Stewball
Joan Baez · Other Songs - Joan Baez
And the mane on his fore top was fine as silk thread
I rode him in England, I rode him in Spain
And I never did lose, boys, I always did gain
So come all you gamblers, wherever you are
And don't bet your money on that little gray mare
Most likely she'll stumble, most likely she'll fall
But never you'll lose, boys, on my noble Stewball
As they were a-riding, 'bout halfway round
That grey mare - she stumbled, and fell on the ground
And way out yonder, ahead of them all
Came a-prancing and a-dancing, my noble Stewball
Stewball was a race horse, and by the day he was mine
He never drank water, he always drank wine
Stewball - Joan Baez
Joan Baez's "Stewball" stands as a poignant testament to her mastery of folk storytelling and social commentary. Recorded during the height of her career as a leading voice in the American folk revival, the track exemplifies her ability to weave personal narrative with broader political themes. The song reflects the era's deep engagement with civil rights and labor struggles, characteristic of Baez's discography which often highlighted marginalized voices. Through her distinctive vocal delivery and acoustic arrangements, Baez transforms the material into an anthem of resilience and solidarity. This recording remains a significant song in her catalog, illustrating her commitment to using music as a tool for advocacy and cultural preservation throughout the 1960s and beyond.