i'd like to learn some American folk songs that I can play and sing. I've been learning all these short pieces in two-finger, clawhammer, and scrugs. But still I don't have anything I can share with anyone that is a "whole" piece.
I'm thinking songs like; little liza jane, shortnin bread, dinah. Any resources would be great
Listen to Pete and Peggy Seeger.
It sounds like if you link up your short pieces, an then sing words, like 'oh lil liza oh lil liza', or some stuff about how cakes, and then end with purpose, you'd have it.
Wayne Erbsen has a lot of books with songs like that. Backpocket Old-Time Songbook, Backpocket Bluegrass Songbook, Rural Roots of Bluegrass . . .
Edited by - earlstanleycrowe on 05/30/2023 04:33:21
Find a site that has lyrics, melody notes and chords to songs you want to learn. Then learn to play backup as you sing the song. Then you can share with others. Backup doesn't have to be fancy, strum, vamp, roll, whatever is easy for you to do and sing at the same time.
Ok good advice. Does anyone know of books or sites that have this kind of material?
Do a search on “Oak Publications.” They’re long gone, but you’ll get hits on several sellers who have some. Some of the titles should fit your needs. Even Amazon appears to have a few.
Google folk songs with lyrics. There’s lots out there. You can find the guitar chords pretty easily. Try the Ultimate Tabs Site as well. Start with the 3 chord stuff. Have fun!
I really enjoy Clifton Hicks' traditional banjo recordings. He generally notes in the description of each video what recording he learned the song from and also makes good recommendations for the "genuine" old artist like Pete Seeger and others who actually made those recordings long ago. Also he has how-to's for a lot of songs if you're having trouble learning by ear.
Down in the valley
Home on the range
500 miles
Michael row the boat ashore
My Darlin Clementine
why does Dinah have to blow her horn?
because the mail train is coming and the porter has to get the mail bags loaded so the train can snatch em
but that ain't what's goin on in this song:
the banjo player is in the kitchen if you know what the meaning of the code is
want some more pie? How about a little more coffee? Hmmmm?
now there's a song
Edited by - Helix on 06/13/2023 19:53:35
Go to your Library
I think on line is better
quote:
Originally posted by majestyGo to your Library
I do go to my library. I live in the NW so there is a dearth of books on banjo playing.
Here's a link to over 70 favorite campfire sing alongs.
https://wildernesstimes.com/campfire-songs/
Most of them are just 2 or 3 chords.
You can then look them up on YOUTUBE to hear how they sound, if you never heard them.
And you can look them up by title, on CHORDIE, and transpose them to G or C, capo to match.
https://www.chordie.com/browseson
Like Sherry said: You don't have to play a dazzling banjo lead on every song. Just do simple rolls or strums.
For over half a century, I've been playing the chords, and letting the people carry the melody.
I get paid for it, and they hire me back!
