Carry Me Back To Old Virginny

Comment by Scott Danneker on April 16, 2018 at 8:28pm

Very nice Tom, I do not think that I have heard that version before.  I like the reference to the Dismal Swamp because I live just to the south of it.  Thanks for posting it.

Comment by Tom Berghan on April 18, 2018 at 2:47am

Thanks Scott!  The verses are “mostly” as written by James Bland. I just altered a few lines to exclude the terms “darkey” and “massa.”  I removed slavery from the song. My version is now about growing old, cherishing life and home, and missing those who have gone. I alter many of the songs that I perform in this way. I claim artistic license. I hope no one minds.  Best Wishes, Tom

Comment by Paul Draper on April 20, 2018 at 8:13am

Hi Tom - thanks to Strumelia, I was lucky enough to record Bland's O Dem Golden Slippers with the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra and singer Edward Pleasant on the Black Manhattan Vol. 3 CD.  Check it out!   http://www.classicalmusiccommunications.com/artist.php?id=blackmanh...

Comment by Tom Berghan on April 20, 2018 at 8:56am

That is awesome Paul!  The the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra is pretty much a national treasure! Right? Where else can we hear a lot of that repertoire?! And they found the right banjoist!  That’s for certain. What a great gig! I’m a big fan of your playing. I’ll seek out this CD. Thanks Paul! Tom

Comment by Paul Draper on April 20, 2018 at 9:10am

That means a lot to me, Tom. Thanks!

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