What makes The Smithsonian Folkways Collection by Lead Belly notable?

This collection is significant for its comprehensive overview of Lead Belly's impact on American music, capturing songs that have become standards in folk and blues. It received critical acclaim for preserving and promoting traditional American music, influencing generations of artists and contributing to the cultural understanding of African American musical heritage. Released posthumously in 2015, The Smithsonian Folkways Collection showcases Lead Belly's extensive catalog, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in American folk and blues music. This compilation brings together his varied performances and recordings, which had been influential since the mid-20th century, further solidifying his legacy within the folk revival movement.

Who is The Smithsonian Folkways Collection for?

The Smithsonian Folkways Collection works well if you're into wave-like pacing throughout tracks, rich storytelling in every song and for long afternoon listens.

How many songs are on The Smithsonian Folkways Collection?

The Smithsonian Folkways Collection has 108 tracks, running approximately 305 minutes.

The Smithsonian Folkways Collection

Lead Belly · 2015

305 min · 108 tracks · blues

A rich tapestry of American folk traditions interwoven with Lead Belly's powerful storytelling and resonant vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Midnight Special — This track serves as an iconic example of Lead Belly's ability to turn a traditional song into an evocative narrative about hope and freedom. Its infectious rhythm and memorable melody have made it a staple in folk music.
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Goodnight Irene — As one of Lead Belly's most famous songs, this piece encapsulates deep emotional longing while also showcasing his unique vocal style and guitar prowess. Its widespread adaptation by other artists has cemented its status in American music history.
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Scottsboro Boys — This song addresses a poignant historical event, demonstrating Lead Belly's commitment to social justice and storytelling through music. Its narrative quality highlights the intersection of art and activism during a turbulent time in American history.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing throughout tracks
rich storytelling in every song
for long afternoon listens
immersive exploration of traditions

Maybe skip if you

prefer concise, punchy tracks
seek modern production styles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released posthumously in 2015, The Smithsonian Folkways Collection showcases Lead Belly's extensive catalog, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in American folk and blues music. This compilation brings together his varied performances and recordings, which had been influential since the mid-20th century, further solidifying his legacy within the folk revival movement.
Stylistic neighbors: Muddy Waters· Son House· Robert Johnson

New to Lead Belly? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

1 Irene (Goodnight Irene) 1:56
2 The Bourgeois Blues 2:21
3 Fannin Street (Mister Tom Hughes Town) 3:34
4 The Midnight Special 2:05
5 John Henry 3:13
6 Black Girl (Where Did You Sleep Last Night) 2:10
7 Pick a Bale of Cotton 1:33
8 Take This Hammer 2:18
9 Cotton Field 2:09
10 Old Riley 2:01
11 Rock Island Line 2:07
12 The Gallis Pole 2:48
13 Ha-Ha This a Way 1:37
14 Sukey Jump 1:07
15 Boll Weevil 3:09
16 Scottsboro Boys 4:35
17 Governor O.K. Allen 2:38
18 Governor Pat Neff 3:41
19 There's a Man Going Around Taking Names 1:28
20 On a Monday 1:50
21 You Can't Lose Me, Cholly 2:40
22 Keep Your Hands Off Her 2:55
23 We Shall Be Free 2:34

Disc 2

1 Alabama Bound 2:20
2 Almost Day 1:08
3 Fiddler's Dram 2:31
4 Green Corn 1:18
5 Sally Walker 2:43
6 Bring Me a Little Water, Silvy 0:51
7 Julie Ann Johnson 0:44
8 Linin' Track 1:13
9 Whoa, Back, Buck 2:13
10 Shorty George 1:31
11 Ham and Eggs 1:46
12 Moanin' 1:04
13 Out on the Western Plains 1:35
14 Noted Rider 2:53
15 Meeting at the Building 1:02
16 Good, Good, Good (Talking, Preaching) / We Shall Walk Through the Valley 2:15
17 Ain't You Glad (The Blood Done Signed My Name) 2:23
18 I'm So Glad, I Done Got Over 1:24
19 The Hindenburg Disaster 3:25
20 Ella Speed 5:52
21 Haul Away Joe 2:52
22 Old Man 2:38
23 Sweet Jenny Lee 1:54
24 Jean Harlow 1:43
25 Laura 1:44
26 Queen Mary 4:46