The Shady Grove

Shady Grove is a folk song that began to be heard in the southern Appalachians around the time of the Civil War. The memorable melody has a distinctively haunting quality that one cant help but be affected by. Many different lyrics exist for the song (some estimate it could be as many as 250), but the central themes are that of longing, love, and friendship. The use of washboard and spoons at one point brings this catchy bluegrass tune to life, helping us connect to this delightful American folk song.