A Man Of Constant Sorrow
The Stanley Brothers · Other Songs - The Stanley Brothers
I've seen trouble all my days
I bid farewell to old Kentucky
The place where I was born and raised
For six long years I've been in trouble
No pleasure here on earth I find
For in this world I'm bound to ramble
I have no friends to help me now
It's fare thee well my own true lover
I never expect to see you again
For I'm bound to ride that Northern railroad
Perhaps I'll die upon this train
You can bury me in some deep valley
For many years where I may lay
Then you may learn to love another
While I am sleeping in my grave
It's fare you well to a native country
The places I have loved so well
For I have seen all kinds of trouble
In this cruel world no tongue can tell
Maybe your friends think I'm a stranger
My face your'll never see no more
But there is one promise that is given
I'll meet you on God's golden shore
A Man Of Constant Sorrow
The Stanley Brothers delivered a definitive version of 'A Man Of Constant Sorrow,' cementing their status as pillars of traditional bluegrass. Recorded during the height of their career, the track showcases Carter Stanley's distinctive high tenor and Ralph Stanley's raw, emotive harmonies. The song serves as a quintessential example of the genre's storytelling tradition, exploring themes of hardship and resilience through a driving rhythm and intricate instrumental work. While the composition has become a standard across the bluegrass canon, the Stanley Brothers' interpretation remains a benchmark for vocal clarity and emotional depth. This recording highlights their ability to elevate familiar material into a powerful statement of their unique musical identity, contributing significantly to the enduring legacy of their discography.