We Came to Sing!

" Many of Holly's fans would agree that her collaborative works are among her finest, and this 2009 release is no exception - it's stunningly beautiful. These artists - Holly, Pat Humphries and Sandy O - deliver some truly gorgeous arrangements on their 3-part harmonies, at times sounding like a full choir." ~Ladyslipper Music

2 - Sail Away Lady

Trad. Arranged by Holly Near / © Hereford Music (ASCAP)

Holly writes: I first heard this song sung by Odetta. Reading a bit about the song's history, I learned that the tune is identified with the south central Kentucky and middle Tennessee locals and may date back to American dance music in the period between the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Paul Wells (Middle Tennessee State University) states that the song was collected around the turn of the 20th century and seems to have been common to both black and white traditions.

Ain't no use to sit and cry
You’ll be an angel by and by

Don’t you rock em
Don’t you rock em
Don’t you rock em mmm
Don’t you rock em daddy –o

Soon as I get my new house done
Sail Away Lady Sail Away
Give my old one to my son
Sail Away Lady Sail Away

Additional verses:

I got a home in New Orleans
All I got left is my ole jeans

I got a home in Baltimore
Train come a runnin’ right past my door

Singers sing and the players play
Let’s sing Odetta on her way

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