Once Upon a Time cover

Released 57 years ago this June

Once Upon a Time

The Kingston Trio · 1969

54 min · 24 tracks · traditional folk music

A rich tapestry of traditional folk melodies woven with harmonies and poignant storytelling.

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 want

  • seeking immediate high-energy tracks
  • prefer longer, cohesive pieces

Where this album fits

Themes
police brutality· anti-war sentiments· folk storytelling
Career context
By the time 'Once Upon a Time' was released in June 1969, The Kingston Trio had already established themselves as pioneers in the folk music scene since their debut in 1958. This album came during a period of artistic maturation for the group, which sought to adapt their sound while retaining their signature blend of humor and social commentary.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Times They Are a-Changin' by Bob Dylan — Shares poignant social commentary and folk storytelling with a rich melodic structure.
Bridge over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel — Combines lush harmonies with themes of societal struggle and personal reflection in a folk context.
Diamonds & Rust by Joan Baez — Features heartfelt narratives and traditional folk influences, emphasizing emotional depth and social issues.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Hard Travelin' 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

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata