I Heard the Bluebirds Sing
Jim Ed Brown and the Browns · The Three Bells [Bear Family] [1993]
Who gave my lonely heart a thrill
Her beauty seemed just like a breath of spring
And when I looked into her eyes
I thought of blue mid summer skies
And when I held her hand in mine
I heard the Bluebirds sing.
They sang of wondering (wondering if you love her)
Will she marry (marry if you ask her)
Will her heart beat (heart beat for him or for)
Them and ever more
And when she's lonely (lonely is he near her)
When there's sadness (sadness will he cheer her)
Will they always (always be together)
Until in death they part.
I courted her for months on end
Until she promised we would be wed
We planned on being married in the spring
All through the long cold winter months
It seemed that spring would never come
And every gloomy winter's day
I heard the Bluebirds sing.
They sang of waiting (waiting for the flowers)
And of counting (counting every hour)
Till the Bluebird (Bluebird brings his welcome)
Into the world once more.
And though we're waiting (waiting for the sunshine)
We keep hating (hating every storm cloud)
That has gathered (gathered on the mountain)
To keep us far apart.
--- Instrumental ---
And when at last spring touched the earth
We were married in the village church
Our wedding seemed just like a dream come true
So many years have come and gone
Our love is still as true and strong
As when I found her long ago
And still the Bluebirds sing.
They sang of loving (loving every hour)
That I'm married (married to my flower)
We'll be happy (happy ever after)
As since the day we met.
And though we're older (older love is sweeter)
We grow fonder (fonder of each other)
We'll be sweethearts (sweethearts close together)
Until the end of time...
About I Heard the Bluebirds Sing
Jim Ed Brown and the Browns deliver a spirited gospel and blues fusion on "I Heard the Bluebirds Sing," a track that showcases the group's signature blend of spiritual fervor and rhythmic drive. Recorded for their 1993 Bear Family reissue, *The Three Bells*, the song reflects the enduring appeal of Brown's ability to merge traditional church music with secular blues sensibilities. The recording captures the raw energy of live performance, characteristic of the artists' work during the mid-20th century, where gospel roots often intertwined with country and blues influences. This piece stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of the Browns, featuring harmonies that elevate the narrative of the title. While the lyrics evoke imagery of nature and faith, the musical arrangement focuses on driving rhythms and melodic vocal lines that have made this recording a staple in collections of American gospel and blues. It remains a vibrant example of the genre's ability to transcend religious boundaries, offering a timeless auditory experience that honors the legacy of Jim Ed Brown's musical contributions.