Sixty years ago, four singers got together and formed a group, performing Traditional Ballads, Folk Songs from around the world, Blues, Labor Songs, etc. They sang about the common man, and were immensely popular. They popularized obscure folk songs which are now considered standards like "On Top of Old Smokey" and "Midnight Special." The personal beliefs of the members of The Weavers, combined with the many songs they sung that were supportive of worker's rights and other "Socialist" themes caused them to be Black-listed in the 1950's. Eventually this faded, and their concerts and later their reunion concerts generally sold out.
It is amazing that a group formed 60 years ago still has three of its four members living. Lee Hayes passed away in 1981, but Ronnie Gilbert, Pete Seeger, and Fred Hellerman are all still living. Seeger and Gilbert both still regularly perform. I first sent this to Pete Seeger, and he was very kind to provide me with addresses for Ronnie Gilbert and Fred Hellerman. Pete did not keep the extra one, and signed them both. I managed to get Ronnie Gilbert and Fred Hellerman to also sign two instead of just one. This is one of my favorites.
1 comment:
Very cool... Pete Seeger is exactly one day younger than my grandfather, who is also named Pete, coincidentally.
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