S4:1 EP43: Scarborough Fair: Origin, History, and the Power of Song

Welcome to Season 4! We're launching the season with a deep dive into the beautiful traditional ballad Scarborough Faire. Did you know there are many versions of the song that don't even mention a fair at all? Or that for most of its history it seems the song was sung in a major key (not the haunting minor key we're all familiar with!)? And what is the symbolism behind that famous 'herb refrain? Katie discusses all this and more. This is a story of influence and collaboration, of creation and musical ingenuity. Including some beautiful original old recordings in addition to more modern versions, this is a chance to appreciate the history of one of our most beloved songs.  ---   www.bornofwonder.com  Leave a review for the podcast on iTunes and leave a star rating on Spotify!    Support the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bornofwonder?fan_landing=true     *also edit to say on second look I have 7000 unread emails, not 3000! Disturbing! Snail mail is so much more fun. Become a patron and I'm happy to send you a letter!   ----   Simon and Garfunkel, Scarborough Fair https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Jj4s9I-53g    Martin Carthy, Scarborough Fair https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCjUDUshHdQ  The True Story of “Scarborough Fair” and "The Elfin Knight" - with 30 historical recordings Folk Revival Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adlHgFxdoFw    Recommendation:    Bert Jansch - Wild Mountain Time https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6kQ2uxkws8