WMBR Special Events Calendar

This Month

"PRETTY SARO" on WMBR's Subject to Change Program

Hosted by:

Originally aired:

Like most vintage folk songs, "Pretty Saro"'s history is marked by multiple spellings ("Saro" or "Pretty Sarah," for instance) and uncertain origins (English and/or Celtic). It's a ballad about a trope as old as time: Love Stinks. The narrator is a poor, landless nomad pining after a lass who herself is desperate for the economic and physical security a freeholder (or landowner) allegedly could provide. The song experienced a revival during the early 20th Century in the Carolinas and has become a staple ever since. UK folklorist and icon Shirley Collins recorded at least three versions in different configurations. We'll hear versions of this mournful tune by Sam Amidon, Shirley Collins, Kacy & Clayon and on and on.

Location: 88.1 FM

For more information about this event, contact:
Patrick Bryant
subject2wmbr@gmail.com
617-253-4000

Visit: https://twitter.com/subject2chang