Donkey Riding
"Donkey Riding" is a traditional work song or sea shanty originally sung in Canada, Scotland and the Northeastern United States. It has also become popular as a children's song.[1] The earliest written record of the song dates to 1857.[2] The tune and words are an adaptation of "Highland Laddie".[2] It is generally, but not universally,[1] agreed that the "donkey" of the song title is a reference to the steam donkey, a kind of general-purpose steam engine.[3] Stan Hugill, a sea-music historian, said that he had been informed that the song was also sung in the Gulf Ports as well as being popular at sea.[4]
A steam donkey, a type of steam-powered winch. The title "Donkey Riding" is thought to reference this type of machine.
Recordings
Recordings of this song include:
- The Black Family on their self-titled album
- Fisherman's Friends on Proper Job
- Great Big Sea on the albums Play and Road Rage[5]
- Rick Jones, Julie Stevens and Jonathan Cohen on Songs from Play School
- The Travellers on The Travellers Sing for Kids
- Wade Hemsworth on Folk Songs of the Canadian North Woods
References
- Douglas Coombes (1974) Songs for singing together: fifty songs from around the world taken from the BBC's music programme for schools 'Singing Together' , BBC Publications
- CSU Fresno Ballad Index
- "Alliance Music Publications Inc. - Donkey Riding". Alliancemusic.com. Retrieved 2013-08-31.
- Shantypedia
- "Great Big Sea Embraces Stylistic Mix" (June 14, 1997) Billboard p.46
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