I often am looking for songs to wrap my voice and fingers around, and I have liked the Simon and Garfunkel version of Scarborough Fair for as long as I can remember. Earlier this year, I was listening to different versions of the song, and came across the story of the acclaimed British singer, Martin Carthy teaching his version of the song to Simon, after he had shown it to Bob Dylan.
While I am a huge fan of the canticle version of Simon and Garfunkel, and thought that was the version I might learn-- I started listening to the version of the song that Dylan crafted into ‘Girl From the North Country.’
Over time I became more and more intrigued with the lyric images and the guitar part from his recording on ‘The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan.’ It wouldn’t leave my mind, and as I began to learn the song myself, I began to feel the expanse, love and ache in the song. Eventually, I became more serious about trying to craft my own arrangement of the song.
I wasn’t sure if I’d finish it, or what I’d use it for, but as I listened to a rough mix over several months, I realized that it might stand alone as a single. As the cooler wind and weather finally moved into North Carolina for the fall, I began to hear the song connected to cold weather, northern climes and feelings of real care, love and tenderness for someone we used to know well. I am still struck by the sheer beauty in these simple lyrics and melody. I hope it might move you this Christmas as you listen.
lyrics
Lyrics and Music by Bob Dylan
credits
released November 25, 2021
Created, mixed and mastered by Wade Baynham at The Second Story
Durham, NC
2021
Cover Design by Denise Baynham
Denise has been an amazing encouragement to me as I've worked on this song, as always. This song reminds me, in many ways, of my love for her, and I am very grateful to be able to tell her myself.
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