Today, we listen to “Go Tell Aunt Rhody.” It’s a really old song — dating back to the 18th century. And as such, there are a lot of different versions of the lyrics. But the main lyrics are highly anthropomorphic. The gander is weeping. The goslings are mourning. And then there is this whole business of the goose dying in the mill pond standing on her head. I assume this means something, but I don’t know what it is.
The nice part of the song is how it is ultimately about a good economic relationship. Aunt Rhody is caring for the old gray goose and basically charging her in the form of her feathers. At least I think that’s how it works. I’m no farmer. But it’s more pleasant than the idea of fattening a pig to kill it. This, of course, is why smart pigs become sheep herders or befriend clever spiders.
I present the song performed by Jesse Ferguson. He’s one of these guys you’ve probably never heard of who is nonetheless an incredible talent. I will have to check out this music in more depth. He might be worth a week. Anyway, he has a gorgeous voice. Check him out:
I know Jesse Ferguson. Listening to some songs by the late great Stan Rogers on Youtube and he turned up with some covers. He has lots of songs online. You could spend a few days just browsing it all.
Might I suggest a few… these are all songs that I was already familiar with and he does an excellent job on them all.
Lies (Stan Rogers)
The Witch of the Westmorland (Archie Fisher)
The Band Played Waltzing Matilda (Eric Bogle)
Streets of London (Ralph McTell)
Parcel o’ Rogues (Robbie Burns)
Queen of Argyll (Silly Wizard)
Barrett’s Privateers (Stan Rogers)
The Dangling Conversation (Simon & Garfunkel)
Black Velvet Band (traditional)
Put It There (Paul McCartney)
Alabama (Neil Young)
and he does Man of Constant Sorrow too!
and if you’re not familiar with Stan Rogers, check out Mary Ellen Carter.
I can’t help but think that if he covered some George Ezra but you probably couldn’t tell him from George.
Thanks for that! I may do him in two weeks. I have something for next week. But I can remember it right now. He does seem like an interesting guy.
Terrific! I like his later stuff. It seems to me like he was trying too hard to vary the vocal timing on his earlier stuff. Later he sings more conventionally, and it lets his voice come through stronger.