East Virginia
Joan Baez · Beginnings [2012]
North Carolina I did roam,
There I met a fair pretty maiden,
Her name and age I do not know.
Her hair of a brightsome color,
And her lips of ruby red,
On her breast she wore white lilies,
There I long to lay my head.
Well in my heart you are my darling,
At my door you're welcome in,
At my gate I'll meet you my darling,
If your love I could only win.
I'd rather be in some dark holler,
Where the sun refuse to shine,
Then to see you be another man's darling,
And to know that you never be mine.
Well in the night I'm dreaming of you,
In my day I find no rest,
Just the thought of you my darling,
Send's aching pains all through breast.
Well when I'm dead and in my coffin
If my feet turn toward the sun,
Come and sit beside me darling,
Come and think on the way you've done.
East Virginia
Joan Baez's rendition of "East Virginia" stands as a poignant example of her mastery within the folk tradition. The song captures the stark realities of rural life, reflecting Baez's long-standing commitment to social commentary and narrative storytelling. Her clear, resonant vocals elevate the material, transforming a regional tale into a universal meditation on hardship and resilience. This recording highlights her ability to interpret traditional material with fresh emotional depth, a hallmark of her extensive discography. As part of her broader body of work, the track demonstrates how Baez has consistently used her platform to amplify voices from the American South. The performance remains a testament to her enduring influence on folk music, showcasing her skill in balancing delicate phrasing with powerful delivery.