Once Upon a Time
The Kingston Trio · 1969
54 min · 24 tracks · traditional folk music
A nostalgic blend of traditional folk melodies and poignant storytelling that captures the essence of the late '60s American folk revival.
Top tracks — play these first
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Hard Travelin' Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Police Brutality — This short, impactful track boldly addresses social injustice, showcasing the Kingston Trio's engagement with contemporary issues rather than solely traditional folk themes.
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Where Have All the Flowers Gone? — This classic song reflects on the cyclical nature of war and peace, serving as a poignant commentary that resonates deeply during times of conflict.
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Tom Dooley — A staple in the Kingston Trio's repertoire, this track exemplifies their ability to blend narrative storytelling with melodic charm, remaining a highlight of American folk music.
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Rovin' Gambler/This Train — The medley showcases the Trio’s vocal harmony and rhythm while telling a compelling story of chance and fate, encapsulating their folk roots.
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Wimoweh — This track adds an eclectic flair to the album with its infectious melody, demonstrating the Trio's versatility and influence beyond typical folk boundaries.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- rich storytelling with harmonies
- wave-like pacing for immersion
- nostalgic reflections on life
- short tracks for quick enjoyment
- for sing-along moments
Maybe skip if you
- seeking immediate high-energy tracks
- prefer longer, cohesive pieces
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Addresses social issues, marking a departure from earlier themes in their catalog.
- Themes
- police brutality· anti-war sentiments· folk storytelling
- Career context
- Released in June 1969, 'Once Upon a Time' marked The Kingston Trio's return to the studio after a brief hiatus. This album followed their notable string of hits in the late 1950s and early 1960s, during which they played a significant role in popularizing folk music across America. By this time, the band's commercial success had waned somewhat, leading them to explore themes reflective of contemporary social issues.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Limeliters· Peter, Paul and Mary· The Brothers Four
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Hard Travelin' Start here 2:11
- 2 Early Mornin' Rain 2:40
- 3 The M.T.A. 2:55
- 4 Tomorrow Is a Long Time 3:30
- 5 Rovin' Gambler/This Train 1:45
- 6 Police Brutality 0:49
- 7 One Too Many Mornings 1:58
- 8 Colours 3:16
- 9 A Day in Our Room 0:39
- 10 Wimoweh 1:44
- 11 Tom Dooley 2:50
- 12 Goodnight Irene 2:36
Disc 2
- 1 Hard, Ain't It Hard 2:31
- 2 Get Away John 2:25
- 3 The Ballad of the Shape of Things 3:41
- 4 Greenback Dollar 3:22
- 5 Babe, You've Been on My Mind (Mama, You've Been on My Mind) 2:10
- 6 Tijuana Jail 2:10
- 7 Silicone Bust 1:12
- 8 I'm Going Home 1:19
- 9 Where Have All the Flowers Gone? 2:56
- 10 Scotch and Soda 1:57
- 11 Blind Date 2:05
- 12 Saints Go Marching In 1:54
What to play next
The World Needs a Melody
1973
Continues the storytelling and folk essence with fresh themes and sounds.
Children of the Morning
1966
Sets up the narrative style and nostalgic feel leading into this album.
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
The Times They Are a-Changin'
Bob Dylan
Shares poignant social commentary and folk storytelling with a rich melodic structure.
Bridge over Troubled Water
Simon & Garfunkel
Combines lush harmonies with themes of societal struggle and personal reflection in a folk context.
Diamonds & Rust
Joan Baez
Features heartfelt narratives and traditional folk influences, emphasizing emotional depth and social issues.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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