English

Greensleeves

Who has never heard the tune of Greensleeves? Not many, I bet as it is synonymous with English folk music and because it has been round one hell of a long time (it first appeared in print in 1580). Knowing the words is quite a different matter. As a child and young man I then found the lyrics pretty insipid, I mean "Alas! my love you do me wrong ....." as starters coupled with a mournful over sentimental air is not much to get a young macho male worked up, especially when in competition with bawdy naval ballads and rugby songs. Now in my senility I have rediscovered its charms and quite enjoy singing it.
The version I sing can be found in Folk Songs of the British Isles and originates from Ballet's Lutebook (early 17th century.
"Greensleeves" has been recorded by:
 The King's Singers on "Annie Laurie - Folksongs of the British Isles" RealAudio
 Andrew Stewart on "Hushabye Trilogy" RealAudio
 Maurice Andre on "Children's Songs" 
 Linn Barnes and Allison Hampton on "Wassail" 
 Ian Campbell on "Contempary Campbells" 
 Flanders & Swann on "At the Drop of a Hat" 
 Flanders & Swann on "The Complete Flanders and Swann" 
 Flanders & Swann on "Flanders and Swann" 
 Flanders & Swann on "Transport of Delight" 
 Kenneth McKellar on "The Very Best of Kenneth McKellar" 
 Jessye Norman on "Jessye Norman: Amazing Grace" 
 The Oxford New College Choir on "Early One Morning" 
 Richard Dyer-Bennet on "The Art Of Richard Dyer-Bennet" 
 Orchester Mick Malte on "Instrumental Evergreens" 
 Various Artists on "From the Heart of America"