Composer

:

American Traditional

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1937

Average_duration

:

4:24

"Barbara Allen" is a traditional American folk ballad that has been passed down through generations. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the British Isles and was brought over to America by early settlers. The ballad tells the story of a young man named Sir John Graeme who falls in love with a woman named Barbara Allen. Despite his efforts to win her over, Barbara Allen rejects him and he dies of a broken heart. Barbara Allen later regrets her decision and dies of grief as well. The ballad has been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the years, including Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and Johnny Cash. It has also been adapted into various forms, including operas and musicals. "Barbara Allen" typically consists of four verses, each with four lines. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a melancholic tone that reflects the tragic story. The lyrics are characterized by their use of archaic language and poetic imagery, such as "the leaves they grew green upon the ground" and "the red rose grew pale and wan." Despite its simplicity, "Barbara Allen" has endured as a beloved folk song for centuries. Its timeless tale of love and loss continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a true classic of American music.

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