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"