The Columbia River Collection cover

The Columbia River Collection

Woody Guthrie · 1988

47 min · 17 tracks · country music

A tapestry of folk melodies and vivid storytelling, illuminating the American landscape through Guthrie's heartfelt prose.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Roll On Columbia — This track serves as an anthem for the Columbia River, capturing the spirit of exploration and appreciation for nature, reflecting Guthrie's commitment to environmental advocacy.
  • →
    Grand Coulee Dam — This song critiques the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam, illustrating Guthrie's ability to weave social commentary with melodic storytelling, making it a powerful example of his political engagement.
  • →
    Pastures of Plenty — A poignant reflection on labor and hardship, this track encapsulates Guthrie's empathy for working-class struggles, showcasing his signature blend of personal narrative and broader social themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic tales of adventure
  • short, engaging storytelling moments
  • reflective journey through landscapes
  • warmth of communal sing-alongs
  • evocative narratives of the region

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefering lengthy, complex compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
Released posthumously in 1988, The Columbia River Collection showcases Woody Guthrie's deep connection to the Pacific Northwest. This album compiles previously unreleased recordings made during the late 1940s and early 1950s, highlighting his role as a chronicler of American life at a time when he was already celebrated for his activism and musical contributions.
Stylistic neighbors
Pete Seeger· Bob Dylan· Lead Belly

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Oregon Trail 2:44
  • 2 Roll On Columbia 3:10
  • 3 New Found Land 2:07
  • 4 Talking Columbia 3:18
  • 5 Roll Columbia, Roll 2:14
  • 6 Columbia’s Waters 4:21
  • 7 Ramblin’ Blues 1:57
  • 8 It Takes a Married Man to Sing a Worried Song 1:43
  • 9 Hard Travelin’ 2:13
  • 10 The Biggest Thing That Man Has Ever Done 2:20
  • 11 Jackhammer Blues 2:22
  • 12 Song of the Coulee Dam 4:53
  • 13 Grand Coulee Dam 2:57
  • 14 Washington Talkin’ Blues 3:17
  • 15 Ramblin’ Round 2:16
  • 16 Pastures of Plenty 2:25
  • 17 End of My Line 2:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata