The Enigmatic Melodies of Shirley Collins: Exploring 'America Over The Water'

Throughout the history of folk music, few artists have managed to captivate audiences with the depth and sincerity of their craft quite like Shirley Collins. With an ethereal voice that transports listeners through time and space, Collins has become synonymous with the revival of traditional English folk music. However, in 1959, she embarked on a journey that would take her across the Atlantic and pave the way for her groundbreaking album 'America Over The Water'.

The Essence of 'America Over The Water'

Released in 1961, 'America Over The Water' marked a pivotal moment in Shirley Collins' career. Much like her previous works, the album beautifully showcases her ability to interpret and breathe new life into centuries-old folk songs. However, what truly sets this album apart is its exploration of American folk traditions, specifically those of the Appalachian region.

Captivated by the rich musical heritage of Appalachia and inspired by her encounters with American folk musicians during her travels, Collins embarked on a mission to infiltrate the heart of traditional American roots music. This ambitious project took her to small Appalachian communities, where she immersed herself in the traditions and stories that have been passed down through generations. Under the guidance of iconic folklorist Alan Lomax, Collins recorded a plethora of enigmatic songs that would later shape 'America Over The Water'.

America Over the Water

by Shirley Collins(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2301 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	193 pages

FREE

The Long and Winding Journey Across America

Shirley Collins' journey across America was not merely a physical one, but a spiritual pilgrimage that allowed her to connect with the roots of the music she held so dear. From the hills of Kentucky to the mountains of Tennessee, she sought out the voices of forgotten musicians and shared moments with the locals, endeavoring to fully understand the significance of the songs she was collecting.

Collins documented her experiences and encounters in a series of field recordings, which provide invaluable insights into the lives of these often-overlooked artists. These recordings would later serve as the foundation upon which 'America Over The Water' was built, allowing Collins to bring their stories and songs to life once more.

An Interpretation Like No Other

'America Over The Water' showcases Collins' unparalleled ability to interpret and add her own unique touch to traditional songs. With her delicate yet assertive voice, she effortlessly blends authenticity with personal artistry. The album serves as a testament to her respect for the tradition she became a part of, as well as her fearlessness in pushing the boundaries of the genre.

Each song on the album is a sonic tapestry, woven with the threads of forgotten stories and melodies that have stood the test of time. From haunting ballads to joyous dance tunes, Collins effortlessly transports the listener to a bygone era, allowing them to experience the essence of American folk music in a profoundly personal way.

The Legacy of 'America Over The Water'

Though 'America Over The Water' may not have received the recognition it deserved upon its release, its impact on the world of folk music cannot be understated. The album served as a blueprint for future generations of musicians and scholars, inspiring them to delve into the rich tapestry of American roots music.

Furthermore, Collins' embrace of American traditions opened the door for collaborations and cross-cultural exchanges, showcasing the universal power of folk music to transcend borders and touch the hearts of people from all walks of life. Her tireless efforts to preserve and promote these traditions have ensured their longevity, allowing future generations to be mesmerized by the enigmatic melodies of America over the water.

: A Musical Odyssey

Shirley Collins' 'America Over The Water' stands as a testament to the transformative power of music and the remarkable connection it can foster between different cultures. Through her journey across America, Collins managed to capture the essence of a rich and diverse musical heritage, sharing it with audiences around the world and illuminating the beauty of traditional folk music.

The album remains a resounding testament to Collins' talent and dedication, a compelling reminder that the magic of music can transcend time, borders, and even the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.

America Over the Water

by Shirley Collins(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2301 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	193 pages

FREE

'Shirley is a time traveller, a conduit for essential human aches, one of the greatest artists who ever lived' Stewart Lee

'Without doubt one of England's greatest cultural treasures' Billy Bragg

In America Over the Water, celebrated English folksinger Shirley Collins offers an affecting account of her year-long stint as assistant to legendary musical historian and folklorist Alan Lomax. Together, they travelled to Virginia, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Georgia, discovering Mississippi Fred McDowell and many others, in their tireless work to uncover the traditional music of America's heartland.

Blending the personal story of Shirley Collins' relationship with Lomax and offering a unique first-hand account of a country on the brink of the civil rights era, America Over the Water cuts right to the heart of the blues in a fascinating account of Collins' and Lomax's ground-breaking journey across the southern states of the USA to record the music that started it all.

Originally published over fifteen years ago, this definitive edition includes a new by Shirley Collins.