John Riley
Joan Baez · Other Songs - Joan Baez
Fair young maid all in a garden
Strange young man, passerby
He said, "Fair maid, will you marry me?"
This then, sir, was her reply:
Oh, no, kind sir, I cannot marry thee
For I've a love who sails all on the sea.
He's been gone for seven years
Still no man shall marry me
What if he's in some battle slain
Or drowned (sic) in the deep salt sea
What if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be?
Well, if he's in some battle slain
I will go and mourn all on his grave
And if he's drowned in the deep salt sea
I'll be true to his memory
And if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be
I'll wish them health and happiness
Where they dwell across the sea
He picked her up all in his arms
Kisses gave her, One, two, three
Said, Here am I, my own true love
I am your long-lost John Riley!
Strange young man, passerby
He said, "Fair maid, will you marry me?"
This then, sir, was her reply:
Oh, no, kind sir, I cannot marry thee
For I've a love who sails all on the sea.
He's been gone for seven years
Still no man shall marry me
What if he's in some battle slain
Or drowned (sic) in the deep salt sea
What if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be?
Well, if he's in some battle slain
I will go and mourn all on his grave
And if he's drowned in the deep salt sea
I'll be true to his memory
And if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be
I'll wish them health and happiness
Where they dwell across the sea
He picked her up all in his arms
Kisses gave her, One, two, three
Said, Here am I, my own true love
I am your long-lost John Riley!
John Riley
Joan Baez's "John Riley" stands as a poignant testament to her commitment to social justice and folk storytelling. Recorded during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, the song reflects the era's urgent call for equality and dignity. Baez, a central figure in the American folk revival, often wove political themes into her acoustic guitar-driven compositions, giving voice to marginalized communities. This recording exemplifies her ability to blend traditional folk structures with contemporary protest themes, creating a timeless appeal that resonates across generations. The track remains a significant piece in her discography, illustrating her role as an advocate for human rights through music.