Schroon Lakers Say "Good Night, Irene"

 

Take a guess at what one of the songs the performers at Monday’s regular acoustic jam session at the Boat House played last night?

That's right: "Goodnight, Irene" or "Irene, Goodnight”.  The phrase has appeared in countless headlines and been sprayed painted on countless plywood sheets on boarded up homes and business. And it got us thinking about the song’s history. A little digging reveals it’s a 20th century American folk standard --  written in 3/4 time – and was first recorded by American blues musician Huddie 'Lead Belly' Ledbetter in 1932.

The song was widely covered in the 1950s and was made popular by the band The Weavers (sheet music above) as well as Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, Little Richard, The Kingston Trio and Willie Nelson.

After the jump you can hear Huddie's version.