more about BGS here: https://thebluegrasssituation.com/ For a list of all musical excerpts used in this episode, click here: https://folkfilespodcast.com/season-3/episode-3-6/ Host: Olivia Harding Explore the Derek Piotr Fieldwork Archive: https://fieldwork-archive.com/ Support Folk Files by joining the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Assistant Producer: Aaron J. Morton Interested in sponsoring Folk Files? Contact BGS: https://bit.ly/sponsorBGSpods
May 17 · 22 min
Episode #3.5 - Rise Again
Stan Rogers was one of Canada's greatest singer-songwriters, despite his music having never had major distribution or significant radio playtime. In this episode, I discuss the (tragically short) life of the impressive baritone and dissect his songs in order to answer this question: What makes his songs such instant folk classics? Host and Producer: Olivia Harding Assistant Producer: Aaron J. Morton Learn more about TransTrad: https://www.transtradfest.org/ Watch the One Warm Line: The Legacy of Stan Rogers: https://youtu.be/-h9A2RAfv9M?si=EJMzxJbvwi_upiEj Support Folk Files by joining the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast For a full list of musical excerpts, head to the Folk Files website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/season-3/episode-3-5/
April 24 · 27 min
Episode #3.4 - There Were Two Sisters
A harrowing murder ballad in which an older sister shoves her younger sister in the water (and sometimes a musician makes an instrument from the drowned girl's corpse) can be found all over Great Britain, North America, and Scandinavia. But where did it originally come from? And how has the story changed as it's traveled across seas? Find out in this episode of Folk Files, all about "Twa Sisters." CORRECTION: The artist named as "Kate Corwen" should actually be "Kate Fletcher" (Kate Fletcher performs in a duo with Corwen Broch) Host: Olivia Harding Learn more about the Spokane Fall Folk Festival: https://www.spokanefolkfestival.org/ For more on this ballad, check out the In the Roud podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pj8x5X1kCc0 Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton For a full list of musical excerpts associated with this episode, head to the episode page on the new Folk Files website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/uncategorized/episode-3-4/
March 16 · 40 min
Episode #3.3 - The Music of Temple Bar
In this St. Patrick's Day episode, I ask the question: Is it actually Irish? We will explore over thirty songs that are performed in Irish contexts and see if they actually come from Irish sources. Along the way, we'll discuss the Rising of 1798, the history of Dublin, the Great Famine, and the Irish diaspora. Host: Olivia Harding Learn more about the Albuquerque Folk Festival: https://www.abqfolkfest.org/ Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton For a full list of musical excerpts associated with this episode, head to the episode page on the new Folk Files website:
February 19 · 27 min
Episode #3.2 - He Never Returned
Is "The MTA Song" a conservative song or a communist song (or neither)? And why did record companies try to hide the origins of the tune of one of the most prolific early 20th century country songs? Find out in this episode of Folk Files, which discusses "The MTA," "The Wreck of the Old '97," and "The Ship That Never Returned." Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Check out the new website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/ Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton Reach out to Folk Files at folkfilespodcast@gmail.com For a full list of musical excerpts associated with this episode, head to the episode page on the Folk Files website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/season-3/episode-3-2/
January 20 · 26 min
Episode #3.1 - Piping in the Haggis
Welcome to the third season of Folk Files! We are starting off the year with a Robert Burns-themed episode to celebrate Burns Night on January 25th. Learn about the traditions associated with the Burns Night Supper and discover how Robert Burns was indispensable when it came to preserving Scottish folk music. Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Check out the new website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/ Listen to The Rhythm Atlas: https://rhythmatlas.com/listen/ Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton Reach out to Folk Files at folkfilespodcast@gmail.com For a full list of musical excerpts associated with this episode, head to the episode page on the Folk Files website: https://folkfilespodcast.com/season-3/episode-3-1/
Dec 18, 2025 · 25 min
Episode #2.12 - Lully, Lulla
Happy Holidays! Coventry Carol is a lullaby to a "little tiny child"...but surprisingly, that child is not Jesus. Learn more about this Christmas carol that was almost lost to time, including the history of modern Western Theatre and the origins of the picardy third, in this final episode of the second season of Folk Files. Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Special thanks to Aaron J. Morton Musical excerpts: ARTIST: The Sixteen WORK: The Coventry Carol SOURCE: https://youtu.be/_jIYyPOoEc8?si=mgPi4WH4G9LUnMT7 ARTIST: Sting (from A Winter's Night Live from Durham Cathedral) WORK: Coventry Carol SOURCE: https://youtu.be/hahwYqQd_gA?si=wJR4Qz-ZmUW9IaD2 ARTIST: Nora Fischer and Marnix Dorrestein WORK: Oblivion Soave from Monteverdi's L'Incoronazione di Poppea SOURCE: https://youtu.be/JTHQqJDV4os?si=820upsG60MJJyC5M ARTIST: Jeanette Blakeley WORK: "Lullaby" from Menotti's The Consul SOURCE: https://youtu.be/nImWN8o1f-E?si=Coj_UsTcod6m1Bbr ARTIST: Barry and Beth Hall WORK: Coventry Carol SOURCE: https://youtu.be/JCFg4S3kSV4?si=CleozvHduvVsAAxB ARTIST: Chicago WORK: Wishing You Were Here SOURCE: https://youtu.be/Zv0OwvsP0ek?si=cVc25wbawFlT7pkw ARTIST: The Zombies WORK: Time of the Season SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8ecsAI3FhY ARTIST: Alison Moyet WORK: The Coventry Carol SOURCE: https://youtu.be/kcrYqDqCN_Y?si=DoKE80e3peRMtvSo ARTIST: The Choir of Magdalen College Oxford WORK: Song of the Nuns of Chester SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0UtKzXb9Js ARTIST: The Cambridge Singers WORK: Coventry Carol (composed by Kenneth Leighton) SOURCE: https://youtu.be/uAA0lZ1YG90?si=VQYE2a0KSeFhZGks ARTIST: Sufjan Stevens WORK: Coventry Carol SOURCE: https://youtu.be/o6492UYw_hs?si=U0k6ZlmkfoIcULct
Dec 5, 2025 · 46 min
Bonus Episode: The Ballad World of Anna Gordon
In this bonus episode of Folk Files, I interview Ruth Perry, the author of The Ballad World of Anna Gordon, Mrs. Brown of Falkland. Anna Gordon is one of the most famous source singers in the history of folk music from the British Isles, and Ruth Perry's book dives into her life as a woman and ballad singer in 18th century Scotland. The book is available at https://global.oup.com/academic/ It's pricy, and understandably so, since it contains a wealth of new information and scholarship, but you can use the discount code AAFLYG6 to save 30%. You can listen to the accompanying ballads for free at https://global.oup.com/booksites/content/9780198939092/ In this episode, I use clips from the following songs: Lady Elspat, King Henry, Lamkin, and Thomas Rymer & Queen of Elfland You can purchase a CD with all twelve of the ballads at birnamcdshop.com or on Amazon (See more information here: https://www.birnamcd.com/birnam-pr/anna-gordon/ ) This interview has been edited for time. Special Thanks to Ruth Perry and Aaron J. Morton
Nov 21, 2025 · 26 min
Episode #2.11 - The Flower of England
For a long time, "The Death of Queen Jane" has been considered a folk song that takes artistic liberties with the historic event of the birth of Edward VI to Jane Seymour in 1537. But is it possible that the song hints at a more complicated story, filled with propaganda and intrigue? Explore the intersection of Tudor history and folk ballads in this episode of Folk Files. Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Oscar Isaac WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfeKFKG3JWM ARTIST: Cyril Tawney WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESUdOHChNKw ARTIST: Joan Baez WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6ZNp9le6x8 ARTIST: Bedlam Early Music WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYGWmV2XAnU ARTIST: Peggy Seeger WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://youtu.be/7z0KILKEZhk?si=qmkqUwFtPVlKyaGH ARTIST: Duncan Williamson WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://search.library.wisc.edu/digital/AB34LE2XNHS5FC8O ARTIST: John Jacob Niles WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnUaWKysPQM ARTIST: Isla Cameron WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://youtu.be/mMmHkgq1_T0?si=MAzM8qm8_0wHxoAc ARTIST: Karine Polwart WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JT2uqT3am1M ARTIST: Bothy Band WORK: The Death of Queen Jane SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYHkpjkZvJA
Oct 30, 2025 · 23 min
Folk Files #2.10 - Beware the Moss
Long Lankin is the bogeyman of the Child Ballads. A mysterious figure who lives in the moss (or the gorse, or the hay), he is known as a bloodthirsty murderer. But what's the full story? Explore the origins of the horror-filled ballad in this Halloween episode of Folk Files. Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: The Wainwright Sisters WORK: Long Lankin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8vzCkJJlSQ ARTIST: Steeleye Span WORK: Long Lankin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74Rw1SVfa_U ARTIST: Martin Carthy WORK: Long Lankin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlYuv1ZUsZ0 ARTIST: George Fradley WORK: Lankin SOURCE: https://youtu.be/yrEuzBE0uTs?si=aIpFgzidrF7YGpnN ARTIST: Geordie McIntyre WORK: Lamkin SOURCE: https://youtu.be/LQF9M1Omrfs?si=d0yAQwvibFAIDLeQ ARTIST: Alasdair Roberts & Friends WORK: Long Lankin SOURCE: https://youtu.be/es-bKUVLtUE?si=yxV9vFgzZoMpPPVC ARTIST: Lisa Knapp WORK: Long Lankin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zahxuV3H9Sk ARTIST: Frank Proffitt WORK: Bo Lamkin SOURCE: https://youtu.be/G6MLv__s_cU?si=9kG2WJSa1F0fZ1dg
Oct 20, 2025 · 32 min
Folk Files #2.9 - I Said the Sparrow
Who Killed Cock Robin? It was I, said the Sparrow. But where did the song come from? And what does it mean? Explore a world of birds, nursery rhymes, mythology, and history in this month's episode. Host: Olivia Harding Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Yuri Gohen: @yurigohenfolksong Who Killed Cock Robin by Yuri Gohen: https://yurigohen.bandcamp.com/album/who-killed-cock-robin https://open.spotify.com/album/5I5HTXbYVPOxc7MtKFU9jX?si=LXPUC86NQ1iamUUntn4GtA Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Peggy Seeger WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.y outube.com/watch?v=hVTcXtK_8Qo ARTIST: Tim Hart and Friends WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjGyLkGJBlI ARTIST: King's Singers WORK: Of All the Birds SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnr6Oxybkq4 ARTIST: Dana and Susan Robinson WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://youtu.be/HqP26mqO4GY?si=xS2SAHX8BItCQ00U ARTIST: Jean Ritchie WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otcP8CCCt3c ARTIST: Glenn Yarbrough WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACX6OS6oO5k ARTIST: Richard Dyer-Bennet WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://youtu.be/lhTXFbYn3WY ARTIST: John Jacob Niles WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-_lfkMQGPs ARTIST: Robin Roberts WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qB9eTpc-G1U ARTIST: Silly Symphony WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GK66CFljA0 ARTIST: St. Michael's Junior School for Girls in Cumberland WORK: Cock Robin is Dead and Lays in his Grave SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YteMR9prrQ ARTIST: Yuri Gohen WORK: Who Killed Cock Robin? SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40-TqWBPoDs
Aug 28, 2025 · 31 min
Folk Files #2.8 - Stand and Deliver
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 Harding Support 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 Span WORK: Cadgwith Anthem SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMBpPYA8ebY ARTIST: Ewan MacColl WORK: Alan Tyne O'Harrow SOURCE: https://ewanmaccoll.bandcamp.com/track/alan-tyne-o-harrow ARTIST: Martin Carthy WORK: Newlyn Town SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM7hDJI85uI ARTIST: Roger McGuinn WORK: Whiskey in the Jar SOURCE: https://youtu.be/i8iAp0mTKjo?si=htJCj3YzGDz4UWso ARTIST: Loreena McKennitt WORK: The Highwayman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YGFo0xn4JeY ARTIST: Ewan MacColl WORK: The Crafty Farmer SOURCE: https://youtu.be/GT_uXRERmsE?si=bNwLhDjFCXB9yuij ARTIST: Magpie Lane WORK: The Highwayman Outwitted SOURCE: https://youtu.be/kXHL6omuz3c?si=pnX3AOzB6sbfoNZu ARTIST: Jackie Oates WORK: Robbers' Retreat SOURCE: https://youtu.be/ZzPA52DWzwM?si=ZkM3a4WDugEpC4yp ARTIST: The Mousehole Male Voice Choir WORK: The Cadgwith Anthem SOURCE: https://youtu.be/yXFIUuWARB0?si=mgpBLQqoKOYtge7N ARTIST: The Longest Johns WORK: Cadgwith Anthem SOURCE: https://youtu.be/UiBlnnN2PWU?si=78Mzy7npMptFomP1 ARTIST: Bounding Main WORK: Cadgwith Anthem SOURCE: https://youtu.be/KQbYYnoM3wM?si=UF20bLf7VaKn-lGD
Jul 31, 2025 · 30 min
Episode #2.7 - I Died For Love
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 Harding Check out more from Pollyanna: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Rgyvnw9WrAm20MhlS2kyp?si=irIKZtNOTFaZWDOt9mh0cA Special thanks to: Aaron J. Morton Support 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 Marie WORK: O'Carolan's Cup SOURCE: https://youtu.be/zrBwqFco0Xs?si=-SdsYnEWGiD5SnFO ARTIST: Sarah Makem WORK: The Butcher Boy SOURCE: https://youtu.be/x_mtUaBHWCE?si=tBXVy9ELCV9dECgh ARTIST: Derek and Hazel Sarjeant WORK: A Sailor Coming Home on Leave SOURCE: https://youtu.be/e91Ug-CAjAc?si=sMcd-NpQC-FQmNSL ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Johnny Jump Up SOURCE: https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album-esexe ARTIST: Frank Profitt WORK: Morning Fair SOURCE: https://youtu.be/wdyO1890Zpc?si=1esdsYhrRNWTg7zD ARTIST: Sam Lee WORK: Over Yonders Hill SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2jcdbFRRYc ARTIST: The Kings of Calicutt WORK: Sheffield Park SOURCE: https://youtu.be/o1lDKhJd6Pw?si=XWyn9hQQ3ImN2PRq ARTIST: Bellowhead WORK: Cold Blows the Wind SOURCE: https://youtu.be/WvuxL8UQiLQ?si=Sdr7Zz7yUVEXi7zg ARTIST: Jean Ritchie WORK: Go Dig My Grave SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGrcOqcbzYk ARTIST: The Clancy Brothers WORK: The Butcher Boy SOURCE: https://youtu.be/WMc8QSxZe_M?si=PIv8GZyRL_1vkSRD ARTIST: Buell Kazee WORK: Butcher's Boy SOURCE: https://youtu.be/lwSJoMNRGuI?si=fehdH-zflcTkTbY2 ARTIST: Pollyanna WORK: Railroad Boy SOURCE: https://pollyanna.bandcamp.com/album/man-time-deluxe-edition
Jun 23, 2025 · 25 min
Episode #2.6 - No Strings Attached
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 Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J. Morton Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Duo Synkro WORK: Live at Paris Bal Folk SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1XgiYjo1HE ARTIST: Wu Wei WORK: Sheng performance with Helsinki Philharmonic SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xios4KtjG2A ARTIST: Mark Kloeg WORK: Cantiga 100 SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtWazpkuz7o ARTIST: Paul Young WORK: Michael's Jig SOURCE: https://youtu.be/f8TX7jO-_es?si=AWS2GmtPtNJhMRMc ARTIST: Sofia Ros WORK: La Campanella SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ARC2YxsbE0 ARTIST: Nick Ariondo WORK: Flight of the Bumblebee SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxTOwXEy2Mo ARTIST: Yuxin Ding WORK: The Entertainer SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8kmUkDwgIs ARTIST: Sonny Boy Williamson WORK: Bye Bye Bird SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-PhBryFuIM ARTIST: Carlos Vives WORK: Hijo de Vallenato SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORzwHmeJAmU ARTIST: Piper Jones Band WORK: Live at the Loch Norman Scottish Festival 2023 SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teJu3_eJGnM ARTIST: Chris McMullan WORK: The Limerick Lament SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=Dm3EpfuxuG0 ARTIST: Christy Barry WORK: Traditional Irish Tin Whistle Music (Doolin Style) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpN36I9xr-o ARTIST: Spokes Mashiyane WORK: A song off the 1959 album "King Kwela" SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adyM1Gx1lHU ARTIST: John Joe Kelly WORK: Bodhrán solo from "Island Songs" SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mi1G-A-wdu0 ARTIST: Abby "The Spoon Lady" and Lyle Rickards WORK: I'll Fly Away SOURCE: https://youtu.be/Ibye4LNpWD8?si=Y5wPiddyQXs5Pmj1 ARTIST: Dom Flemons WORK: How To Play the Bones with Dom Flemons SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMokBr9cTxM
May 30, 2025 · 27 min
Episode #2.5 - Strings Attached
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 Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J. Morton Check out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/ Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=true Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Ekona Diatta WORK: Gambia SOURCE: https://youtu.be/FHCpjVrGDNk?si=90XYIILixvtyxtMR ARTIST: The Harper and the Minstrel WORK: Cantiga 353 SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVrfqvHVbdU ARTIST: Valentina Nicolai WORK: Il Ballerino SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wfx7WcyG5sI ARTIST: Ragnhild Hemsing WORK: Valdresguten SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYSVDG8ZFNw ARTIST: Chris Thile WORK: Jessamyn's Reel SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88q9syere0Q ARTIST: RAVN WORK: In Nature #2 SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cCM04Qvx2w ARTIST: Edward Foster WORK: Ja Nus Hons Pris SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mfDscXoY8A ARTIST: Bernardo de Pace WORK: The Wizard of the Mandolin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHfQTzDnz9s ARTIST: Rolf Lislevand WORK: Unknown SOURCE: https://youtu.be/jUd_Tl3N3wE?si=X60gcIMUodA_J3wZ ARTIST: Mariachi Juvenil Perla WORK: El Cascabel SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SVCsqs3Vsc ARTIST: Justin Johnson WORK: Justin Johnson Plays the Diddley Bow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8Ic3j7f5GU ARTIST: Miles Caton (Sinners 2025 Soundtrack) WORK: Travelin' SOURCE: https://youtu.be/1hC9X81x7nY?si=xW18W3o91LS2RTEa ARTIST: Sol Hoopii WORK: Palolo SOURCE: https://youtu.be/kPzqjmgi2-I?si=PC7eTQXuaPmCuRce ARTIST: The Lady Victoria WORK: King of the Fairies SOURCE: https://youtu.be/QuYm9wvTvkc?si=v2wN0FT2YmDgk_Rv ARTIST: Frontier Culture Museum WORK: O du lieber Augustine SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTAtHhG7H6A ARTIST: Joni Mitchell WORK: California (Live) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5BnE5_lPqE ARTIST: Scott Marshall WORK: Unknown SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvBSXocQog0 ARTIST: Unknown WORK: Organistrum SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5J1cQs7CM
Apr 23, 2025 · 38 min
Folk Files #2.4 - I Am A Roving Gambler
This episode explores the variations, history, and geography of the bluegrass song "The Roving Gambler." Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Ashford King, The Cecil Sharp House/Ralph Vaughan Williams Library, and Aaron J. Morton Check out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/ Listen to Ashford King: https://open.spotify.com/album/1IZwE0c1mzOQtd3nnWn8nE?si=A5AenKxXRvmAiM_duUVHPg Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=true Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Doc Watson WORK: The Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhTcFh_jAnM ARTIST: Larry Sparks WORK: Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVrfqvHVbdU ARTIST: Albert Sallee WORK: Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/1771 ARTIST: Donna Everett WORK: Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/1221 ARTIST: Rambling Jack Elliott WORK: Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B5BHG5G1P8 ARTIST: The Corries WORK: Roving Journeyman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5LzHSci1Lg ARTIST: Harry Brazil WORK: Rambling Irishman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDaC883iJjo ARTIST: Tom Willett WORK: The Roving Journeyman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_DoReXQMRM ARTIST: Delia Murphy WORK: Roving Journeyman SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bztY9bHbbVA ARTIST: Samantha Bumgarner WORK: The Gamblin' Man SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWfszrzc51Q&t=121s ARTIST: Leroy Gardner WORK: Gambling Man SOURCE: https://digitalcollections.uark.edu/digital/collection/OzarkFolkSong/id/2942 ARTIST: The Wolfe Tones WORK: Paddy Lay Back SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QqpcENtS-s ARTIST: Joan Baez WORK: The Trees They Do Grow High SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wh7Lcw0ZIWc ARTIST: The Staple Singers WORK: Move Along Train SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fdbij67yUs ARTIST: Alison Krauss WORK: Down to the River To Pray SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SZv7JJqcNY ARTIST: Clancy Brothers and Robbie O'Connell WORK: Moonshiner SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Du8Naz_iAg4 ARTIST: Johnny Whistletrigger WORK: Guerrilla Man SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VB1OweaWbxc ARTIST: Ashford King WORK: Roving Gambler SOURCE: https://open.spotify.com/track/5rkkQsz2EC9VaFTnAJWAHJ?si=213e5631c1a04ca0
Mar 31, 2025 · 36 min
Folk Files #2.3 - No Land is Alone
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 Harding Special thanks to: Cliff S., Ramona Holmes, and Aaron J. Morton Check out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/ Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019 WORK: Mu isamaa on minu arm SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTdOiCa0-4o ARTIST: Tuule Kann WORK: Estonian Folk Music Instrument: KANNEL SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lqpRd9kU_o ARTIST: Timo Lige / Students from Hiiumaa WORK: Kiigelaul (A Swinging Song) SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x5QslTDXW4 ARTIST: Written by L. Raudkepp, Composed by J. Aavik WORK: Hoia, jumal Eestit SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6O9D0ZN1kkI ARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019 WORK: Koi SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_cCvMuDLTg ARTIST: Eteläsuomalaisen Osakunnan Laulajat WORK: Kangakudumise laul SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izYbVvt-DPo ARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2014 WORK: Mis need ohjad meida hoidvad SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHuaIz6ZK6s ARTIST: Tartu Boys Choir WORK: Mu isamaa on minu arm SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oX4yvG5ApU ARTIST: Tartu Boys Choir WORK: Veel kaitse Kalev oma lapsi SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbdpHz4s7-4 ARTIST: Ell Tabur WORK: Lenda, lenda, lepalind SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oSswM_7sBY ARTIST: Tallinna Kammerkoor WORK: Priiuse hommikul SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru-picL-Ozo ARTIST: Tallinna Meestelaulu Selts WORK: Üks kindel linn ja varjupaik SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B37doTWWFwk ARTIST: Singers at Laulupidu 2019 WORK: Tuljak SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2k2lsqm8JLk ARTIST: Singers at Öölaulupidu 2008 WORK: Ei ole üksi ükski maa SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3BSN0P8-no
Mar 19, 2025 · 1 hr 8 min
Episode Swap - Basic Folk: Carolyn Kendrick's Devilish Detour
Surprise! This is not an episode of Folk Files: It's an episode of Basic Folk! Basic Folk, produced by the Bluegrass Situation, is a podcast that features honest conversations with folk musicians. Hosted by Cindy Howes and Lizzie No, Basic Folk approaches interviews with warmth, humor and insightful questions. Since 2018, this podcast has dignified under the radar roots musicians by providing a platform that they might not otherwise have. This episode features Carolyn Kendrick, whose latest project explores the complex themes of moral panic, tradition, and the figure of the devil aka Satan aka Lucifer. The LA-based songwriter opens up about the inspiration behind her album "Each Machine." She shares her unexpected journey into researching the devil, sparked by a podcast project that ended up overtaking her life, leading her to interview the leader of the Satanic Temple, among many others. This deep dive into the topic became a way for her to process the overwhelming political and cultural landscape. Check out the links below to hear more from Basic Folk! https://basicfolk.com/ https://www.facebook.com/basicfolkpod/ https://www.instagram.com/basicfolkpod/ Carolyn Kendrick Links: Each Machine on Bandcamp: https://carolynkendrick.bandcamp.com/album/each-machine Website: ⁠https://www.carolynkendrick.com⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynbkendrick/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynkendrickmusic Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carolynbkendrick
Feb 13, 2025 · 21 min
Folk Files #2.2 - Bedlam Boys Are Bonny
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 Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J. Morton Check out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/ Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Heritage WORK: Mad Tom of Bedlam SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gAxNVcyKm4 ARTIST: The Halliard WORK: Boys of Bedlam SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0EUadGMU3Y ARTIST: Catherine Bott WORK: Mad Maudlin SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSNoYGtdDiU ARTIST: Tim Edwards of the Country Dance & Song Society WORK: Tom O'Bedlam's Song SOURCE: 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 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: Kate Price WORK: Mad Tom of Bedlam SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubPeBpchVxM ARTIST: Old Blind Dogs WORK: Bedlam Boys/Rights of Man SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMkmbfW_XKE ARTIST: Steeleye Span WORK: Boys of Bedlam SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uz9tggUNlIU ARTIST: Music the Gathering WORK: Tom of Bedlam SOURCE: LVL 3 - https://www.musicthegathering.com/store/lvl-3-digital-album