Barbry Allen Lyrics

Barbara Allen by Joan Baez is a haunting folk ballad about love and regret, featuring her signature ethereal vocals and timeless acoustic arrangement.

Barbry Allen Lyrics

Song Details

Artist: Joan Baez

Song: Barbara Allen

Album: How Sweet the Sound

Release Date: N/A

Lyrics

(Traditional)
Twas in the merry month of May
When green buds all were swelling,
Sweet William on his death bed lay
For love of Barbara Allen.



He sent his servant to the town

To the place where she was dwelling,

Saying you must come, to my master dear

If your name be Barbara Allen.



So slowly, slowly she got up

And slowly she drew nigh him,

And the only words to him did say

Young man I think you're dying.



He turned his face unto the wall

And death was in him welling,

Good-bye, good-bye, to my friends all

Be good to Barbara Allen.



When he was dead and laid in grave

She heard the death bells knelling

And every stroke to her did say

Hard hearted Barbara Allen.



Oh mother, oh mother go dig my grave

Make it both long and narrow,

Sweet William died of love for me

And I will die of sorrow.



And father, oh father, go dig my grave

Make it both long and narrow,

Sweet William died on yesterday

And I will die tomorrow.



Barbara Allen was buried in the old churchyard

Sweet William was buried beside her,

Out of sweet William's heart, there grew a rose

Out of Barbara Allen's a briar.



They grew and grew in the old churchyard

Till they could grow no higher

At the end they formed, a true lover's knot

And the rose grew round the briar

Barbara Allen: Joan Baez’s Timeless Rendition of a Classic Ballad

Few folk songs have endured the test of time quite like "Barbara Allen", a traditional ballad that has been passed down through generations. Joan Baez, a renowned figure in the folk revival movement, brought new life to this classic with her hauntingly beautiful rendition. Her version captures the sorrowful essence of the song, making it one of the most memorable interpretations.

The Origins of "Barbara Allen"

Dating back to the 17th century, "Barbara Allen" is a traditional ballad of Scottish or English origin. The song tells the tragic tale of love and loss, where a young man dies of heartbreak after Barbara Allen rejects his love, only for her to realize her mistake too late. The melancholic theme and poetic lyrics have made it a favorite among folk musicians for centuries.

Joan Baez’s Interpretation

Joan Baez, known for her pure soprano voice and deep connection to traditional folk music, recorded "Barbara Allen" in the early 1960s. Her version stays true to the song’s roots while adding an emotional depth that resonates with listeners. The simplicity of her acoustic arrangement allows the poignant lyrics and her ethereal voice to take center stage, making it a standout track in her vast repertoire.

The Song’s Lasting Impact

Baez’s rendition helped introduce "Barbara Allen" to a new generation, ensuring its continued relevance in folk music. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger, but Baez’s version remains one of the most cherished.

Final Thoughts

"Barbara Allen" is more than just a folk ballad—it’s a timeless story of love and regret. Joan Baez’s rendition captures its haunting beauty, ensuring its place in the hearts of folk music lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, her performance is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates classic folk music.