I love the Kingston Trio dearly. I'm 25 years old and also a Brit, have loved them for years on end. Not only the original Trio but every roster to date have brought something new while keeping it awfully familiar. When I turned 18 the Trio at the time (Bill Zorn, Rick Dougherty and George Grove) send me a video wishing me happy birthday and singing me that birthday song they love to sing to people. George had been with the Trio since the 1980s so he was a long time member and I was a big fan of his playing and singing. I also have a picture of them that's signed which is also pretty sweet. Bob Shane (the one in the middle singing the majority of the song) may he rest in peace, and his wife Bobbi also sent me George Grove's banjo DVD as a gift when I bought a simple decorative pin for a couple pounds. I used to post covers of Trio songs on UA-cam playing all the parts (after learning the banjo of course!) and singing them too. They would comment on them and encourage me. They're all really nice people and I appreciate them immensly. All of them. I've had a few regular emails with Rick Dougherty who was in the previous Trio roster, he told be about the new band he had formed with George Grove and how he wanted to send me a copy of their new album. They're called The Folk Legacy Trio, I highly reccommend to any Kingston Trio fans.
My father died on Friday. I was starting to go through some of his things today and came across an album by The Kingston Trio. I remember hearing Tom Tooley from the album. Perfect timing Fil for stirring up good memories of my dad.
Strangely enough my dad as a jazz musician hated almost all forms of other genre. But Dad loved folk music, bought and played it often at home. He had all the Kingston Trio, the Seekers, and even the Smothers Brothers music. So, I know all of these songs and still have their music to this day. Thanks Fil.
My dad was a jazz guy too, turned me on to Louis, Benny, Anita, Gene, Lionel, and all the big bands, plus guys like Roland Kirk and Monk of all people. He also had a bunch of "Folkie" albums including "Country" and played them regularly. Needless to say, I'm not too much of a musical snob, I hope. Lol, I have turned turned into an equal opportunity, musical idiom basher, and grizzled old bastard to boot.
Mee too, except I lost " Gretsch Drum Night At Birdland (1060)" and so many others. i deserved to inherit them all, over and above non jazz aficionado relatives, as such. Still looking to replace it, Art Blakey, Joe Jones, Philly Joe Jones, and Charlie Persip. "Wee Dot" is the killer bop tune, learn that one and you are officially "Bop" qualified, imho. of course.
I can see you are a big fan like the rest of us. Thank you for the background bio information about the pivotal history of the Kingston Trio. I love it.🙏💕
I just turned 66 years young and even though these guys were a little before my time, I was thrilled when I finally discovered them. I love "Worried Man", "MTA", " Greenback Dollar", and of course "Tom Dooley". Good music is good music; life's too short to argue about it.
GT Steele...Oh yea, I had forgotten about Worried Man....I can hear it in my mind as I type and I remember the melody and most of the words...wow...that brings back a lot of memories.
@@marbleman52 You got me thinking too........I remember how popular Tom Dooley was when I heard a comic on one of those early sixties variety shows sing "Hang down your head Tom Dooley, your tie's caught in your fly". Not sure I completely got it then, but my mother was hysterical.
This was so popular when I was a child--I remember singing it! The Kingston Trio was one of my favorites from that time period. Thanks for analysing this, Fil!
I am thrilled that you covered this group and the song in the history I grew up in the late 50s. From the late 50s on. I learn so much by watching your videos.
Hi Fil !!!! OMG!!!!!! 1959, Brookland Arkansas, a house in the middle of a cotton field, sitting on the edge of the bed one summer night, my stepdad taught me to sing Tom Dooly! The man did have some patience. I can still hear him playing that old Gibson Jumbo. Thank you so much for making me feel five years old again Fil.
David Cantwell.... I was born in Memphis in '52 and was raised in Keiser and Osceola until about 1964 when we moved to Batesville. My Dad grew cotton and wheat on about 200 acres outside of Keiser. I remember vividly seeing the houses like yours....no yard...maybe a tiny bit in the back for a clothesline, and cotton growing up within a few feet of the house. What are some of your memories of those times?
@@marbleman52 Not much. That same year we picked up and moved to West Texas where there was work in the oilfield but mainly because of my mother's asthma. I've been in Texas ever since. Ma's folks along with my daddy's we're all from the Ozarks around Norfork.
@@davidcantwell2489 My mother was born and raised in Keiser; which is near West Memphis, with all that flat-land and reclaimed swamps and pollen and allergies. She also developed asthma; most likely from living in those conditions, and then she developed bronchial breathing problems later. She always had an inhaler in her purse. By the time medicine had advanced to where her breathing problems could be properly dealt with, the damage had already been done. The sad thing is that she had a fantastic voice; when she was at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, she had majored in voice and had even been asked by the New York Metropolitan Opera to come and audition. She chose instead to get married and settle down and raise a family, and this is why I can be typing this..LOL..!! She died at only 44 years "young" of a massive coronary; just one week before Christmas, in 1972. The autopsy revealed that her heart had been worn out from dealing with the breathing problems and the doctor said that her heart looked like the heart of a very old man. Needless to say, it wasn't until 7 years later when my first child was born that I could enjoy Christmas again. Anyway....I love Lake Norfork...it is such a beautiful and clear lake !! One Spring, a few years ago, I and my son rented one of those simple aluminum fishing boats and went fishing, but it was in the middle of spawning time and they were just not biting. But the water was the clearest I had ever seen it. I swear that we could see down 15 feet, probably more, and it was crystal clear...amazing..!!
The Kingston Trio, The Brothers Four, Peter, Paul and Mary, Serendipity Singers, The Limeliters, and the rest from that era had great harmony. great analysis and rundown on the guys great footage too. keep Rockin' through the history of music Fil.
Pete Seeger wrote "Where Have All the Flowers Gone". IMO every folk band who ever did well in the 1950s and 60s is because of him. Not just because of that song, but because of his overall influence on the modern folk music of the time.
I was a serious Kingston Trio fan. They were extremely entertaining. Their vocal work was very professional. They were the reason I started playing guitar. Thank you.
Loved them since I was just little, they were SO funny between songs as well as having awesome harmony and great musical chops. I'm glad you mentioned how they crossed a lot of genre boundaries, because the variety of songs on those first several albums gave us kids a taste of everything!
I was 4 years old in 1958, and I remember sooooooooooooo much of the music from then. Love these guys! BTW, Bob Shane was the last surviving original member, and he *just* passed away on January 26, 2020 ... "He died on January 26, 2020 at a hospice facility in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 85." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Shane
I knew Frank Warber he managed the Kingston Trio. He owned Trident Records in Marin County California. My dad designed Trident Studios. So I grew up listening to the Kingston Trio. I think they were a great musical influence. Frank also owned the Trident restaurant and Nightclub. Frank hired a guy named Carlos Santana. Carlos taught me how to roll the seeds out of marijuana in a cigar box when I was nine. The Kingston Trio was a great band. Great performers and great entertainers. Folk rock.
@Nikki Huffman No it was really innocent. It was more like what he happened to be doing. We were sitting on these two bar stools next to this little round cocktail table, alongside a duffel bag full of Mexican ragweed. I don't even think I really knew what marijuana was. Frank and Carlos were out of rolling papers, so Frank had Carlos stuff it in a tampon wrapper. I didn't even know what a tampon was, let alone where it would go. I've always thought tampons you were pretty clever though. They know where they're headed before they leave the factory. Carlos was also showing me the artwork on the cover of Abraxas. Which I appreciate even more as I got older. I saw him in 2000 at his studio in San Rafael. It was right after his success with Supernatural. He said he'd probably have to get high to remember it. Life is funny.
@@redwoods7370 Yeah I was born in Marin General. Lived at 385 Marine Avenue in Mill Valley California. Learned to swim at Tam High School. Spent a lot of time between Stinson Beach and Bolinas. Spent a lot of time in Tiburon. Worked in Strawberry, I work in San Rafael for Ghilotti Brothers, Mario and Dino. My father was an architect in Sausalito at 3030 Bridgeway. He did the Trident, Trident Records, Houlihan's, and the Record Plant. Over 200 homes in the Bay Area, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and New Zealand. Lots of memories.
My Dad (born in 1951) absolutely loves the Kingston Trio. They are his favorite band of all time (followed closely by The Beatles). I grew up listening to The Trio and my kids now listen to and enjoy their music. I especially appreciate the harmonies and often sing along with the music. Thanks for this! 🎶
My dad used to sing this song to me when I was a boy of 5 or 6. That was almost 60 years ago. You brought back some sweet memories. I see from the other replies that you have a lot old geezer fans, Fil.
The thing about Fil is that his insight and personality speaks to all ages and sexes. You are never too old to learn and definitely not too old to be entertained. Another geezer here.
Fil, I love you for analyzing this video. The Kingston Trio was part of the music of my childhood. This is a song I can hear in full, in the jukebox of memory.
1960 in San Francisco, 2 friends of mine - Kirk Roberts & Alex Nisperos - we’re so enthused with The Kingston Trio albums that Kirk had...we formed a Folksinging Trio of our own, named The Bucket Three (gut bucket for a bass). We entertained around the campfires @ our Troop 15 Boy Scout Summer Camps. In early 1966, Alex joined the Navy...and Bob Visini joined our group, in time for The Bucket Three appearance on The Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour! I am so thankful for The Kingston Trio’s recordings & performances that has served as inspiration & happiness for so many people.
My parents had them on vinyl. I must have listened to this song 1000 times. Thanks for covering them. Another song we sing in Canada that’s based on a true tale is Sam Hall.
Hi Fil! I was 12 yrs old when my sisters were playing this music! I loved it! I was at the beginning of my love for all kinds of music! Elvis had been introduced to me, and then this group was also one I found myself enjoying! I remember when they sang the song about never returning...MTA..it was just funny! The 50s had so many cool folk songs! Then came Smother’s Brothers, and soon Peter, Paul and Mary! Loved that era...I became so eclectic with my music! Rock and Roll one minute, and folk music the next! So glad I never got stuck on just one sound! You sure have an appreciation for the music that was my world! Thank you for doing the old songs...they were special! ✌️
P,P and M are my all-time favorite musicians. I had to stop listening to them for a very long time after Mary passed. I'm just gradually feeling like I can listen again without feeling overwhelmingly sad. I love all the other folkies you mentioned as well.
New Mom I remember when my daughter was in college, and one day I mentioned Peter Paul and Mary...she squealed with delight, and informed me she loved them too...a huge bonding moment and of course we went to their concerts together after that...good memories! Thanks for sharing too! Isn’t it fun coming here, and meeting like minded people! Hugs!
My dad was mad keen about these guys. I grew up listening to them, Guthrie, Seeger and Dylan. I think this was the first song I ever learned on my ukulele (I was about 4). Thanks Fil. You keep reminding me of so much of my childhood.
Your video is marvelous; you are to be commended on your thoroughly artful analysis and recitation of the Kingston Trio. I was going through high school from 1960 to 1964 and these three were the mainstay of mine and my friends' entertainment. (Nick Reynolds and Bob Shane went to Menlo College which was the adjunct of Menlo School, the boys' boarding school where I attended. Dave Guard attended Menlo School for his senior year and then went to Stanford.) I had the tremendous thrill of making my escape from that joint several times during my "sentence" there to go to San Francisco and see the Kingston Trio. Once escorted by my mother and stepfather into the _Hungry I_ and once taken by my father to see -- get this -- George Shearing and Peggy Lee AND the Kingston Trio all on the same program. Your relation of their history and place in the "folk craze" of the late 50s and early 60s was dead on accurate and I am sincerely glad their memory is in your hands! Sincerely, thank you.
The Reverend Mr Black😉, Charlie on the MBTA 😅, Scotch & Soda🥤, Greenback dollar 💵, The Tijuana Jail 🍻🍺🍺, More Greats for the Kingston Trio, Fil . Oh, and Where have all the flowers gone? 💐. Thanks Fil, for this analysis on the Kingston Trio.
Interesting. I would also note the arrangement when guys are all singing different things at the same time. That was very important to keep such a simple song interesting to listen to. Thanks for the educational throwback to that time before the folk music turned more topical.
I’m my goodness Fil you are trawling my memory banks now. Still know all the words and I was only 3 years old. One of my older brothers like this kind of music and went so well with the saturation of tv westerns of. the time. Still love tv westerns from the 1959 onwards.
Golly that's a blast from the past and lovely to have it analysed, thanks Fil. I remember we sang Tom Dooley and Where Have All The Flowers Gone in Grade 7 singing class at school (1971). My teacher liked folk music. I remember also singing Puff the Magic Dragon and Morning Town Ride.
My parents turned myself and my siblings on to The Kingston Trio when I was a kid.. My favorite song they do is, Scotch and Soda. The Merry Minuet is awesome, too! I absolutely love this trio.
John Martin I don’t think that it’s that they don’t understand but that they never heard of it and have their own music. They are as interested in listening to their grandparents music as we are of theirs
Cindy Van Camp Love them, too! My eldest sister bought their albums back in the day and we all learned their songs as kids. They inspired me to pick up guitar as a teenager and play. Their music was so good and covered many genres.
Thanks for this, Fil. Another great job. Tom Dula was tried and hanged in the town where I live; he couldn't get an unbiased jury in Wilkes County where the murder occurred. When I taught middle school, I'd have my 8th graders make makeshift banjos from pie plates, elastic bands, and paint stir sticks and we'd sing and play it around the school after exams. They loved it. The KT had fabulous harmonies and good sense of humor (e.g. "Merry Minuet" and "MTA).
I have to give Fil my heartfelt thanks and admiration for doing such an absolutely remarkable job of capturing all of the nuances and turns in the road the Kingston Trio took to get started and reach the national acclaim they eventually received. He also covered with incredibly accurate detail the Trio's eventual decline in the music industry, beginning with their acrimonious breakup in 1961, their rejection by the traditional folk community because of their commercial appeal and their choice to remain apolitical during the Folk Era of the '60s, and their inability to remain relevant following the British Invasion. Even during the height of their popularity, The Kingston Trio would have been the first to admit they were hardly the best musicians instrumentally and vocally compared to many of their peers, but they were extraordinary entertainers and were successful in bringing folk music to the attention of a wide audience across all domains of American society. The scope of their influence on other musicians, both amateurs and professionals, is immeasurable. Over time, I have had the opportunity to meet and spend time with the members of every configuration of the Kingston Trio from the Dave Guard years through to the Grove/Zorn/Dougherty ensemble that last played in 2018. (I was even fortunate enough to play Bob Shane's guitar and sing a solo number for him and his New Kingston Trio bandmates, Jim Connors and Pat Horine, after a concert in 1970). So I feel I can say with some authority that Fil's research and presentation touched all the bases in telling the Kingston Trio story. I am deeply impressed and most grateful for his wonderful efforts.
I was 6 years old in 1958 , here in Arkansas, and it seems that I have known that song since then. I sang along with them on this video and sang in tune and beat and only missed a few words. I enjoyed this...thanks, Fil..!!
Loved all of their music. It was so funny to watch them doing their routine every week. The blonde one was my favourite. I like the songs " My Old Man & the song that talked about how whenever people are whispering they were saying bad words❤❤❤❤
I like their syncopated singing each taking a lead at some point even if short, they each take turns going in and out of backing vocals. It kept it interesting.
Although I respect the right of the people giving a thumbs down I wonder why they do it . These videos aren't about whether we like the genre, they are a teaching tool done in an interesting and entertaining way. OfCourse that is merely my opinion. I may be wrong.
Well done Fil, in describing the early days and eventual success of my all time favorite band, who inspired me and millions of other HS and college kids to pick up and learn the banjo and guitar. I still listen to them, and include a number of their old standbys in the repertoire of our grey-head folk group.
Fil, I want to applaud you for bringing all these diverse artists back to us all and exposing at least a couple of generations to a whole new experience, from what they have grown to call music. One of the things I take note of is the instruments being played, how they sound in the mix, there brand, and are they still around today. LP’s Tele’s and Strat’s , saw a lot of competition back in the day.
Music lover here, appreciate your understanding of music and the artists over the years, your research and analyses. Enjoy you watching and thinking about the videos you are commenting on.
Thanks for doing this, Fil. I certainly remember this song but I was sure you were going to say Pete Seeger wrote it. I always learn so much watching you.
Love folk music. Such wonderful stories and musicians. My all time favorite though, without doubt, is Peter, Paul and Mary. I've got their first album and just about wore it out when I was a teenager..… in the 80's!
This is the beginning of what Utah Phillips called "The Great Folk Scare" .One of those guitars is a four string tenor guitar- an instrument invented in the 1920s which allowed a tenor banjo player to get a guitar sound as the guitar was becoming the dominant string instrument. After the great folk scare ended, the tenor guitar disappeared from sight but it is back again. The film "A Mighty Wind" from the Spinal Tap folk is a mockumentary about a reunion of folk musicians.
You must have really felt this wonderful song and trio Fil, I haven't seen all your videos but so far I haven't seen you nodding your head to music before 💎
Always love your analysis videos, Fil! Please do The Highwaymen singing "Michael Rowed the Boat Ashore." Theirs is far and away the best version ever. Thanks!
Thank you so much for going over my old beloved group, the KT. Although I never had all their records, I had most of them and I still play their songs. I’ve never heard a banjo sound like Dave Guard and John Stewart, most sound tinny. That song was unusual in that DG was not playing the banjo. He played the difficult 5-string, Bob played the 4-string in that one. I also loved their Martin guitar sound and always wanted one. I had to settle for a Gibson. I formed a similar-themed folk group but with insufficient talent to succeed. Playing guitar and singing was my passion but alas, the fingers grow stiff with age. 👍🏻
I saw the KT IN 72 only Bob the original-at Blytheville Air Force Base, Arkansas in 1972. We walked out of there after the show and Bob was sitting just outside the door with his band mates drinking Cold Duc-Had a good chat with him and got his autograph--It was an honor to meet him. Bob Shane was the first Elvis tribute artist
PS-I again saw the KT (bob with others) in S CA: 87--Folk singers show Some good artist-During the show John Stewart did a solo act--wonderful-and the grand finalie all the artists playing and Nick Remolds came out playing a stand up base-I was floored seeing almost all them together
My music teacher taught our class this song when I was little, along with other songs whose lyrics spoke of death, murder, disease, etc. Seems a bit odd now. But didn't give it a second thought at the time.
I always thought this group was an imprint just by itself, in style and harmony. Mainly they were so wildly rounded crafted in a variety of styles: Clip-so, Jazz, banjo wailing, and such sting, with purpose in many of their very slow heart thumping ballads. Such as "Take Her out of Pity" leaves one wrenching in the after thought. Truly a great job on the Subject here Fil.
Tom Dooley was hung about 3 hours as the crow flies from where I live in Carter County, TN. I think that it was in Avery County, NC along the border of Johnson County, TN (where Dave Loggins is from). 👍👍
I can't believe you are doing this song. I have just been listening to the Kingston Trio the last few months. I was ten years old when this came out and I remember me and my buddies could actually sing it. I think the idea of it being about a gruesome subject was appealing and not that lovey-dovey stuff.
I remember my dad making his own stereo record player back in the late 1950's and buying sampler recotds. One had MTA and Tom Dooley on it and we just loved MTA. Greenback Dollar was a favorite of President Kennedy.
I remember my brothers played the Kingston Trio, they have lots of uplifting songs too. I think that the difference then was that there was a lot of peace in the world, and justice was brought about when there was crime. It’s a very sad song, but I remember it did not get me down like it feels now. It seems like they show a little love to this man who was condemned to die.
At last! This is long overdue Fil: this trio were not only innovative and competent, but terrific live performers. I cannot think how many newer songs pinched the melody of “Greenback Dollar,” but I reckon it must be, well, over thirty: even “Move it on Up” by M People is unashamed! I must make a list! This single, I remember, was recorded in 3 hours! The B-side, “This is the new frontier,” was such a strange song that a very young me had to work hard to get the chords: my primitive piano playing - I cannot read even a note of music despite having played in a prog band for three years - made it possible to learn it. Brian May’s “In the year of (45?)” from Queen lifts it, as do many others, including the Incredible String Band, who were great fans - “In the golden gate of the golden name...” my memory is so rusty. I’m so glad that someone remembers these very fine people. Now: Dave Dee etc or It Bites, Yellow Christian, live in Japan! Frankie will be delighted!!😃best Tom T
Thanks for calling attention to these guys Phil! My favorite pre-Beatles vocal group! As a young kid I used to imagine myself serenading a girl on a park bench with their song "Scotch & Soda".
Ha! I was 7 and I remember this was a hit. One of the first songs I used to sing..lol. Pretty easy lyrics... Thumbsup Fil.. Michael Landon was in a movie about this.
Thank you so very much for this excellent vid! I've read that the song was actually written by the condemned man himself while awaiting his execution! His name was Tom Dula. The Trio was a phenomenon in the entertainment business. At their peak, they were producing 15-18% of Capitol's income. Thanks, again!
Little Tennessee girl born in 1960. My dad raised us on The Kingston Trio. Woke up to it and went to bed to it. True authentic folk music.
I love the Kingston Trio dearly. I'm 25 years old and also a Brit, have loved them for years on end. Not only the original Trio but every roster to date have brought something new while keeping it awfully familiar. When I turned 18 the Trio at the time (Bill Zorn, Rick Dougherty and George Grove) send me a video wishing me happy birthday and singing me that birthday song they love to sing to people. George had been with the Trio since the 1980s so he was a long time member and I was a big fan of his playing and singing. I also have a picture of them that's signed which is also pretty sweet.
Bob Shane (the one in the middle singing the majority of the song) may he rest in peace, and his wife Bobbi also sent me George Grove's banjo DVD as a gift when I bought a simple decorative pin for a couple pounds. I used to post covers of Trio songs on UA-cam playing all the parts (after learning the banjo of course!) and singing them too. They would comment on them and encourage me. They're all really nice people and I appreciate them immensly. All of them. I've had a few regular emails with Rick Dougherty who was in the previous Trio roster, he told be about the new band he had formed with George Grove and how he wanted to send me a copy of their new album. They're called The Folk Legacy Trio, I highly reccommend to any Kingston Trio fans.
My father died on Friday. I was starting to go through some of his things today and came across an album by The Kingston Trio. I remember hearing Tom Tooley from the album. Perfect timing Fil for stirring up good memories of my dad.
So sorry for the loss of your Loved one.❤
Condolences. It’s strange, and comforting, how music can be one of the strongest “ties that bind” to loved ones, especially in the loss of them.
Dan Jennings My heart hurts for you...thank you for sharing...a very special moment!
Dan Jennings , my condolences to you and yours.
Condolences Dan Jennings.
Strangely enough my dad as a jazz musician hated almost all forms of other genre. But Dad loved folk music, bought and played it often at home. He had all the Kingston Trio, the Seekers, and even the Smothers Brothers music. So, I know all of these songs and still have their music to this day. Thanks Fil.
Yes love the Smothers Brothers, too! Recently went searching for vintage content on UA-cam and it did not disappoint.
My dad was a jazz guy too, turned me on to Louis, Benny, Anita, Gene, Lionel, and all the big bands, plus guys like Roland Kirk and Monk of all people.
He also had a bunch of "Folkie" albums including "Country" and played them regularly.
Needless to say, I'm not too much of a musical snob, I hope.
Lol, I have turned turned into an equal opportunity, musical idiom basher, and grizzled old bastard to boot.
@@Seeker0fTruth ; Nah, they were a comedy team that sang folk songs, and that's a completely different animal.
Mee too, except I lost " Gretsch Drum Night At Birdland (1060)" and so many others.
i deserved to inherit them all, over and above non jazz aficionado relatives, as such.
Still looking to replace it, Art Blakey, Joe Jones, Philly Joe Jones, and Charlie Persip.
"Wee Dot" is the killer bop tune, learn that one and you are officially "Bop" qualified, imho. of course.
I can see you are a big fan like the rest of us. Thank you for the background bio information about the pivotal history of the Kingston Trio. I love it.🙏💕
I just turned 66 years young and even though these guys were a little before my time, I was thrilled when I finally discovered them. I love "Worried Man", "MTA", " Greenback Dollar", and of course "Tom Dooley". Good music is good music; life's too short to argue about it.
GT Steele...Oh yea, I had forgotten about Worried Man....I can hear it in my mind as I type and I remember the melody and most of the words...wow...that brings back a lot of memories.
@@marbleman52 You got me thinking too........I remember how popular Tom Dooley was when I heard a comic on one of those early sixties variety shows sing "Hang down your head Tom Dooley, your tie's caught in your fly". Not sure I completely got it then, but my mother was hysterical.
And then they did The Streets of Laredo in the most serious way, that one still makes me laugh.
Yep, the MTA...
They really put out a good and unusual Christmas LP too.
This was so popular when I was a child--I remember singing it! The Kingston Trio was one of my favorites from that time period. Thanks for analysing this, Fil!
I am thrilled that you covered this group and the song in the history I grew up in the late 50s. From the late 50s on. I learn so much by watching your videos.
Cool!
Another great video and commentary Fil. I love these little behind the scene documentaries.
Hi Fil !!!!
OMG!!!!!! 1959, Brookland Arkansas, a house in the middle of a cotton field, sitting on the edge of the bed one summer night, my stepdad taught me to sing Tom Dooly! The man did have some patience. I can still hear him playing that old Gibson Jumbo.
Thank you so much for making me feel five years old again Fil.
David Cantwell.... I was born in Memphis in '52 and was raised in Keiser and Osceola until about 1964 when we moved to Batesville. My Dad grew cotton and wheat on about 200 acres outside of Keiser. I remember vividly seeing the houses like yours....no yard...maybe a tiny bit in the back for a clothesline, and cotton growing up within a few feet of the house. What are some of your memories of those times?
@@marbleman52
Not much. That same year we picked up and moved to West Texas where there was work in the oilfield but mainly because of my mother's asthma. I've been in Texas ever since. Ma's folks along with my daddy's we're all from the Ozarks around Norfork.
@@davidcantwell2489 My mother was born and raised in Keiser; which is near West Memphis, with all that flat-land and reclaimed swamps and pollen and allergies. She also developed asthma; most likely from living in those conditions, and then she developed bronchial breathing problems later. She always had an inhaler in her purse. By the time medicine had advanced to where her breathing problems could be properly dealt with, the damage had already been done. The sad thing is that she had a fantastic voice; when she was at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, she had majored in voice and had even been asked by the New York Metropolitan Opera to come and audition. She chose instead to get married and settle down and raise a family, and this is why I can be typing this..LOL..!! She died at only 44 years "young" of a massive coronary; just one week before Christmas, in 1972. The autopsy revealed that her heart had been worn out from dealing with the breathing problems and the doctor said that her heart looked like the heart of a very old man. Needless to say, it wasn't until 7 years later when my first child was born that I could enjoy Christmas again. Anyway....I love Lake Norfork...it is such a beautiful and clear lake !! One Spring, a few years ago, I and my son rented one of those simple aluminum fishing boats and went fishing, but it was in the middle of spawning time and they were just not biting. But the water was the clearest I had ever seen it. I swear that we could see down 15 feet, probably more, and it was crystal clear...amazing..!!
marbleman52 Do you mean Lake Norfork in northern Arkansas in Baxter County? If so, I’ve been to that lake!
@@marykuranda7254 Yes...that's it....beautiful country and a gorgeous lake..!!
Charlie On The MTA! My childhood had the Kingston Trio, the Chad Mitchell Trio played on repeat!
I stumbled upon this the other day…the conclusion to Charlie’s ride on the MTA: ua-cam.com/video/GCA0tM8gG8E/v-deo.html
I thought I had collected and read everything on the Kingston Trio, but your knowledge of this Group is astounding!
Always learning something new listening to Wings of Pegasus his description is so precise, such a talent!
The Kingston Trio, The Brothers Four, Peter, Paul and Mary, Serendipity Singers, The Limeliters, and the rest from that era had great harmony. great analysis and rundown on the guys great footage too. keep Rockin' through the history of music Fil.
One might also add The Highwaymen (not the later supergroup), who had a hit with "Michael Row the Boat Ashore", followed by "The Whistling Gypsy".
Pete Seeger wrote "Where Have All the Flowers Gone". IMO every folk band who ever did well in the 1950s and 60s is because of him. Not just because of that song, but because of his overall influence on the modern folk music of the time.
@@primroseburrows Yes, and I think he was a communist...
Simply the best up till Dave left the group. After John Stewart joined they were more commercial, but still wonderful.
I saw Peter, Paul and Mary around 1964 in Jonesboro Arkansas also the 4 preps
The 3 way harmonies are excellent in this performance, perfect folk trio, love it!!!! thanks Mr. Fil...
I was a serious Kingston Trio fan. They were extremely entertaining. Their vocal work was very professional. They were the reason I started playing guitar. Thank you.
I have All their vinyl albums!
Congratulations on 117k subscribers!! :)
Thanks!
Loved them since I was just little, they were SO funny between songs as well as having awesome harmony and great musical chops. I'm glad you mentioned how they crossed a lot of genre boundaries, because the variety of songs on those first several albums gave us kids a taste of everything!
I was 4 years old in 1958, and I remember sooooooooooooo much of the music from then. Love these guys! BTW, Bob Shane was the last surviving original member, and he *just* passed away on January 26, 2020 ... "He died on January 26, 2020 at a hospice facility in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 85." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Shane
I hadn't heard about Shane, had been wondering about it. Tremendously saddened.
One of the 1st songs I ever learned to sing -I preformed this on stage when I was 9!!! Love this!!! Thank you!!!
The Kingston Trio are why I became a singer and songwriter. And made my living at it all my life
I have always liked this Folk music band..very soothing music...thanks Fil
I knew Frank Warber he managed the Kingston Trio. He owned Trident Records in Marin County California. My dad designed Trident Studios. So I grew up listening to the Kingston Trio.
I think they were a great musical influence. Frank also owned the Trident restaurant and Nightclub.
Frank hired a guy named Carlos Santana. Carlos taught me how to roll the seeds out of marijuana in a cigar box when I was nine. The Kingston Trio was a great band. Great performers and great entertainers. Folk rock.
I believe the term Folk-Rock wasn't coined until the Byrds hit the scene. I could be wrong but I don't think so.
eric heine - did you grow up in Marin? I grew up in San Rafael.
What a wholesome childhood. (Wink, wink.) 😉
@Nikki Huffman No it was really innocent. It was more like what he happened to be doing. We were sitting on these two bar stools next to this little round cocktail table, alongside a duffel bag full of Mexican ragweed. I don't even think I really knew what marijuana was. Frank and Carlos were out of rolling papers, so Frank had Carlos stuff it in a tampon wrapper. I didn't even know what a tampon was, let alone where it would go. I've always thought tampons you were pretty clever though. They know where they're headed before they leave the factory. Carlos was also showing me the artwork on the cover of Abraxas. Which I appreciate even more as I got older. I saw him in 2000 at his studio in San Rafael. It was right after his success with Supernatural. He said he'd probably have to get high to remember it. Life is funny.
@@redwoods7370 Yeah I was born in Marin General. Lived at 385 Marine Avenue in Mill Valley California.
Learned to swim at Tam High School. Spent a lot of time between Stinson Beach and Bolinas. Spent a lot of time in Tiburon. Worked in Strawberry,
I work in San Rafael for Ghilotti Brothers, Mario and Dino. My father was an architect in Sausalito at 3030 Bridgeway.
He did the Trident, Trident Records, Houlihan's, and the Record Plant. Over 200 homes in the Bay Area, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and New Zealand. Lots of memories.
My Dad (born in 1951) absolutely loves the Kingston Trio. They are his favorite band of all time (followed closely by The Beatles). I grew up listening to The Trio and my kids now listen to and enjoy their music. I especially appreciate the harmonies and often sing along with the music. Thanks for this! 🎶
My dad used to sing this song to me when I was a boy of 5 or 6. That was almost 60 years ago. You brought back some sweet memories.
I see from the other replies that you have a lot old geezer fans, Fil.
Hello, Relayer56 ...Hello from one of those "old geezers"....yep, I admit it....I am 68...Ha..!!
The thing about Fil is that his insight and personality speaks to all ages and sexes. You are never too old to learn and definitely not too old to be entertained. Another geezer here.
I'm one......my mom played TKT all the time. I know all these songs by heart over 50 years later.
Fil, I love you for analyzing this video. The Kingston Trio was part of the music of my childhood. This is a song I can hear in full, in the jukebox of memory.
great group...used to listen to them constantly..brings back memories for sure.
1960 in San Francisco, 2 friends of mine - Kirk Roberts & Alex Nisperos - we’re so enthused with The Kingston Trio albums that Kirk had...we formed a Folksinging Trio of our own, named The Bucket Three (gut bucket for a bass). We entertained around the campfires @ our Troop 15 Boy Scout Summer Camps. In early 1966, Alex joined the Navy...and Bob Visini joined our group, in time for The Bucket Three appearance on The Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour! I am so thankful for The Kingston Trio’s recordings & performances that has served as inspiration & happiness for so many people.
My parents had them on vinyl. I must have listened to this song 1000 times. Thanks for covering them. Another song we sing in Canada that’s based on a true tale is Sam Hall.
Hi Fil! I was 12 yrs old when my sisters were playing this music! I loved it! I was at the beginning of my love for all kinds of music! Elvis had been introduced to me, and then this group was also one I found myself enjoying! I remember when they sang the song about never returning...MTA..it was just funny! The 50s had so many cool folk songs! Then came Smother’s Brothers, and soon Peter, Paul and Mary! Loved that era...I became so eclectic with my music! Rock and Roll one minute, and folk music the next! So glad I never got stuck on just one sound! You sure have an appreciation for the music that was my world! Thank you for doing the old songs...they were special! ✌️
P,P and M are my all-time favorite musicians. I had to stop listening to them for a very long time after Mary passed. I'm just gradually feeling like I can listen again without feeling overwhelmingly sad. I love all the other folkies you mentioned as well.
New Mom I remember when my daughter was in college, and one day I mentioned Peter Paul and Mary...she squealed with delight, and informed me she loved them too...a huge bonding moment and of course we went to their concerts together after that...good memories! Thanks for sharing too! Isn’t it fun coming here, and meeting like minded people! Hugs!
@@suzannerobbins6293 YES! Thanks for your story.
New Mom Hugs! Glad I found you as a new friend! Really means a lot!
@@suzannerobbins6293 Great!! Thanks to Fil too as he is the person who brought us together.
My dad was mad keen about these guys. I grew up listening to them, Guthrie, Seeger and Dylan. I think this was the first song I ever learned on my ukulele (I was about 4). Thanks Fil. You keep reminding me of so much of my childhood.
Later one would leave and be replaced by John Stewart as I remember.
Your video is marvelous; you are to be commended on your thoroughly artful analysis and recitation of the Kingston Trio. I was going through high school from 1960 to 1964 and these three were the mainstay of mine and my friends' entertainment. (Nick Reynolds and Bob Shane went to Menlo College which was the adjunct of Menlo School, the boys' boarding school where I attended. Dave Guard attended Menlo School for his senior year and then went to Stanford.)
I had the tremendous thrill of making my escape from that joint several times during my "sentence" there to go to San Francisco and see the Kingston Trio. Once escorted by my mother and stepfather into the _Hungry I_ and once taken by my father to see -- get this -- George Shearing and Peggy Lee AND the Kingston Trio all on the same program.
Your relation of their history and place in the "folk craze" of the late 50s and early 60s was dead on accurate and I am sincerely glad their memory is in your hands!
Sincerely, thank you.
I grew up on The Kingston Trio. My mom loved them and I've loved them for over 50 years.
The Reverend Mr Black😉, Charlie on the MBTA 😅,
Scotch & Soda🥤, Greenback dollar 💵, The Tijuana Jail 🍻🍺🍺, More Greats for the Kingston Trio, Fil . Oh, and Where have all the flowers gone? 💐. Thanks Fil, for this analysis on the Kingston
Trio.
Interesting. I would also note the arrangement when guys are all singing different things at the same time. That was very important to keep such a simple song interesting to listen to. Thanks for the educational throwback to that time before the folk music turned more topical.
Thank you Phil for an excellent presentation on 'The Kingston Trio'.
Great job, as always, Fil ..... one of the first albums I ever owned ..... Stu "Bear"
I’m my goodness Fil you are trawling my memory banks now. Still know all the words and I was only 3 years old. One of my older brothers like this kind of music and went so well with the saturation of tv westerns of. the time. Still love tv westerns from the 1959 onwards.
Spot on analysis about the music and the time/attitudes. Thanks Fil.
Golly that's a blast from the past and lovely to have it analysed, thanks Fil. I remember we sang Tom Dooley and Where Have All The Flowers Gone in Grade 7 singing class at school (1971). My teacher liked folk music. I remember also singing Puff the Magic Dragon and Morning Town Ride.
My parents turned myself and my siblings on to The Kingston Trio when I was a kid.. My favorite song they do is, Scotch and Soda. The Merry Minuet is awesome, too! I absolutely love this trio.
And the three jolly coachmen
My personal favorite by the Kingston Trio was the MTA.
The Merry Minuet is as current today as it was then. Love the song. Too bad the youth don't understand it :)
John Martin I don’t think that it’s that they don’t understand but that they never heard of it and have their own music. They are as interested in listening to their grandparents music as we are of theirs
Cindy Van Camp Love them, too! My eldest sister bought their albums back in the day and we all learned their songs as kids. They inspired me to pick up guitar as a teenager and play. Their music was so good and covered many genres.
Thanks for this, Fil. Another great job. Tom Dula was tried and hanged in the town where I live; he couldn't get an unbiased jury in Wilkes County where the murder occurred. When I taught middle school, I'd have my 8th graders make makeshift banjos from pie plates, elastic bands, and paint stir sticks and we'd sing and play it around the school after exams. They loved it. The KT had fabulous harmonies and good sense of humor (e.g. "Merry Minuet" and "MTA).
Great analyses, Professor! You gave so much info and presented it superbly!
Mighty impressed with this coverage. This guy gets it,
I have to give Fil my heartfelt thanks and admiration for doing such an absolutely remarkable job of capturing all of the nuances and turns in the road the Kingston Trio took to get started and reach the national acclaim they eventually received. He also covered with incredibly accurate detail the Trio's eventual decline in the music industry, beginning with their acrimonious breakup in 1961, their rejection by the traditional folk community because of their commercial appeal and their choice to remain apolitical during the Folk Era of the '60s, and their inability to remain relevant following the British Invasion. Even during the height of their popularity, The Kingston Trio would have been the first to admit they were hardly the best musicians instrumentally and vocally compared to many of their peers, but they were extraordinary entertainers and were successful in bringing folk music to the attention of a wide audience across all domains of American society. The scope of their influence on other musicians, both amateurs and professionals, is immeasurable. Over time, I have had the opportunity to meet and spend time with the members of every configuration of the Kingston Trio from the Dave Guard years through to the Grove/Zorn/Dougherty ensemble that last played in 2018. (I was even fortunate enough to play Bob Shane's guitar and sing a solo number for him and his New Kingston Trio bandmates, Jim Connors and Pat Horine, after a concert in 1970). So I feel I can say with some authority that Fil's research and presentation touched all the bases in telling the Kingston Trio story. I am deeply impressed and most grateful for his wonderful efforts.
Thanks!
I was 6 years old in 1958 , here in Arkansas, and it seems that I have known that song since then. I sang along with them on this video and sang in tune and beat and only missed a few words. I enjoyed this...thanks, Fil..!!
Loved all of their music. It was so funny to watch them doing their routine every week. The blonde one was my favourite. I like the songs " My Old Man & the song that talked about how whenever people are whispering they were saying bad words❤❤❤❤
Fil, I love the fact that You are interested in all types of Music not just rock, this is the earmark of a true musician. Keep up the Great Work.
I like their syncopated singing each taking a lead at some point even if short, they each take turns going in and out of backing vocals. It kept it interesting.
Although I respect the right of the people giving a thumbs down I wonder why they do it . These videos aren't about whether we like the genre, they are a teaching tool done in an interesting and entertaining way. OfCourse that is merely my opinion. I may be wrong.
There are some people that would thumbs down the Lord’s Prayer or Santa Clause so don’t worry about it
Oh my god I grew up on this stuff! Thank you so much for this!
3yo and loved them. Thanks for the back story FIL. Fun to know.
You are an enthusiastic and talented man... love listening to you...
Well done Fil, in describing the early days and eventual success of my all time favorite band, who inspired me and millions of other HS and college kids to pick up and learn the banjo and guitar. I still listen to them, and include a number of their old standbys in the repertoire of our grey-head folk group.
Thanks Fil. You are always introducing me to all types of music..I never heard this song and I enjoyed this. They harmonize so well together.
Fil, I want to applaud you for bringing all these diverse artists back to us all and exposing at least a couple of generations to a whole new experience, from what they have grown to call music. One of the things I take note of is the instruments being played, how they sound in the mix, there brand, and are they still around today. LP’s Tele’s and Strat’s , saw a lot of competition back in the day.
I was only 6yrs old in 1958 but when I was a kid I could sing every word of Hang Down Your Head Tom Dooley and many of the ballads of that time.
I love how much of their history you knew and got right.
Music lover here, appreciate your understanding of music and the artists over the years, your research and analyses. Enjoy you watching and thinking about the videos you are commenting on.
Very interesting “ back story” about this trio and the industry ! Great analysis once again !
Thank you for your great research.
Thanks for doing this, Fil. I certainly remember this song but I was sure you were going to say Pete Seeger wrote it. I always learn so much watching you.
I'm so excited!
Thanks I had one of those albums!
Interesting analysis. Enjoyed hearing the back story. Thank you.
Love folk music. Such wonderful stories and musicians. My all time favorite though, without doubt, is Peter, Paul and Mary. I've got their first album and just about wore it out when I was a teenager..… in the 80's!
One of the albums my stacked up on our stereo every Sunday! Love it. ❤️
This is the beginning of what Utah Phillips called "The Great Folk Scare" .One of those guitars is a four string tenor guitar- an instrument invented in the 1920s which allowed a tenor banjo player to get a guitar sound as the guitar was becoming the dominant string instrument. After the great folk scare ended, the tenor guitar disappeared from sight but it is back again. The film "A Mighty Wind" from the Spinal Tap folk is a mockumentary about a reunion of folk musicians.
"Pulling Away" and "One More Town" are two of my favorites.
Another excellent breakdown. Bravo!!!
Great choice I remember this from when I was a young kid
You must have really felt this wonderful song and trio Fil, I haven't seen all your videos but so far I haven't seen you nodding your head to music before 💎
I love this song, and awesome commentary as usual mate.
Great Fil now I hearing Tom Dooley in my head, thank you, Jeff in LA USA
Always love your analysis videos, Fil! Please do The Highwaymen singing "Michael Rowed the Boat Ashore." Theirs is far and away the best version ever. Thanks!
Thanks for another interesting analysis.
Suggestion for a future one: The Weavers
Best Wishes, Rod.
We bought all their records back in the day! Great stuff!
I Too played jazz, did jingle work and yet loved this group. Simple? sure, pure velvet blend.
Thank you so much for going over my old beloved group, the KT. Although I never had all their records, I had most of them and I still play their songs. I’ve never heard a banjo sound like Dave Guard and John Stewart, most sound tinny. That song was unusual in that DG was not playing the banjo. He played the difficult 5-string, Bob played the 4-string in that one.
I also loved their Martin guitar sound and always wanted one. I had to settle for a Gibson.
I formed a similar-themed folk group but with insufficient talent to succeed.
Playing guitar and singing was my passion but alas, the fingers grow stiff with age.
👍🏻
I saw the KT IN 72 only Bob the original-at Blytheville Air Force Base, Arkansas in 1972. We walked out of there after the show and Bob was sitting just outside the door with his band mates drinking Cold Duc-Had a good chat with him and got his autograph--It was an honor to meet him. Bob Shane was the first Elvis tribute artist
PS-I again saw the KT (bob with others) in S CA: 87--Folk singers show Some good artist-During the show John Stewart did a solo act--wonderful-and the grand finalie all the artists playing and Nick Remolds came out playing a stand up base-I was floored seeing almost all them together
My music teacher taught our class this song when I was little, along with other songs whose lyrics spoke of death, murder, disease, etc. Seems a bit odd now. But didn't give it a second thought at the time.
Excellent presentation. You really did your homework.
...and no autotune 👍
Fil, before you even begin, I know this one's gonna be good!
I remember these guys from the Ed Sullivan show, Ed turned us on to a lot of acts that we never would of heard of without him
I always thought this group was an imprint just by itself, in style and harmony. Mainly they were so wildly rounded crafted in a variety of styles: Clip-so, Jazz, banjo wailing, and such sting, with purpose in many of their very slow heart thumping ballads. Such as "Take Her out of Pity" leaves one wrenching in the after thought. Truly a great job on the Subject here Fil.
Tom Dooley was hung about 3 hours as the crow flies from where I live in Carter County, TN. I think that it was in Avery County, NC along the border of Johnson County, TN (where Dave Loggins is from). 👍👍
Such a tragic song and so beautifully performed.
I can't believe you are doing this song. I have just been listening to the Kingston Trio the last few months. I was ten years old when this came out and I remember me and my buddies could actually sing it. I think the idea of it being about a gruesome subject was appealing and not that lovey-dovey stuff.
Sweet and sad at the same time however enjoyed this, especially the banjo! ❤️
Thank you for this. The Kingston Trio were my introduction to Folk Music. Hope you do more on them in the future.
Also, I should say the John Stewart era, is my favorite.
Fil:
Thanks for doing all the in depth research on the song! Also these guys journey, I really appreciated to know the background and their roots!
Congrats on 117,000! I really enjoy all your interesting analysis & I feel like I'm getting a surprise every day to see who you are analysing. 🤗😍💕
I remember my dad making his own stereo record player back in the late 1950's and buying sampler recotds. One had MTA and Tom Dooley on it and we just loved MTA. Greenback Dollar was a favorite of President Kennedy.
I remember my brothers played the Kingston Trio, they have lots of uplifting songs too. I think that the difference then was that there was a lot of peace in the world, and justice was brought about when there was crime. It’s a very sad song, but I remember it did not get me down like it feels now. It seems like they show a little love to this man who was condemned to die.
I had all their albums! Loved them.
At last! This is long overdue Fil: this trio were not only innovative and competent, but terrific live performers. I cannot think how many newer songs pinched the melody of “Greenback Dollar,” but I reckon it must be, well, over thirty: even “Move it on Up” by M People is unashamed! I must make a list! This single, I remember, was recorded in 3 hours!
The B-side, “This is the new frontier,” was such a strange song that a very young me had to work hard to get the chords: my primitive piano playing - I cannot read even a note of music despite having played in a prog band for three years - made it possible to learn it. Brian May’s “In the year of (45?)” from Queen lifts it, as do many others, including the Incredible String Band, who were great fans - “In the golden gate of the golden name...” my memory is so rusty.
I’m so glad that someone remembers these very fine people.
Now: Dave Dee etc or It Bites, Yellow Christian, live in Japan! Frankie will be delighted!!😃best Tom T
Thanks for calling attention to these guys Phil! My favorite pre-Beatles vocal group! As a young kid I used to imagine myself serenading a girl on a park bench with their song "Scotch & Soda".
Ha! I was 7 and I remember this was a hit. One of the first songs I used to sing..lol. Pretty easy lyrics... Thumbsup Fil.. Michael Landon was in a movie about this.
Thank you so very much for this excellent vid! I've read that the song was actually written by the condemned man himself while awaiting his execution! His name was Tom Dula. The Trio was a phenomenon in the entertainment business. At their peak, they were producing 15-18% of Capitol's income. Thanks, again!