wow.. STUNNIng.. love T.E.F'.s voice.. truly a magNIFicent instrument.. anyone know who the guitarist was? That was some truly great accompaniment.. I 'd wager it was some great Jazz player...
Oh, this is gorgeous. The effect of that powerful voice with just a guitar... devastating! What do we have to replace him, and artists like him? A bunch of kids grabbing their crotches, dry-humping each other, and lip-syncing along to some auto-tuned, over-amped, computer-modified version of their real voices. Doesn't it make you sick?
@marianware I can't agree. There are some fanstastic musicians coming up right now. There is also a lot of the crap that you describe, but that's ALWAYS the case. Artists like Elvis and the Beatles were beaten to number one spots by crappy bands nobody remembers now. People only remember the true musicians, but there was just as much bad music thirty, forty or fifty years ago as there is now, and there are true musicians now, people like Damien Rice and Jim James and M. Ward and Glen Hansard.
@CrownedWithLaurels Glen Hansard was a musician in the 1990s in a band called The Frames. I personally don't think he counts as a musician from this era."
Why can't people just accept that we're not longer in an era of culture, but a time of technology. You know how in history books you always scroll over the late 1800s, early 1900s? That's because most of society's focus was placed on culture. Think of the last 30 years as that type of a society.
@Sshelly34213 Glen Hansard has had a very RECENT solo career. Google it. To say that the 1800s and 1900s were an "era of culture" and that modern times are an era of technology is ridiculous. The 1800s? You mean the era known as THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION? Technology is always a huge factor of any era, from the Stone Age to now. This is as much a time of culture as any - maybe you just don't have your eyes open to see it because it doesn't fit in with YOUR idea of culture.
@CrownedWithLaurels But he's not NEW, that was my MAJOR point. There are no new incoming musicians like there were in the 1990s, 80s, 70s, 60s, and 50s, and there will be no new creative movement imo.
Lol, do you think I'm saying the late 1800s and early 1900s were an era of culture because I'm elitist? It has nothing to do with that, I'm saying it because it's true. When you think of political events you think the civil war, WW2, the civil rights movement in the 50s. You don't think 1910..
@CrownedWithLaurels Hansard is a leftover from the 1990s, it has nothing to do with "my idea of culture" stop being so ridiculous. I'm not saying this because I think "the modern era sucks" or else why on EARTH would I enjoy musicians from the 1990s so much? Why would I mention the 1990s if I felt that way? ...seriously stop and think about that for a moment. There are musicians I enjoy from right now, but I see them as leftover dwindling culture that will NOT be replaced by anything new.
@CrownedWithLaurels I also think it's completely selfish for people to want a new cultural movement to come around considering the way things are in society right now. We're too focused on culture, we're obsessed with ourselves and our own individual interests to care about bigger things going on in the world right now. Europe is nearly on the brink of economic collapse and no one gives a fuck? By the year 2020, one eighth of the world's surface will remain dry land, oil reserves are nearly gone
@CrownedWithLaurels Don't tell me to "google it" I have all of his work thanks...did you even KNOW he was in a band called The Frames? What's your favorite album from The Frames? Hmm...yea that's what I thought, some fan you are. (I personally prefer his work from The Frames to that of his solo career)
Also, everyone and their mother knows who Glen Hansard is, but I love the fact that you think you're totally awesome for name dropping him. That's cute.
@CrownedWithLaurels You need to open YOUR eyes and stop caring so much about petty junk culture and musicians, and start caring about the fact that society is falling apart around you and in front of your eyes. And we're all going to end up doing that eventually, or we're toast as a species and as a society. The crash of the 20s occurred because people were so absorbed in culture that they forgot about the physical world they were living in. We're heading right down that road.
@CrownedWithLaurels By the way....The Industrial Revolution occurred in the mid 1800s and was exhausting itself by 1920....sheesh, go read a goddamn history book please.
In 10-15 years you'll see that I was completely right. History books will look at the era of 1970-200? as an era of culture. We just happen to be seeing the fizzling out of it all, it's deceiving for those who are expecting "the next great movement" of whatever.
@CrownedWithLaurels You don't need to tell me about all the "good music out there" like you're some kind of hipster douche bag. I already listen to it-and have been for several years- without your help.
I'm not going to be lectured by someone who's not even old enough to drink legally. So on that note, have a nice day.
@Sshelly34213 You made a statement that I disagreed with, and I think it's hilarious that you're acting like I have no right to challenge it. You made a public comment on a discussion board for heaven's sake! You have an idea about where "society" is heading, and you have every right to think what you want. I, however, have a right to think it's nonsense, and to say so if I wish. But I won't argue with someone who resorts to personal attacks instead of genuine debate, so that's all I'll say.
@CrownedWithLaurels Oh no...I made a statement that YOU did not agree with (that I thought music today was dwindling in its creativity-as well as why, which is something most people don't even bother to do I might add.) and you went on to degrade me because of this opinion. (also using Hansard as a false example of new creative sounds-he's from the 90s, therefore he doesn't count.) So please don't attempt to play the victim here, it's bullshit.
@CrownedWithLaurels My points on "where society is heading" had strictly to do with my own opinion that culture is dwindling, which is why I brought it up in the first place. I perceive this time a time where we are leaving a period of culture an entering a politically charged era. I don't really care if you disagree or not, but that's why I don't agree with you. This is no reason to say that I'm not looking for good artists, Alberta Cross, Dawes, are some great bands I enjoy today.
@CrownedWithLaurels But they are not in anyway as creative of affective musically as anything from the past 40 years or so was. Do you honestly think Hansard's solo work is as affective as his work from The Frames? (The creative, unique, and strange chord progressions can't compare to his solo work. Most of his solo work is very similar to a lot of acoustic songwriting today.) The 90s and 80s alternative rock movement was the last creativity movement, there's not much to add to music in general
@Sshelly34213 OK, listen. I think music today is as vibrant and creative as any other time. You don't. That's fine, it's a matter of opinion. We obviously have different music tastes. Why that somehow means I'm "obsessed with petty culture" and I "don't care about the state of society", I have no idea. We just have different music tastes for fuck's sake! Can we please just leave it there?
@CrownedWithLaurels I'm not saying there aren't some nice musicians today, but I firmly believe that we are leaving an "era of culture" and entering an era of political events. So society's focus is starting to leave culture, therefore the demand for creativity, and unique sounds is dwindling. There hasn't been a unique sound since grunge and perhaps Radiohead/Smashing pumpkins alternative rock sounds.
superb singer, great voice. He was in great form in 1961, I was just listening to his 'songs of the civil war' from that year, wonderful singing... especially 'lorena.'
There are so many versions of this song, which is defined as "Traditional", meaning too old to have an actual authorship. Definitely a haunting spiritual quality, but in most forms not the rhythm or call and response style associated with traditional gospel. In any case, people like Bill Munroe clearly arranged a more "popular" tune from something handed down from 1800's, if not earlier. I would bet that it traces back to Appalachia, and later assumed various forms, echoing both folk and gospel.
@rainbot I have a hard time comparing the two. Both men were blessed with incredible talents....and we were blessed in turn to see and hear their performances. Their styles are so different that I'm happy just listening to both. Can't you see them standing next to one another in the heavenly choir ?
JD definitely gets points for sheer bass, but Ford has way more melody and smoothness to his voice. I definitely can't agree with JD doing a better job in general, though he sure can carry that bass.
most singers as they age lose the muscle tone in their voice box. Ol Ern just seemed ageless and so powerful. God truly blessed him with a timeless powerful voice. thank you for letting us see and hear this miracle.
A sensitive and timeless treatment that breathes new life into an old-time gospel classic. Every syllable is delivered with emotional and artistic integrity.
He is a southern folk singer and knew how to sing in his songs what the poor people in the south went through. The south has truely risen from the ashes to power almost equal to washington D.C.
@worseto I don't really agree with that, poor southern people take a lot of crap from their employers and politicians who try to manipulate them. At least from what I've heard from people In know who lived there. In general they have the highest poverty rates, highest drop outs rates, and their minimum wage is sub par compared to other states. All in all the South still has far to go.
bef I rec'd the Lord, my gparnts believed u find ur own way, listened 2 gospel in 60's. This song I listened 2-reached me "who shed His precious blood 4 me" I was 10. now means ev'n more, I have ben a wanderer from Alaska>Cal>FL>& nbtween. It still is. rich in Jesus
Agreed. I see where that pitiful young fool has posted on several of these Christian song pages. He doesn't seem to understand that these are hymns, religious songs, for religious people. Whether I count myself among them or not, I don't go about picking petty arguments with them on their own pages. That nonsense belongs in a forum somewhere. All well, he'll learn when he's older and has a bit more maturity to him. Hopefully.
@bloodandgoldpirate There's no real evidence to say exactly what this song is about, let alone what it was originally intended as. Spiritual hymn? It was used as one in church no doubt, but no one wrote the song specifically as a hymn. As for it's origins, It could be about an escaped slave trying to go home for all we know. The spirit of folk is that it's quite anonymous and vague. It's obvious that there are religious references, but that doesn't necessarily make it a hymn.
@Sshelly34213 When folks refer the the River Jordan, it's usually considered to be a reference to "crossing over in death." That is, the singer is referring to crossing Jordan to see the Heavenly Father/Redeemer/Saviour, along with any who have passed on before. Doesn't matter what you call it or how you lable it, the song is "spiritual' in nature, and is beautifully done in this instance.
@steelmagnolia58 Well, my point is that the term hymn is not a proper category as a hymn is defined as a "metrical composition adapted for singing in a religious service," whereas a folk song is defined as "belonging to the music of a people or area, passed down orally, anonymous"-although sometimes that's not always the case.
There is a great deal of documentation with hymns, if this were originally created for mass, there would be some record of it. That's all I was trying to point out.
@steelmagnolia58 I'd like to also point out that spirituality and religion are of course two completely different things. I do agree that he did it beautifully, this is the best version I've ever heard.
I just think it's important for people to understand the difference between hymn and folk song-whether it's spiritual or not.
@gstuffjoe I'm perfectly "Chilled" and no I have nothing against "Ernie Ford and his faith." I just have trouble believing the ignorance of people claiming this song to be a hymn when it is well know that it's a traditional folk song.
When do I show any evidence of "freaking out?" You make it sound like I'm angry or something, when all I did was discuss the possible origins of a very vague folk song. It sounds to me like you are offended at the idea that the song may not be wholly religious.
@iamintheburg I believe someone above me said it's a folksong, which of course it is. But any song that glorifies God is a hymn, I think. Im not sure that was several days ago.
@001Bigred It is NOT a hymn! A hymn is intentionally written for a religious ceremony or service, this song is simply a traditional folk ballad, regardless of whether it's religious in nature. (We can never even know that for sure, it could very well be written by a person who simply wants to physically go home. You don't know the author's true intention)
This song is a traditional folk ballad, nothing more nothing less.
@001Bigred For example there are plenty of versions that don't even refer to Jesus, the line "I'm going back to see my savoir" is not in every version." This is a song that has been modified over time and so the original intention of the song is definitely lost with time. The use of "over jordon" was used by slaves to refer to freedom, perhaps freedom in the North. So was it even intended as a religious song? It could have been a song used by escaped slaves as a signal for something. Who knows?
@001Bigred I used to be a Catholic and we NEVER sang this song in church or any gospel songs. Most gospel songs are NOT hymns, even if they're sung in church. They're traditional ballads that were adopted by religious people into masses. We sang actual hymns that were intentionally written for religious masses in Catholic masses. I've noticed Wayfaring Stranger is usually sung in Southern Baptist masses, but it's certainly not limited to that.
@001Bigred If you're interested in knowing more about it's true origins or viewing discussions on the subject I'd be glad to send you a link to sites that discuss this very thing. You can probably find some stuff on youtube if you look well enough.
@iamintheburg Everyone here. This song is NOT a hymn, it's a traditional folk song. A hymn is specifically written for a religious ceremony and for a church mass in particular. People really don't understand the difference between the two. just because God and spirituality may have been a possible inspiration for the song doesn't mean it's a hymn. People are fiercely ignorant if they believe that.
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Bur don't you think there's something wrong with the fact that people are so hypocritical about this issue? Considering the fact that their families were immigrants who probably sent money back to their own families. I know that's what my family did when they came here from Italy. People came and continue to come here for economic opportunity. The fact that we take that away from Mexican farmers who are living in squalor and complain about them coming here is hypocritical and mean.
No, Ernie never recorded Old Man River. There's a CD by him called "This Lusty Land" that has some nice folk songs on it though. I would recommend it to anyone who likes this type of music.
What A Beautiful, Beautiful Song! And Such A Deep Speritual Voice. I Have Never Heard This Befor And What A Treet It Is For Me. Thank You So Much For Shairing.
This was from one of Ernie's last weekly "FORD SHOW" appearances. And the reason you're seeing this in color, on videotape, is because Ernie had the foresight to preserve HIS videotapes from this period when NBC usually "wiped" their video copies in order to reuse the tape stock...
It does not get any better than this. TEF also had a great deal of sincerity in his singing, especially of sacred/gospel (good news) music. This was due to his deep spiritual conviction to the love of Jesus as Saviour of Mankind, and the son that God sacrificed (John 3:16/KJV) to give us that Blessed Assurance. His message is clear in this song of praise.
I mean this is an anonymous folk song, meaning no one knows where it comes from. They say "over Jordan" which gives me reason to believe that it was originally written by an African American. Some people think it originated in Appalachia, in that case it could have come from Irish immigrants. It could have originally been sung by a wandering traveler and the words could have been changed to a more religious setting. Who knows really.
I actually never saw the Christian undertones until I looked up the lyrics and thought about it. Either way the sentiment is still the same, a weary person looking for peace in their life.
Really, and why would that be the case, because I know Bill Monroe couldn't sing? I've heard Monroe's version and it's terrible and I'm a bluegrass musician and singer. Did you ever wonder why Monroe's most popular time and biggest selling records were when two guys named Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were playing and singing in The Bluegrass Boys? Wow, if I know more than you about this and I'm the "village idiot," what does that make you?
After listening to JD Sumner, J Cash, B Monroe, Emmylou Harris & Alison Kraus, and even Dusty Springfield, I still think none come close to interperting this song as well as TEF. He just owns this song.
You must be joking. Bill Monroe could barely sing in key. There's a reason he had others do the lead singing in his band pretty much his entire career.
TN Ernie Ford might have the best bass baritone voice to ever sing popular music - every song I hear is astounding. he knows what the song is about, and he sings it so clearly with each note covered in deep emotional overtones. What a lesson in music! What a lesson in art!
I might even venture to regard him as strictly a bass. His recording of Mule Train and various things he did with Johnny Cash lend that creedance, but I guess it depends on how bass baritone is defined.
I love how you used the word "please" as part of a statement that you really had no intentions of using manners in. Touche. My grandmother uses the same computer that I do, and at times I do not remember to logout. So i'll be sure to pass the message. I am sorry you do not know my god, I hope you find him, and soon, before anything bad happens and he's the first person you go blaming when everything goes wrong. Good luck ;)
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Ugh. No I don't know "your god" and don't care to so stop shoving it down my throat!
Who's the one not using manners here?
You're grandmother's obnoxious, please tell her to mind her own business.
I cam here to watch a vid not be lectured about "the good old days" when people forced everyone in society to be Christian and segregated black people. It's 2009, you can join us if you'd like, or you can sit and mope about how everything sucks now.
I'm not shoving anyhting down your throat. You DO RESERVE THE RIGHT to simply GET OFF of this page. Overt your eyes if that makes you feel better ;) She is slightly obnoxious, yes...but she did not even begin to bark about the good ole days. And please do not get her started. And there was just a s well, NO moping going on here...it was a very simple statement she made...you need to improve on your social skills if something of such an innocent nature offends you.
If "I am sorry you do not know my God" appears to you as shving it down your throat, you have a severe case of hypersensitivity. And yes I'm argueing as well, but in my spare time when I'm not working or with my fiance'. Sad little miserable person? You have just revealed the extent of your immaturity. Thank you for that ;)
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You're an awful speller, you've just revealed the extent or your stupidity.
Stop talking about God I don't give a shit.
Do you realize that an outcome is going to occur whether you believe in said God or not? Either you're just going to die, or you'll go somewhere. Your belief isn't going to stop or change this outcome. It doesn't matter in the slightest what you believe in.
It does. "you don't know my God" what does that mean? Why do I need to know that? Why should I care? it was irrelevant
Really useless information, why should I even care? it's like saying I don't know Ernie, your imaginary friend. To an atheist, God is essentially the same thing. It doesn't exist to me so saying "you don't know my God" is basically a petty, egotistical, rude, and overly emotional thing to say. What is it supposed to mean? Because I "know your God" I'll somehow become magically enlightened? You're more enlightened than me? Give me a break, do you see how rude it is now?
As much as I love JD Sumner and even Johnny Cash's version. This is without a doubt the most instrumentally and vocally rich cover by far. Simply beautiful. As a base myself I enjoy listening to a man singing like a man. The male voice has been mute for the last few decades.
This is the first time I heard this song. Am a fan of Ford for his boogie music, but was checking out some of his other songs. This is simply amazing! If he is a close second, I can only imagine how the other guy sings it. But this was soul stirring enuf for me, it definitely goes on my favorites list.
JD was a quartet bass, not a soloist and he certainly was not a lyric singer. Ernie sings this with the tone and ability of a singing bass (basso cantante), something JD could not have done. Ernie did not show off his low notes in his singing but he had a great low C. There is more to singing than showing off low notes.
It's not known whether the song is religious, it isn't even known where it comes from.
I actually didn't know it had Christian undertones until I looked up the lyrics. Often times with folk songs a stranger would come into town and the song would remain there. Usually a wandering stranger as these songs would get around quickly. This song actually could have been sung by a wayfaring traveler wanting to go home. Of course religion was a part of daily life on the frontier.
It's possible that it originated in Appalachia and could have been written by Irish immigrants. It's also very possible that it was written by an African American slave or perhaps servant/sharecropper. The fact that they mention "over Jordan" is a huge clue. Europeans and Americans rarely reference Jordan in their folk songs. However, imo, the song resembles European folk songs more so than it does spirituals. Whether or not it was inherently religious we'll never know.
I mean think of it, they're essentially playing telephone over the centuries.
Of course most people were religious then so It's a very high possibility that whoever wrote the song, whether it be or wandering stranger, believed in God. I was simply saying that it could have been more focused on the fact that the person was literally traveling rather than the fact that it's a spiritual journey.
The thing with songwriters is that they often times tell their troubles to music, I think that's why so many songs throughout the centuries have been about love for example. It's very possible that the song may have been casual and then altered for religious settings. Or if it was written by an African American, a spiritual journey would have been the most obvious considering their treatment at the time. I'm leaning more towards the latter because Over Jordon is frequently used in AA folk songs
However being "very likely" isn't exactly the truth, I don't want to be presumptuous, we really have no idea where it comes from. I think that's what makes folk songs so haunting and brilliant and still effective today. We really can't put ourselves in the orator's shoes and go anywhere we want. As I said before I used to think it was a song simply about a traveler weary for home because I didn't make the religious connection.
There are dozens of versions of this song posted here. I defy anyone to find one even close to this. In this catigory there is Tennessee Ernie Ford and then there is everyone else.
Absolutely the Best,,,, well other than my very own Grandpa Max. What awesome and loving words to take a step beyond. Thar is Mom, Love and Thanks Luna
With more than 300 versions of this song on YouTube, some dreadful some not bad, the ones I listened to anyway. This is the best by a long way. A really long way.
yes a good version of a nice song, but have you heard Frankie Laines version? I would give it a try,all the best from another T E Ford fan of 60 years standing. My all time favourite is his version of MULE TRAIN. Nobody can equal it .
Yes, I have Frankie's 'Call of The Wild' LP, which has his version of Wayfaring Stranger. Note, however, that they are slightly different songs. Technically, this songs is supposed to called 'Wayfaring Pilgrim," as it as on all Ernie's record covers. Yes, I prefer to Ernie's to Frankie's. But they were two of the best.
It is so sad when you think about todays talent that a lot of people accept, they are either without taste or unaware that todays crap can not compare with talent from days gone by such as Mr. T E Ford
I'm happy you've been introduced to the great "Tennessee" Ernie Ford. Sadly, he was taken from us in 1991 but he left an incredible legacy of unforgetable music. He could sing in this more serious bass voice but he also delighted audiences with a more comical nasal "country" voice. He also made us laugh as "Cousin Ernie Ford" on "I Love Lucy". A VERY funny clip from "Lucy" is right here on YouTube.
Unfortunately, the times that gave audience to great talent like Tennessee Ernie Ford doesn't exist anymore. America has fallen long and far since those days.
brilliant.. just brilliant..
ichingiching 2 weeks ago
Never hit a false note in his life.
misspaddylee 3 weeks ago
the VERY BEST baritone voice EVER
GKDSoldier 1 month ago
I'm no expert, but I've never heard a bass or bass-baritone with a more pleasing vocal tone Tenessee Ernie Ford.
larrydonguy 2 months ago 2
I think this is one of the best Gospel songs and this is the best rendition of it ever.
samuelsingh1117 2 months ago in playlist GOSPEL
Just beautiful! Thanks for this upload.
LALABAI1 6 months ago
Wonderful. Just wonderful.
MsMaynes 6 months ago
I have to play this song in November in a flute competition... And I think I just found my inspiration!!!!!!
moonkricket1 6 months ago
wow.. STUNNIng.. love T.E.F'.s voice.. truly a magNIFicent instrument.. anyone know who the guitarist was? That was some truly great accompaniment.. I 'd wager it was some great Jazz player...
timjmoran 7 months ago
Oh, this is gorgeous. The effect of that powerful voice with just a guitar... devastating! What do we have to replace him, and artists like him? A bunch of kids grabbing their crotches, dry-humping each other, and lip-syncing along to some auto-tuned, over-amped, computer-modified version of their real voices. Doesn't it make you sick?
marianware 8 months ago 14
@marianware I can't agree. There are some fanstastic musicians coming up right now. There is also a lot of the crap that you describe, but that's ALWAYS the case. Artists like Elvis and the Beatles were beaten to number one spots by crappy bands nobody remembers now. People only remember the true musicians, but there was just as much bad music thirty, forty or fifty years ago as there is now, and there are true musicians now, people like Damien Rice and Jim James and M. Ward and Glen Hansard.
CrownedWithLaurels 5 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels Glen Hansard was a musician in the 1990s in a band called The Frames. I personally don't think he counts as a musician from this era."
Why can't people just accept that we're not longer in an era of culture, but a time of technology. You know how in history books you always scroll over the late 1800s, early 1900s? That's because most of society's focus was placed on culture. Think of the last 30 years as that type of a society.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@Sshelly34213 Glen Hansard has had a very RECENT solo career. Google it. To say that the 1800s and 1900s were an "era of culture" and that modern times are an era of technology is ridiculous. The 1800s? You mean the era known as THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION? Technology is always a huge factor of any era, from the Stone Age to now. This is as much a time of culture as any - maybe you just don't have your eyes open to see it because it doesn't fit in with YOUR idea of culture.
CrownedWithLaurels 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels But he's not NEW, that was my MAJOR point. There are no new incoming musicians like there were in the 1990s, 80s, 70s, 60s, and 50s, and there will be no new creative movement imo.
Lol, do you think I'm saying the late 1800s and early 1900s were an era of culture because I'm elitist? It has nothing to do with that, I'm saying it because it's true. When you think of political events you think the civil war, WW2, the civil rights movement in the 50s. You don't think 1910..
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels Hansard is a leftover from the 1990s, it has nothing to do with "my idea of culture" stop being so ridiculous. I'm not saying this because I think "the modern era sucks" or else why on EARTH would I enjoy musicians from the 1990s so much? Why would I mention the 1990s if I felt that way? ...seriously stop and think about that for a moment. There are musicians I enjoy from right now, but I see them as leftover dwindling culture that will NOT be replaced by anything new.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels I also think it's completely selfish for people to want a new cultural movement to come around considering the way things are in society right now. We're too focused on culture, we're obsessed with ourselves and our own individual interests to care about bigger things going on in the world right now. Europe is nearly on the brink of economic collapse and no one gives a fuck? By the year 2020, one eighth of the world's surface will remain dry land, oil reserves are nearly gone
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels Don't tell me to "google it" I have all of his work thanks...did you even KNOW he was in a band called The Frames? What's your favorite album from The Frames? Hmm...yea that's what I thought, some fan you are. (I personally prefer his work from The Frames to that of his solo career)
Also, everyone and their mother knows who Glen Hansard is, but I love the fact that you think you're totally awesome for name dropping him. That's cute.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels You need to open YOUR eyes and stop caring so much about petty junk culture and musicians, and start caring about the fact that society is falling apart around you and in front of your eyes. And we're all going to end up doing that eventually, or we're toast as a species and as a society. The crash of the 20s occurred because people were so absorbed in culture that they forgot about the physical world they were living in. We're heading right down that road.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels By the way....The Industrial Revolution occurred in the mid 1800s and was exhausting itself by 1920....sheesh, go read a goddamn history book please.
In 10-15 years you'll see that I was completely right. History books will look at the era of 1970-200? as an era of culture. We just happen to be seeing the fizzling out of it all, it's deceiving for those who are expecting "the next great movement" of whatever.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels You don't need to tell me about all the "good music out there" like you're some kind of hipster douche bag. I already listen to it-and have been for several years- without your help.
I'm not going to be lectured by someone who's not even old enough to drink legally. So on that note, have a nice day.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@Sshelly34213 You made a statement that I disagreed with, and I think it's hilarious that you're acting like I have no right to challenge it. You made a public comment on a discussion board for heaven's sake! You have an idea about where "society" is heading, and you have every right to think what you want. I, however, have a right to think it's nonsense, and to say so if I wish. But I won't argue with someone who resorts to personal attacks instead of genuine debate, so that's all I'll say.
CrownedWithLaurels 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels Oh no...I made a statement that YOU did not agree with (that I thought music today was dwindling in its creativity-as well as why, which is something most people don't even bother to do I might add.) and you went on to degrade me because of this opinion. (also using Hansard as a false example of new creative sounds-he's from the 90s, therefore he doesn't count.) So please don't attempt to play the victim here, it's bullshit.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels My points on "where society is heading" had strictly to do with my own opinion that culture is dwindling, which is why I brought it up in the first place. I perceive this time a time where we are leaving a period of culture an entering a politically charged era. I don't really care if you disagree or not, but that's why I don't agree with you. This is no reason to say that I'm not looking for good artists, Alberta Cross, Dawes, are some great bands I enjoy today.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@CrownedWithLaurels But they are not in anyway as creative of affective musically as anything from the past 40 years or so was. Do you honestly think Hansard's solo work is as affective as his work from The Frames? (The creative, unique, and strange chord progressions can't compare to his solo work. Most of his solo work is very similar to a lot of acoustic songwriting today.) The 90s and 80s alternative rock movement was the last creativity movement, there's not much to add to music in general
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@Sshelly34213 OK, listen. I think music today is as vibrant and creative as any other time. You don't. That's fine, it's a matter of opinion. We obviously have different music tastes. Why that somehow means I'm "obsessed with petty culture" and I "don't care about the state of society", I have no idea. We just have different music tastes for fuck's sake! Can we please just leave it there?
CrownedWithLaurels 3 months ago
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Sshelly34213 3 months ago
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@CrownedWithLaurels I'm not saying there aren't some nice musicians today, but I firmly believe that we are leaving an "era of culture" and entering an era of political events. So society's focus is starting to leave culture, therefore the demand for creativity, and unique sounds is dwindling. There hasn't been a unique sound since grunge and perhaps Radiohead/Smashing pumpkins alternative rock sounds.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
superb singer, great voice. He was in great form in 1961, I was just listening to his 'songs of the civil war' from that year, wonderful singing... especially 'lorena.'
ShawDAMAN 10 months ago
@ShawDAMAN His CW Lps - Yes, those ARE wonderful. Always liked "Virginia's Bloody Soil." They need to be released on CD.
jonahbegone 9 months ago
Loved him when I was a kid. Love him still. I can just sit back and let his voice sooth and move me. Love it! Love him! That simple.
mtlyb 10 months ago
He sings it a little fast I think..but otherwise he's my favorite =)
blackshadowsnoopy 10 months ago
There are so many versions of this song, which is defined as "Traditional", meaning too old to have an actual authorship. Definitely a haunting spiritual quality, but in most forms not the rhythm or call and response style associated with traditional gospel. In any case, people like Bill Munroe clearly arranged a more "popular" tune from something handed down from 1800's, if not earlier. I would bet that it traces back to Appalachia, and later assumed various forms, echoing both folk and gospel.
FlyJohnny100 11 months ago
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Do you know his album "Ernie Sings and Glenn Picks" with Glenn Campbell?
If you like Ernie, you'll love that album, which I think may have been his last.
jojojo943 11 months ago
I LOve Ernie and he puts true feeling into the song . That said , in my opinion JD Sumner did a better job on this song and was THE bass singer.
rainbot 1 year ago
@rainbot I have a hard time comparing the two. Both men were blessed with incredible talents....and we were blessed in turn to see and hear their performances. Their styles are so different that I'm happy just listening to both. Can't you see them standing next to one another in the heavenly choir ?
JTB1956 1 year ago
@rainbot
JD definitely gets points for sheer bass, but Ford has way more melody and smoothness to his voice. I definitely can't agree with JD doing a better job in general, though he sure can carry that bass.
yourbluegirl 10 months ago
most singers as they age lose the muscle tone in their voice box. Ol Ern just seemed ageless and so powerful. God truly blessed him with a timeless powerful voice. thank you for letting us see and hear this miracle.
nhgranite1 1 year ago
or is it epoch?
krfuffle 1 year ago
one word : epic !
ashbal30 1 year ago
It just felt Afro to me!
Always & when Eva did it!
So I researched it, and it is. Afro American Spiritual,
the foundation of not just Blues, but Blue Grass & Country!
jor99912 1 year ago
elvis would have grown a pair of tits would he have listened to that voice...
donjaysus 1 year ago
A sensitive and timeless treatment that breathes new life into an old-time gospel classic. Every syllable is delivered with emotional and artistic integrity.
flamingocrazee 1 year ago
you should hear red molly do this song
tylenoljohnson 1 year ago
He is a southern folk singer and knew how to sing in his songs what the poor people in the south went through. The south has truely risen from the ashes to power almost equal to washington D.C.
worseto 1 year ago
This song could have been about the slave tribulations of the past and the south in bad times.
allenrs 1 year ago
@worseto I don't really agree with that, poor southern people take a lot of crap from their employers and politicians who try to manipulate them. At least from what I've heard from people In know who lived there. In general they have the highest poverty rates, highest drop outs rates, and their minimum wage is sub par compared to other states. All in all the South still has far to go.
Sshelly34213 1 year ago
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MyrandaLH 1 year ago
Tennessee Ernie Ford...man does this bring back memories of growing up in the South. Such a clear pure voice.
donnabelle70 1 year ago 4
Bloody awesome !!
Scabbers1957 1 year ago
TEF is one of my favorties. Reminds me of my Great Grandfather who had a great baritone voice and sang in church. Very fond memories.
Thank you TEF Enterprises!!!!!!
dreamboatman 1 year ago
This is great...
GodInAnAlcove 1 year ago
breath taking
littlebluecheese 1 year ago
oh wow
Krehyv 1 year ago 2
That is true, we are all immigrants living in this world.
sheltv100 1 year ago
Tigert, you are ridiculous. It's a folk song. GO look up the 16 horsepower version. That's how the song is supposed to be heard.
Knightofjedi 1 year ago
wow! this is haunting ..man i got tears in my eyes right now :(
waylo4526 1 year ago
bef I rec'd the Lord, my gparnts believed u find ur own way, listened 2 gospel in 60's. This song I listened 2-reached me "who shed His precious blood 4 me" I was 10. now means ev'n more, I have ben a wanderer from Alaska>Cal>FL>& nbtween. It still is. rich in Jesus
Roshea1956 2 years ago
This is a beautiful version of this song. Both guitarist and singer performs this song as should be done, well. tennessee, rock on!
jetsafox 2 years ago
Praise the Lord for all He did through the willing vessel of faith, named Tennessee Ernie Ford.
MorganJServices 2 years ago
Great Great Great !!!!
You should check Ry Cooder acoustic version ... !
nikolawesthemkg 2 years ago
My word Shelly...
Have you got something against Ernie Ford and his faith?
Or are you on youtube trying to pick childish online fights with people?
You did the exact same thing when him and Gordon Macrae sang "O holy Night"...
One person made a comment that you disagreed with and you threw a temper tantrum like a four year old.
You sound like an over-opinionated loud mouth brat that has way too much free time on her hands...
Yikes, chill the F*** out.
gstuffjoe 2 years ago
Agreed. I see where that pitiful young fool has posted on several of these Christian song pages. He doesn't seem to understand that these are hymns, religious songs, for religious people. Whether I count myself among them or not, I don't go about picking petty arguments with them on their own pages. That nonsense belongs in a forum somewhere. All well, he'll learn when he's older and has a bit more maturity to him. Hopefully.
bloodandgoldpirate 2 years ago
@bloodandgoldpirate There's no real evidence to say exactly what this song is about, let alone what it was originally intended as. Spiritual hymn? It was used as one in church no doubt, but no one wrote the song specifically as a hymn. As for it's origins, It could be about an escaped slave trying to go home for all we know. The spirit of folk is that it's quite anonymous and vague. It's obvious that there are religious references, but that doesn't necessarily make it a hymn.
Sshelly34213 1 year ago
@Sshelly34213 When folks refer the the River Jordan, it's usually considered to be a reference to "crossing over in death." That is, the singer is referring to crossing Jordan to see the Heavenly Father/Redeemer/Saviour, along with any who have passed on before. Doesn't matter what you call it or how you lable it, the song is "spiritual' in nature, and is beautifully done in this instance.
steelmagnolia58 8 months ago
@steelmagnolia58 Well, my point is that the term hymn is not a proper category as a hymn is defined as a "metrical composition adapted for singing in a religious service," whereas a folk song is defined as "belonging to the music of a people or area, passed down orally, anonymous"-although sometimes that's not always the case.
There is a great deal of documentation with hymns, if this were originally created for mass, there would be some record of it. That's all I was trying to point out.
Sshelly34213 8 months ago
@steelmagnolia58 I'd like to also point out that spirituality and religion are of course two completely different things. I do agree that he did it beautifully, this is the best version I've ever heard.
I just think it's important for people to understand the difference between hymn and folk song-whether it's spiritual or not.
Sshelly34213 8 months ago
@gstuffjoe I'm perfectly "Chilled" and no I have nothing against "Ernie Ford and his faith." I just have trouble believing the ignorance of people claiming this song to be a hymn when it is well know that it's a traditional folk song.
When do I show any evidence of "freaking out?" You make it sound like I'm angry or something, when all I did was discuss the possible origins of a very vague folk song. It sounds to me like you are offended at the idea that the song may not be wholly religious.
Sshelly34213 1 year ago
Just want to give you a shout out for a job well done.
Tennessee Ernie has a beautiful voice, and your film is very compelling.
Beautiful job!
SoundSmarterNow 2 years ago 2
Simply haunting..... LOVE IT
lmcowen64 2 years ago 2
Gives me chills. Of course it's talking of Heaven. His Saviour shed His precious blood for me...
how could that be misconstrued?
001Bigred 2 years ago 21
@001Bigred I'm late to the debate. Who misconstrued it???
iamintheburg 6 months ago
@iamintheburg I believe someone above me said it's a folksong, which of course it is. But any song that glorifies God is a hymn, I think. Im not sure that was several days ago.
001Bigred 5 months ago
@001Bigred It is NOT a hymn! A hymn is intentionally written for a religious ceremony or service, this song is simply a traditional folk ballad, regardless of whether it's religious in nature. (We can never even know that for sure, it could very well be written by a person who simply wants to physically go home. You don't know the author's true intention)
This song is a traditional folk ballad, nothing more nothing less.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
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Sshelly34213 3 months ago
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Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@001Bigred For example there are plenty of versions that don't even refer to Jesus, the line "I'm going back to see my savoir" is not in every version." This is a song that has been modified over time and so the original intention of the song is definitely lost with time. The use of "over jordon" was used by slaves to refer to freedom, perhaps freedom in the North. So was it even intended as a religious song? It could have been a song used by escaped slaves as a signal for something. Who knows?
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@001Bigred I used to be a Catholic and we NEVER sang this song in church or any gospel songs. Most gospel songs are NOT hymns, even if they're sung in church. They're traditional ballads that were adopted by religious people into masses. We sang actual hymns that were intentionally written for religious masses in Catholic masses. I've noticed Wayfaring Stranger is usually sung in Southern Baptist masses, but it's certainly not limited to that.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@001Bigred Sorry for going on about this, but I'm a folk enthusiast and it bothers me when people get this stuff wrong.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@001Bigred If you're interested in knowing more about it's true origins or viewing discussions on the subject I'd be glad to send you a link to sites that discuss this very thing. You can probably find some stuff on youtube if you look well enough.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
@iamintheburg Everyone here. This song is NOT a hymn, it's a traditional folk song. A hymn is specifically written for a religious ceremony and for a church mass in particular. People really don't understand the difference between the two. just because God and spirituality may have been a possible inspiration for the song doesn't mean it's a hymn. People are fiercely ignorant if they believe that.
Sshelly34213 3 months ago
Perfect voice for ther song Ernie! Great! Two thumbs up !!! This was 1956.
JohnPiperBoots 2 years ago
He's come a long way from Lucy's 'Cousin Ernie!'
...Sort of like Jim Nabors' 'Gomer Pyle!' (ha ha!:o)
oldedrum 2 years ago
best and most overlooked version on youtube
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
funny how all the illegal immigrants nowadays don't count, the ones who are unable to get work due to our trading policies with Mexico.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
Why not lay off the politics and just enjoy the music?
carey9idaho 2 years ago 3
Excuse me what politics?? ....explaining the origin of a song=politics....
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
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Bur don't you think there's something wrong with the fact that people are so hypocritical about this issue? Considering the fact that their families were immigrants who probably sent money back to their own families. I know that's what my family did when they came here from Italy. People came and continue to come here for economic opportunity. The fact that we take that away from Mexican farmers who are living in squalor and complain about them coming here is hypocritical and mean.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
Has he ever covered Old Man River?
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
No, Ernie never recorded Old Man River. There's a CD by him called "This Lusty Land" that has some nice folk songs on it though. I would recommend it to anyone who likes this type of music.
60Cascade 2 years ago
Sweet, thanks so much! I'll check that out
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
What A Beautiful, Beautiful Song! And Such A Deep Speritual Voice. I Have Never Heard This Befor And What A Treet It Is For Me. Thank You So Much For Shairing.
roybo1930 2 years ago
This was from one of Ernie's last weekly "FORD SHOW" appearances. And the reason you're seeing this in color, on videotape, is because Ernie had the foresight to preserve HIS videotapes from this period when NBC usually "wiped" their video copies in order to reuse the tape stock...
fromthesidelines 2 years ago
It does not get any better than this. TEF also had a great deal of sincerity in his singing, especially of sacred/gospel (good news) music. This was due to his deep spiritual conviction to the love of Jesus as Saviour of Mankind, and the son that God sacrificed (John 3:16/KJV) to give us that Blessed Assurance. His message is clear in this song of praise.
78timothy 2 years ago
It depends.
I mean this is an anonymous folk song, meaning no one knows where it comes from. They say "over Jordan" which gives me reason to believe that it was originally written by an African American. Some people think it originated in Appalachia, in that case it could have come from Irish immigrants. It could have originally been sung by a wandering traveler and the words could have been changed to a more religious setting. Who knows really.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
I actually never saw the Christian undertones until I looked up the lyrics and thought about it. Either way the sentiment is still the same, a weary person looking for peace in their life.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
Wow!!
Leadingnorth 2 years ago
jocwalk- If there is such a thing as a village idiot... you would surely qualify!!!
mkjboise 2 years ago
Really, and why would that be the case, because I know Bill Monroe couldn't sing? I've heard Monroe's version and it's terrible and I'm a bluegrass musician and singer. Did you ever wonder why Monroe's most popular time and biggest selling records were when two guys named Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were playing and singing in The Bluegrass Boys? Wow, if I know more than you about this and I'm the "village idiot," what does that make you?
jocwalk 2 years ago
Sad that such a voice is gone
privas228 2 years ago 2
Try Selah's version.. awesome
crankyani 2 years ago
After listening to JD Sumner, J Cash, B Monroe, Emmylou Harris & Alison Kraus, and even Dusty Springfield, I still think none come close to interperting this song as well as TEF. He just owns this song.
ropanueva 2 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Try Bill Monroe..I think he does it the best!
mkjboise 2 years ago
You must be joking. Bill Monroe could barely sing in key. There's a reason he had others do the lead singing in his band pretty much his entire career.
jocwalk 2 years ago
JD sounds deep. But for some reason TEF gives the song soul to it i guess but its more richer? I guess that is how i can describe it xD
Lv3xNoxMacro 2 years ago 3
I think this bloke does this song better then anyone else.
Westyrulz 2 years ago 5
I loved his voice so much. I could cry everytime I hear his songs. There will never be another one like him. RIP ERNIE
DIANNEELEE 2 years ago 6
beautifully done - minimal accompaniment. His voice is the only thing needed...that, and the emotion he puts into every note
walkshe 2 years ago 5
gut wrenching.beautifully done
kern39743 2 years ago 4
Oh what a voice,perfecto mondo.
acceitunas 2 years ago 4
This is just awesome. I had forgotten how beautifully this man could sing.
bellacantatrice 2 years ago 5
TN Ernie Ford might have the best bass baritone voice to ever sing popular music - every song I hear is astounding. he knows what the song is about, and he sings it so clearly with each note covered in deep emotional overtones. What a lesson in music! What a lesson in art!
Tigert1018 3 years ago 43
I might even venture to regard him as strictly a bass. His recording of Mule Train and various things he did with Johnny Cash lend that creedance, but I guess it depends on how bass baritone is defined.
Gilligan346 2 years ago 2
@Tigert1018 =
Couldn't agree with you more about the great voice of Ernie Ford. A talent given by God, no question!
tigerlilly66 1 year ago 2
who is there to take is place??
tl52 3 years ago 4
To JLMiller57
What? JD is nothing more than a novelty act. "Look at me, I can sing low."
Listen to the tone and flow of this. Effortless. Not phrasey like JD.
carey9idaho 3 years ago 4
I agree. There is no beauty in JD Sumner's voice. It exists to impress those interested in world records and such.
chanse117 3 years ago 2
Why does anyone think that you have to be religious to believe in God. Religion is man made, God is not!!!
bigathlete2009 3 years ago 2
...what are you basing this on? Your own bias. You can't say God isn't man made, only that you don't believe it is.
Please don't state your opinions as facts, it's quite rude and presumptuous.
For example, I don't believe there are any Gods at all, but I'm not stating it as a fact.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
I love how you used the word "please" as part of a statement that you really had no intentions of using manners in. Touche. My grandmother uses the same computer that I do, and at times I do not remember to logout. So i'll be sure to pass the message. I am sorry you do not know my god, I hope you find him, and soon, before anything bad happens and he's the first person you go blaming when everything goes wrong. Good luck ;)
bigathlete2009 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Ugh. No I don't know "your god" and don't care to so stop shoving it down my throat!
Who's the one not using manners here?
You're grandmother's obnoxious, please tell her to mind her own business.
I cam here to watch a vid not be lectured about "the good old days" when people forced everyone in society to be Christian and segregated black people. It's 2009, you can join us if you'd like, or you can sit and mope about how everything sucks now.
btw Oh Holy Night is always sung on tv.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
I'm not shoving anyhting down your throat. You DO RESERVE THE RIGHT to simply GET OFF of this page. Overt your eyes if that makes you feel better ;) She is slightly obnoxious, yes...but she did not even begin to bark about the good ole days. And please do not get her started. And there was just a s well, NO moping going on here...it was a very simple statement she made...you need to improve on your social skills if something of such an innocent nature offends you.
bigathlete2009 2 years ago
"You don't know my god"
yes you are.
I didn't write it, you did.
I have no life? I'm sorry, you're not on here bickering and arguing as well? Oh wait you are.
What a sad little miserable person you are, I truly feel for you.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
If "I am sorry you do not know my God" appears to you as shving it down your throat, you have a severe case of hypersensitivity. And yes I'm argueing as well, but in my spare time when I'm not working or with my fiance'. Sad little miserable person? You have just revealed the extent of your immaturity. Thank you for that ;)
bigathlete2009 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
You're an awful speller, you've just revealed the extent or your stupidity.
Stop talking about God I don't give a shit.
Do you realize that an outcome is going to occur whether you believe in said God or not? Either you're just going to die, or you'll go somewhere. Your belief isn't going to stop or change this outcome. It doesn't matter in the slightest what you believe in.
It does. "you don't know my God" what does that mean? Why do I need to know that? Why should I care? it was irrelevant
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
Really useless information, why should I even care? it's like saying I don't know Ernie, your imaginary friend. To an atheist, God is essentially the same thing. It doesn't exist to me so saying "you don't know my God" is basically a petty, egotistical, rude, and overly emotional thing to say. What is it supposed to mean? Because I "know your God" I'll somehow become magically enlightened? You're more enlightened than me? Give me a break, do you see how rude it is now?
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
certainly. Oh! oh! enlightened one!
bigathlete2009 2 years ago
As much as I love JD Sumner and even Johnny Cash's version. This is without a doubt the most instrumentally and vocally rich cover by far. Simply beautiful. As a base myself I enjoy listening to a man singing like a man. The male voice has been mute for the last few decades.
jameslopate 3 years ago 4
i heard this song when i was taking my music examination.. but a group was singing it a male ensemble... i wanna kno who that was any ideas?
flameshot2 3 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
JD was better... Tennessee can't hit the low notes JD can and that's what makes this song. I love Ford but he's a close 2nd on this song
jlmiller57 3 years ago
This is the first time I heard this song. Am a fan of Ford for his boogie music, but was checking out some of his other songs. This is simply amazing! If he is a close second, I can only imagine how the other guy sings it. But this was soul stirring enuf for me, it definitely goes on my favorites list.
medicvet 3 years ago 3
JD was a quartet bass, not a soloist and he certainly was not a lyric singer. Ernie sings this with the tone and ability of a singing bass (basso cantante), something JD could not have done. Ernie did not show off his low notes in his singing but he had a great low C. There is more to singing than showing off low notes.
cameratamaestro 3 years ago 3
Amazing voice!
the photos are excellent in this video.
thank you
SweetChick10forever 3 years ago 3
I remember watching the Tennessee Ernie Ford show with my parents. He had a wonderful, soulful voice.
simplyDiann 3 years ago 3
Im not a religious person in any sense but i really do love this song. Hes such and amazing singer.
RaidenTheAlmighty 3 years ago 7
Did somebody really rate me down for not being religious?
RaidenTheAlmighty 3 years ago 3
yes you ought to believe in God you blasphemer
spallyman 3 years ago
Never.
RaidenTheAlmighty 3 years ago
It's not known whether the song is religious, it isn't even known where it comes from.
I actually didn't know it had Christian undertones until I looked up the lyrics. Often times with folk songs a stranger would come into town and the song would remain there. Usually a wandering stranger as these songs would get around quickly. This song actually could have been sung by a wayfaring traveler wanting to go home. Of course religion was a part of daily life on the frontier.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
It's possible that it originated in Appalachia and could have been written by Irish immigrants. It's also very possible that it was written by an African American slave or perhaps servant/sharecropper. The fact that they mention "over Jordan" is a huge clue. Europeans and Americans rarely reference Jordan in their folk songs. However, imo, the song resembles European folk songs more so than it does spirituals. Whether or not it was inherently religious we'll never know.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
"Whether or not it is inherently religious we'll never know." Are you serious? Have you actually ever read the lyrics?
PierzStyx 2 years ago
Lyrics can be changed over years...
I mean think of it, they're essentially playing telephone over the centuries.
Of course most people were religious then so It's a very high possibility that whoever wrote the song, whether it be or wandering stranger, believed in God. I was simply saying that it could have been more focused on the fact that the person was literally traveling rather than the fact that it's a spiritual journey.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
The thing with songwriters is that they often times tell their troubles to music, I think that's why so many songs throughout the centuries have been about love for example. It's very possible that the song may have been casual and then altered for religious settings. Or if it was written by an African American, a spiritual journey would have been the most obvious considering their treatment at the time. I'm leaning more towards the latter because Over Jordon is frequently used in AA folk songs
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
However being "very likely" isn't exactly the truth, I don't want to be presumptuous, we really have no idea where it comes from. I think that's what makes folk songs so haunting and brilliant and still effective today. We really can't put ourselves in the orator's shoes and go anywhere we want. As I said before I used to think it was a song simply about a traveler weary for home because I didn't make the religious connection.
Sshelly34213 2 years ago
That there's singing.
PihaSandDunes 3 years ago 9
There are dozens of versions of this song posted here. I defy anyone to find one even close to this. In this catigory there is Tennessee Ernie Ford and then there is everyone else.
carey9idaho 3 years ago 4
wow! this may be my favorite version of this song!!!
mblankenship45577 3 years ago
What a classy singer! Brilliant! Please check my own humble version of this wonderful song.
Clarislombartsongs 3 years ago
Absolutely the Best,,,, well other than my very own Grandpa Max. What awesome and loving words to take a step beyond. Thar is Mom, Love and Thanks Luna
lunigal 3 years ago 2
haunting
fiestamonet 3 years ago 5
I forgot how absolutely pleasing Ford's voice was. I love this vid! Thanks
lonemapper 3 years ago 3
With more than 300 versions of this song on YouTube, some dreadful some not bad, the ones I listened to anyway. This is the best by a long way. A really long way.
mcdade10 3 years ago 19
Thank you for posting so many of his songs. He is such a marvelous singer/person.
fanbks 3 years ago 2
Beautiful number by and excellent artist. Bristol should be proud....
barrymore 3 years ago 3
Don't know anyone who can sing this song any better than TEF. Just remarkable. You don't get this type of entertainment on TV anymore.
gamecocks56 3 years ago 6
Listen to the Version of J.d. Sumner and the Stamps that you also find at yt. It`s different to this excelent version of TEF but worth listening.
elpresley 3 years ago
The best I've heard. Gives you goose bumps.
rarich3 3 years ago 9
yes a good version of a nice song, but have you heard Frankie Laines version? I would give it a try,all the best from another T E Ford fan of 60 years standing. My all time favourite is his version of MULE TRAIN. Nobody can equal it .
RILEYJEFF 3 years ago
Yes, I have Frankie's 'Call of The Wild' LP, which has his version of Wayfaring Stranger. Note, however, that they are slightly different songs. Technically, this songs is supposed to called 'Wayfaring Pilgrim," as it as on all Ernie's record covers. Yes, I prefer to Ernie's to Frankie's. But they were two of the best.
Sicamous 3 years ago
God bless all you wayward angels on your way home to meet your maker of God.
avoirdupois01 3 years ago
It is so sad when you think about todays talent that a lot of people accept, they are either without taste or unaware that todays crap can not compare with talent from days gone by such as Mr. T E Ford
biltom 3 years ago 10
incredible song, just incredible
jafomab 4 years ago 4
Wow, what a beautiful voice, why have I never heard of this guy?
What guitar is the guy playing, it's beautiful.
karennerakkaren 4 years ago 2
I'm happy you've been introduced to the great "Tennessee" Ernie Ford. Sadly, he was taken from us in 1991 but he left an incredible legacy of unforgetable music. He could sing in this more serious bass voice but he also delighted audiences with a more comical nasal "country" voice. He also made us laugh as "Cousin Ernie Ford" on "I Love Lucy". A VERY funny clip from "Lucy" is right here on YouTube.
33Keith33 3 years ago 3
Who is the guitarist? He plays some extraordinarily beautiful stuff ...
mlaprarie 4 years ago 2
Unfortunately, the times that gave audience to great talent like Tennessee Ernie Ford doesn't exist anymore. America has fallen long and far since those days.
InfiniteMushroom 4 years ago 10