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If you noticed blunt omissions, mis-interpretations or even out-and-out errors,
please let me know:
Arnold Rypens
Rozenlaan 65
B-2840 Reet (Rumst)
Artist: Blue Sky Boys
Author: traditional
Label: Bluebird
Year: 1940
Prison ballad of Irish origin. Lyrics based on Willis Maberry's poem The Roane County Prisoner (circa 1915) who served time there for murder. When they finally let him go he was nurtured for the rest of his life by his victim's family. The song was first cut as Willis Mabry by Andy Patterson and Warren Caplinger for Gennett in 1929 and 1930, but both versions were shelved.
Covers:
Roy Acuff [as The Precious Jewel, same melody, new lyrics]
Wade Mainer's Mountaineers [idem]
Elton Britt [idem]
Delmore Brothers [idem]
Hank Locklin [all as The Precious Jewel]
Grandpa Jones [as Willis Mayberry]
Louvin Brothers [as Precious Jewel]
Carl Smith [idem]
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band [idem]
Charlie Haden & Pat Metheny [idem; instrumental]
Holy Modal Rounders [idem]
If you noticed blunt omissions, mis-interpretations or even out-and-out errors,
please let me know:
Arnold Rypens
Rozenlaan 65
B-2840 Reet (Rumst)