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The origins of this Canadian folk song are unclear, but its tune may derive from the Scottish song 'Hielund Laddie'.
flute usa canada canadian traditional fiddle banjo ireland tin whistle historic united states britain bones period historical stephen foster 19th century nineteenth century
Artist picture
Musicians performing the 19th century folk music of Canada, the United States, Ireland and the U.K. on period instruments.
The artists that participated to produce these recordings of 19th century period folk music have all been costumed staff, guides, and tradespeople at historic sites across Canada (Upper Canada Village, Black Creek Pioneer Village, etc.). The music presented is performed on historically accurate instruments such as mandolin, fiddle, tin-whistle, wooden flute, bones, banjo, melodeon, button accordion, guitar, jaw harp and zither.
Song Info
Charts
Peak #135
Peak in subgenre #18
Author
traditional
Rights
2002 Brent Santin
Uploaded
May 25, 2006
Track Files
MP3
MP3 1.3 MB 128 kbps 1:25
Story behind the song
The donkey referred to in this chantey is not the animal, but a steam-powered "donkey engine" used for hoisting cargo to and from a ship, in place of sailors. The origin of this Canadian song is unclear, but its tune might derive from the Scottish song "Hielund Laddie". Half way through the song, one can hear the distinctive galloping foot-driven rhythm popular in French Canadian folk music. (Harmonica, jew's-harp, spoons, vocals - G. Mallon; Bones, button accordion, feet - B. Santin)
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