Stewball
Joan Baez · Complete A&m Recordings [2003]
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" appears on her 2003 compilation Complete A&m Recordings, showcasing her enduring commitment to acoustic folk and protest music. The track reflects her signature style, blending social commentary with melodic simplicity that has defined her career since the 1960s. As a central figure in the folk revival, Baez utilized her platform to address civil rights and peace movements, often recording songs that resonated deeply with audiences seeking both artistic integrity and political engagement. This recording continues to represent her legacy as a vocalist who prioritized lyrical honesty and musical clarity over commercial trends, maintaining relevance across generations through her consistent exploration of human dignity and justice.