Old Joe Clark [Joe Clarke] [Ole Joe Clark]
Pete Seeger · Other Songs - Pete Seeger
Fare thee well I say
Fare thee well Old Joe Clark
I'm bound go go away
I will not go to Old Joe's house
I'll tell ya the reason why
Every floor in Old Joes's house
Is filled with chicken pie
Old Joe Clark he did take sick
And what do ya think ailed him?
He drank a churn of butter milk
And then his stomach failed him
I will not marry an old maid
And I'll tell ya the reason why
Her neck's so long and stringy boys
I'm afraid she'll never die
Old Joe Clark he did get drunk
And he sat down to his supper
He leaned over at the dinner table
And stoved his nose in the butter
Old Joe Clark
Pete Seeger's rendition of "Old Joe Clark" captures the enduring spirit of American folk music. This traditional song, with roots stretching back to the early 20th century, tells the story of a man who leaves his wife to find adventure, only to return home. Seeger, a towering figure in the folk revival, brought this narrative to life with his signature banjo accompaniment and clear, resonant voice. His interpretation highlights the song's rhythmic drive and storytelling tradition, making it a staple in his live performances and recordings. The track exemplifies Seeger's ability to preserve and revitalize folk material, connecting audiences to a shared cultural heritage through simple yet powerful musical expression.