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Arnold Rypens
Rozenlaan 65
B-2840 Reet (Rumst)
Artist: Lefty Frizzell
Author: Marijohn Wilkin/Danny Dill
Label: Columbia
Year: 1959
Saga song much younger than it looks and inspired by true facts: the murder of a New Jersey priest and the confusing story of a veiled woman visiting Rudolph Valentino's grave with fresh flowers every day. In the song a man is convicted for murdering his best friend. He had an alibi but couldn't produce it in court: while the killing took place the widow shared his bed. Story told from the perspective of the executed in his own grave, visited by his loved one in mourning. This song revitalised Lefty's career. With Marijohn Wilkin on piano.
Covers:
Marijohn Wilkin [own answer version as My Long Black Veil with slightly different lyrics: 'The few at the scene were wrong as can be, cause the man they accused that night was with me']
Sally Timms [with Brendan Croker]
Rick Danko [almost 7 minute version]
Rosanne Cash [with Jeff Tweedy]
Frizzell was a Grand Ole' Opry star and an ex prize fighter with a fearsome left, hence his nickname. See also: Always Late (With Your Kisses).
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)