Long Black Veil
Joan Baez · Other Songs - Joan Baez
Someone was killed Ã?â??Ã?â??neath the Town Hall light
The people who saw they all agreed
That the slayer who ran looked a lot like me.
The judge said, Ã?â??Ã?â??son, what is your alibi?
If you were somewheres else,
Then you won't have to dieÃ?â??Ã?â??.
I spoke not a word, though it meant my life,
For I'd been in the arms of my best friend's wife.
She walks these hills in a long black veil,
Visits my grave when the night winds wail,
Nobody knows, nobody sees,
Nobody knows, but me.
The scaffold is high, eternity near,
She stands in the crowd, she sheds not a tear,
But sometimes at night, when the cold winds moan,
In a long black veil she cries o'er my bones.
She walks these hills in a long black veil,
Visits my grave when the night winds wail,
Nobody knows, nobody sees,
Nobody knows, but me.
Long Black Veal
Joan Baez's "Long Black Veil" stands as a poignant testament to her mastery of folk storytelling and social commentary. Recorded during a pivotal era for the genre, the track exemplifies Baez's ability to weave personal narrative with broader cultural themes, characteristic of her extensive discography. The song reflects the acoustic intimacy and lyrical depth that defined her career, often exploring themes of mystery, loss, and the human condition through simple yet powerful arrangements. As a key work in her catalog, it demonstrates her influence on the folk revival, utilizing traditional structures to deliver messages that resonated deeply with audiences seeking authentic expression. The recording captures the essence of her artistry, blending raw emotion with a melodic sensibility that remains relevant in discussions of classic American folk music.