What makes King of Skiffle by Lonnie Donegan notable?

'King of Skiffle' reintroduced Donegan's legacy to a new generation, earning acclaim for its nostalgic appeal and charting well in the UK. The album's success reaffirmed Donegan's status as a pivotal figure in popularizing skiffle, which laid groundwork for future rock and pop artists. When 'King of Skiffle' was released in 1998, Lonnie Donegan was in a reflective phase of his career, having previously been renowned as a leading figure in the skiffle movement during the late 1950s. This album serves as a retrospective celebration of his earlier work, highlighting classic tracks that defined his influence on British pop and folk music.

Who is King of Skiffle for?

King of Skiffle works well if you're into playful storytelling with lively rhythms, great for sing-along moments and short bursts of energetic fun.

How many songs are on King of Skiffle?

King of Skiffle has 19 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

King of Skiffle

Lonnie Donegan · 1998

54 min · 19 tracks · pop music

A vibrant collection of folk-infused rhythms and catchy melodies that encapsulates the charm of British skiffle music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rock Island Line — This track is considered one of Donegan's signature songs, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling with infectious rhythms that captivated audiences.
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Putting on the Style — The song exemplifies Donegan's playful lyrical style and musicality, making it a quintessential representation of skiffle's lighthearted spirit.
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Battle of New Orleans — This track highlights Donegan's knack for reinterpretation, transforming a traditional American folk song into a lively skiffle anthem that resonates with listeners.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful storytelling with lively rhythms
great for sing-along moments
short bursts of energetic fun
for gatherings and parties
nostalgic charm in every track

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, introspective music
seek complex, lengthy compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'King of Skiffle' was released in 1998, Lonnie Donegan was in a reflective phase of his career, having previously been renowned as a leading figure in the skiffle movement during the late 1950s. This album serves as a retrospective celebration of his earlier work, highlighting classic tracks that defined his influence on British pop and folk music.
Stylistic neighbors: The Kingston Trio· Pete Seeger· The Weavers

Tracklist

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

1 Rock Island Line 3:25
2 Jack O'Diamonds 2:52
3 Tom Dooley 3:22
4 Putting on the Style 3:37
5 I'm Alabammy Bound 1:53
6 Wabash Cannonball 2:01
7 Wreck of the Old 97 2:31
8 Battle of New Orleans 3:12
9 Bring a Little Water Sylvie 2:29
10 Nobody Loves Like an Irishman 2:46
11 Michael Row the Boat Ashore 2:30
12 Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavour 2:49
13 My Old Man's a Dustman (Ballad of a Refuse Disposal Officer) 3:25
14 Cumberland Gap 2:00
15 Don't You Rock Me Daddy-O 1:45
16 Grand Coulee Dam 2:41
17 Have a Drink on Me 2:51
18 Gamblin' Man 3:21
19 Nobody's Child 4:54

What to play next

Listen next

Muleskinner Blues

1999

Go back to

A Golden Hour Of

1990

Full Lonnie Donegan discography Artists like Lonnie Donegan

skiffle

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata