Composer

:

English Traditional

Average_duration

:

2:23

"Captain Kidd" is a traditional English folk song that tells the story of the infamous pirate William Kidd, who was executed for piracy and murder in 1701. The song is believed to have originated in the late 18th or early 19th century and has been passed down through generations of folk musicians. The song has a simple, catchy melody and is typically performed with guitar or banjo accompaniment. It is often sung in a call-and-response style, with the lead singer singing a verse and the audience or other singers responding with the chorus. The lyrics of "Captain Kidd" tell the story of Kidd's life and exploits as a pirate, from his early days as a privateer to his eventual downfall and execution. The song is divided into several verses, each of which describes a different aspect of Kidd's life and career. The first verse describes Kidd's early days as a privateer, sailing under the British flag and attacking French ships during the War of the Spanish Succession. The second verse tells of Kidd's transformation into a pirate, as he turns to piracy after being denied a commission as a privateer. The third verse describes Kidd's infamous voyage to the Indian Ocean, where he attacked and plundered several ships belonging to the East India Company. The fourth verse tells of Kidd's capture and trial, and his eventual execution for piracy and murder. Despite its dark subject matter, "Captain Kidd" is a lively and upbeat song that has become a staple of the English folk music tradition. It has been recorded by numerous artists over the years, including Burl Ives, The Kingston Trio, and Great Big Sea. The song's popularity has also led to several adaptations and variations over the years, with some versions featuring additional verses or altered lyrics. However, the basic structure and melody of the song have remained largely unchanged, making it a beloved and enduring part of the English folk music canon.

More....