Podcast Episode 2: The Unfortunate Rake Cycle

January 28, 2011

In this episode, you'll hear five songs all related to the 18th century English folk song "The Unfortunate Rake". "The Unfortunate Rake" is about a sailor who spends his money on prostitutes and then dies of a venereal disease. Doesn't ring a bell? You'll be surprised to find out how many well-known songs use the same theme, lyrics or melody. The songs in this episode are "Pills of White Mercury" by Ennis Clare, "Streets of Laredo" by Grannie Jans, "Saint James Infirmary Blues" by Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway, "Spanish Ladies" by Musical Blades, and "Green Fields of France" by Whigmaleerie Ceilidh Band. So, check it out and explore a bit of musical history!

Play MP3 (or right click to download)

Songs

• Pills of White Mercury by Ennis Clare (lyrics)
• Streets of Laredo by Grannie Jans (Wikipedia w/ lyrics)
• Saint James Infirmary Blues by Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway (Extended lyrics/Wikipedia article)
• Spanish Ladies by Musical Blades (Wikipedia w/ lyrics)
• Green Fields of France by Whigmaleerie Ceilidh Band (lyrics in PDF/Wikipedia article)

Additional Links

• The Young Girl Cut Down In Her Prime (video)
• Green Fields of France by Klonakilty (video)
• Folkways album of songs related to The Unfortunate Rake, the liner notes provide a ton of good information.