A Caveat for Cut-Purses - A 17th Century English Broadside Ballad
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- Опубліковано 29 сер 2024
- This song dates from sometime between 1647 - 1665 and would have been sung on the streets of England. It is printed with this opening description.
'With a warning to all purse-carriers: Shewing the confi-dence of the first, and the carelesnesse of the last; With necessary admonitions for
them both, lest the Hangman get the one, and the Begger take the other.'
It warns of the common occurrence of thieves and pickpockets (cut purses) working amongst the unsuspecting crowds gathered to watch musicians and singers. These balladeers were often accused of working with the criminals, and were therefore often seen as less than reputable members of society. However, the ballad is sung from the point if view of the singer, complaining that this is unfair, and not true. He goes on to mention that anywhere there are crowds gathered, there are also pick-pockets, even in the halls of the government in Westminster!
The main refrain warns people not to become a cut-purse, indeed, it would have been better to be 'starved by thy nurse than live to be hanged for cutting a purse!'
This evocative song is known as a 'Broadside Ballad.' The spread of the printing press allowed these songs to be printed on one side of a single sheet of paper at low cost, hence the name 'Broadside.' They were affordable to most people and so became very popular. They were a form of early journalism and the subject matter told of political events and news of the time. They also covered love, religion, legends and drinking songs. These lyrics were set to famous tunes that most people of the time would have known, like Greensleeves for example.
The tune of this song is called 'Packington's Pound,' and is believed to date from the last quarter of the 16th Century. Evidence suggests that it was associated with more ballads than any others by 1700.
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Thank you gentleman for keeping alive this wonderful art.
You’re welcome. It is a pleasure to perform these songs.
What a shame that this song did not even get 1000 views in 9 months.
It is well sung, played and produced, all while trying to preserve our history
At least you have enjoyed it Kai. I thank thee!
Unfortunately good music's been slowly forgotten, day by day...😢
I'm doing a master's in Early Modern History. I've studied Ballards quite a bit. Subbed in the hope you cover more from the English Broadside Ballad Archive.
Thou hast, sure, a wonderfull syngyng voice.
I thank thee greatly!
It puts me in mind of The Hanging Tree, in that it's a catchy tune with lyrics that on paper, oh they already appear to be fairly strong and meaningful, certainly. But once sung... ah, that is when the power of the message *really* begins to show, really captures our attention. Think things through and proceed (at great risk) only if it's truly worth it, because death is no joke, it can't be undone.
Very well put. Thank you!
This goes absolutely crazy
If you say so! 🤣
Brilliant work - I do hope you perform more in future. Here's to hoping for your success!!
Thank you, I’m planning lots more performances!
It sounds great! I cannot wait to see more from you. I’d love to hear Cavalilly Man sung by you.
Thank you! I’ll add it to the list!
wow, the algorithm is sending me wild places this morning. this slaps! alack! for pity! what a droppe!
oh sir, i do go gay sir... verily i do lol
I’m glad my bardship is providing you with enjoyment! Thank thee!
I can hardly wait for more😊
This is absolutely outstanding to listen to, such an incredible voice!
Thank you! More to come soon!
The best that I've ever seen, thank you.
This is just beautiful. I would really appreciate if you would sing us Greensleeves, please. 🙏🏻
Thank you Brenden. Greensleeves is coming soon!
Legend
Thank you Sir Birch of West Yorkshire
Will you be recording more songs? These are really good.
Yes I’m planning a whole series. More videos will be uploaded soon. Thanks for watching.
@@HenryBard Also, do you sell the recordings? Digital or CDs?
This is awesome! I need more videos on youtube please.
Thank you! More songs coming soon.
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Can you sing "I Care Not for These Ladies" by Thomas Campion, or any songs by John Dowland please?
I have some John Dowland coming soon!
Superb!
Thanks Andrew 🙂
Yes!!! 👏👏👏
Thanks!
what a banger!
Thank you Sir Karl!
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Dear Bard, could you be so kind to perform old ballad Lord Gregory by R. Burns (O mirk, mirk is this midnight hour)?
I shall add it to my repertoire!
Sorry Sir, but l won't give you a break 😂 until l see WHAT IF A DAY OR A MONTH OR A YEAR on your channel.😊
Awesome music, voice and interpretation, thank you for posting it here. Wish l could meet you someday.
🙂