How the West Was Won
Bing Crosby · 1960
83 min · 34 tracks · country · folk · jazz
A nostalgic journey through American folk traditions, blending Crosby's smooth crooning with vivid storytelling.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its exploration of traditional American folk music during a time when such genres were gaining renewed interest. It showcases Crosby's ability to bridge popular music with cultural heritage, influencing subsequent artists in the folk revival movement of the 1960s.
- Best for
- nostalgic storytelling with warmth varied pacing for reflective moments suitable for cozy gatherings
- Context
- By 1960, Bing Crosby was a celebrated figure in music and film, transitioning from his peak career years of the 1940s and 1950s. 'How the West Was Won' marked a thematic shift, showcasing his affinity for American folk songs and Western narratives, following his successful collaborations in Hollywood musicals.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ella Fitzgerald· Dave Brubeck· Chet Atkins· Miles Davis· Nina Simone· Sonny Rollins· Tony Bennett· Ray Charles
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Shenandoah / Bound for the Promised Land Standout 3:08
- 2 En Roulant Ma Boule Roulant 1:10
- 3 Lupita Divina 2:00
- 4 The Sioux Indians 1:35
- 5 Shenandoah 1:54
- 6 Crossing the Plains 2:22
- 7 Buffalo Boy 1:38
- 8 Sweet Betsy From Pike 1:52
- 9 Ox Driving Song 1:44
- 10 Will You Go Out West With Me? 1:34
- 11 Buffalo Gals Standout 3:38
- 12 All 'Pewtrified'/Will You Come to the Bower 3:41
- 13 Green Grow the Lilacs 4:23
- 14 What Was Your Name in the States? 3:02
- 15 When I Went Off to Prospect Standout 4:15
- 16 Old Settler's Song 4:21
- 17 Drill Ye Tarriers Drill 1:25
- 18 A Railroader's Bride I'll Be 1:44
- 19 900 Miles 2:03
- 20 Billy the Kid 1:43
- 21 Hang Me, Oh Hang Me 2:57
- 22 Jesse James 1:54
- 23 Skip to My Lou 2:56
- 24 Careless Love 1:44
- 25 Hell in Texas 2:26
- 26 Jennie Jenkins 1:53
- 27 The Streets of Laredo 2:53
- 28 Down by the Brazos 2:04
- 29 Git Along Little Dogies 2:16
- 30 Buckskin Joe 2:06
- 31 Red River Valley 2:06
- 32 The Handcart Song 2:05
- 33 The Spirit of God Is Like a Fire Burning 2:29
- 34 Come, Come Ye Saints 4:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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