Down to the Sea in Ships cover

Released 70 years ago

Down to the Sea in Ships

Burl Ives · 1956

45 min · 18 tracks · folk

A vibrant collection of traditional sea shanties and folk songs that evoke the spirit of maritime adventure.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pace for sing-alongs
  • nautical themes for adventure seekers
  • vibrant energy for group gatherings
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • engaging storytelling through shanties

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer lengthy, immersive albums
  • not for fans of modern

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1956, Burl Ives was already an established figure in American folk music, known for his rich baritone and storytelling prowess. 'Down to the Sea in Ships' marked a significant point in his career as it showcased a thematic focus on maritime culture, following his breakthrough hit 'The Wayfaring Stranger' from 1944. This album solidified his position as a prominent interpreter of American folk traditions during the folk revival era.
Stylistic neighbors
Pete Seeger· Woody Guthrie· The Weavers

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Jack Was Every Inch a Sailor 2:43
  • 2 Santy Anna 2:38
  • 3 The Eddystone Light 1:19
  • 4 Haul Away, Joe 3:32
  • 5 You New York Girls 2:15
  • 6 The Sailor's Grave 2:54
  • 7 Leave Her, Johnny, Leave Her 1:23
  • 8 Away Rio 2:38
  • 9 Ben Backstay 3:06
  • 10 Wrap Me Up in My Tarpaulin Jacket 2:35
  • 11 Blow Ye Winds 2:34
  • 12 Go Down You Red Red Roses 2:43
  • 13 Hullabaloo Belay 1:15
  • 14 Stormalong 2:49
  • 15 The Drunken Sailor 2:20
  • 16 Highland Laddie 3:22
  • 17 The Golden Vanity 3:11
  • 18 Rolling Home 2:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata