The Weavers were an American folk music quartet that emerged during the 1940s and had a significant impact on the American music scene. Comprising of Pete Seeger, Ronnie Gilbert, Lee Hays, and Fred Hellerman, the group popularized folk songs and helped spark the folk revival of the 1950s and ’60s. Their music inspired a generation of musicians, and their songs continue to be celebrated today. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best The Weavers songs of all time, highlighting their contribution to American folk music.
The Weavers’ repertoire covered a wide range of musical genres, from traditional folk songs to protest anthems, and their harmonies and arrangements were unique and influential. Their songs addressed social issues and celebrated American heritage, making them a significant voice in the American music landscape. This article will explore their top 10 songs, discussing their historical significance, impact, and musical qualities. Whether you are a longtime fan or a new listener, this article will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic and enduring folk songs in American music history.
1. Tzena, Tzena, Tzena
“Tzena, Tzena, Tzena” is one of The Weavers’ most popular and recognizable songs, released in 1950. The song is a joyful, upbeat tune with a catchy melody, sung in Hebrew and based on a popular Israeli folk song. The lyrics celebrate life and love, encouraging people to dance and have fun. The song’s title translates to “Come out, come out” in English, and the lyrics describe people coming out to the fields to dance and sing. The Weavers’ version of the song became a hit in the United States and helped introduce Israeli music to a wider audience. “Tzena, Tzena, Tzena” remains a beloved and frequently performed song today, a testament to The Weavers’ enduring influence on American folk music.
2. The Roving Kind
“The Roving Kind” is a classic folk song that was recorded by The Weavers in 1950. The song is a cheerful and uplifting tune, celebrating the free-spirited nature of wanderers and travelers. The lyrics speak of a man who roams from place to place, finding love and adventure along the way. The song’s catchy melody and harmonies, along with the infectious rhythm, make it a joy to listen to. The Weavers’ version of the song became a hit, and it remains a popular and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by various artists. “The Roving Kind” is a testament to The Weavers’ ability to take traditional folk songs and infuse them with their own unique sound, making them accessible to a wider audience and influencing generations of musicians.
3. On Top of Old Smoky
“On Top of Old Smoky” is a classic American folk song that was popularized by The Weavers in the 1950s. The song’s roots can be traced back to traditional Appalachian folk music, and The Weavers added their own harmonies and arrangements to create a memorable and haunting rendition. The song’s lyrics describe a lost love, with the narrator lamenting the loss of his or her sweetheart on top of a mountain. The Weavers’ version of the song became a hit, and it remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. “On Top of Old Smoky” is a testament to The Weavers’ ability to take traditional folk songs and make them their own, creating a lasting legacy in American music history.
4. Wasn’t That a Time
“Wasn’t That a Time” is a powerful and poignant song recorded by The Weavers in 1950. The song is a celebration of the power of community and the importance of coming together in times of struggle. The lyrics describe a gathering of friends who share stories and songs, finding comfort and solace in each other’s company. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a sense of urgency and passion, making it a rallying cry for those who seek social justice and change. “Wasn’t That a Time” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently performed song today. The song’s message of unity and solidarity resonates with audiences across generations, a testament to The Weavers’ enduring influence on American folk music.
5. The Hammer Song
“The Hammer Song,” also known as “If I Had a Hammer,” is a classic protest anthem that was recorded by The Weavers in 1950. The song’s lyrics describe a world where love and justice prevail, and the narrator imagines using a hammer to build a better world. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a sense of urgency and passion, making it a powerful call to action for those who seek social justice and change. “The Hammer Song” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently performed song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s message of hope and unity continues to inspire and motivate people to work towards a more just and equitable world.
6. Kisses Sweeter Than Wine
“Kisses Sweeter Than Wine” is a classic folk love song that was recorded by The Weavers in 1951. The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s love for their partner, using the metaphor of wine to describe the sweetness of their kisses. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a warm and romantic feel, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. “Kisses Sweeter Than Wine” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s timeless message of love and devotion continues to resonate with audiences, a testament to The Weavers’ ability to create enduring and memorable songs.
7. When the Saints Go Marching In
“When the Saints Go Marching In” is a classic gospel hymn that was recorded by The Weavers in 1951. The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s hope for a better future in heaven, where they will join the saints in a joyous celebration. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a lively and upbeat feel, making it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings. “When the Saints Go Marching In” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s message of hope and faith continues to inspire and uplift audiences, a testament to The Weavers’ ability to infuse traditional songs with their own unique sound and style.
8. Wimoweh
“Wimoweh,” also known as “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” is a popular African folk song that was recorded by The Weavers in 1952. The song’s lyrics describe the narrator’s encounter with a lion, and the Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a lively and playful feel. The song became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s catchy melody and infectious rhythm have made it a favorite of audiences around the world. “Wimoweh” is a testament to The Weavers’ ability to bring traditional songs from different cultures to a wider audience, helping to bridge cultural divides and inspire appreciation for the richness and diversity of global music.
9. So Long
“So Long” is a classic folk song that was recorded by The Weavers in 1950. The song’s lyrics describe a farewell between two lovers, with the narrator expressing their sorrow at the end of the relationship. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a mournful and melancholic feel, making it a powerful and emotional ballad. “So Long” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s timeless message of lost love and heartbreak continues to resonate with audiences, a testament to The Weavers’ ability to create enduring and memorable songs that capture the universal experiences of human emotion.
10. Midnight Special
“Midnight Special” is a classic American folk song that was popularized by The Weavers in the 1950s. The song’s lyrics describe a train that travels at midnight, carrying prisoners to their destination. The Weavers’ harmonies and arrangements give the song a lively and rhythmic feel, making it a popular choice for sing-alongs and gatherings. “Midnight Special” became a hit and remains a beloved and frequently covered song today, with versions recorded by artists across genres. The song’s message of hope and freedom, despite the constraints of captivity, continues to resonate with audiences, a testament to The Weavers’ ability to infuse traditional folk songs with their own unique sound and style.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
