Wagoner's Lad
Joan Baez · Beginnings [2012]
She's always controlled, she's always confined
Controlled by her parents until she's a wife
A slave to her husband the rest of her life
Oh, I'm just a poor girl my fortune is sad
I've always been courted by the wagoner's lad
He's courted me daily, by night and by day
But now he is packing and moving away
My parents don't like him because he is poor
They say he's not worthy of entering my door
He works for a living, his money's his own
And if they don't like it they can leave him alone
Your horses are hungry, go feed them some hay
Then sit down beside me as long as you may
My horses ain't hungry, they won't eat your hay
Then fare thee well darlin I'll be on my way
Your wagon needs greasing your whip is to mend
Then sit down beside me as long as you can
My wagon is greasy, my whip's in my hand
Then fare thee well darlin, no longer to stand
Wagoner's Lad
Joan Baez's rendition of 'Wagoner's Lad' stands as a testament to her enduring mastery of traditional folk material. Featured on the compilation Beginnings, this recording captures the artist's signature clarity and emotional resonance, hallmarks that have defined her extensive discography. The song, a staple of the English folk tradition, benefits from Baez's distinctive vocal approach, which balances narrative storytelling with melodic grace. Throughout her career, Baez has revitalized countless songs, ensuring their relevance for new generations of listeners. This particular performance highlights her ability to interpret classic works with both reverence and fresh insight, cementing her status as a pivotal figure in the folk revival. The track remains a compelling example of her commitment to preserving the integrity of the genre while maintaining a deeply personal connection to the material.