About the song
“Barbara Allen” by The Everly Brothers is a poignant and haunting rendition of a traditional folk ballad that tells a story of love, regret, and loss. Released in 1966 on their album Two Yanks in England, this version showcases the duo’s remarkable harmonies and emotional depth, breathing new life into a classic tale that has resonated with audiences for centuries. The song, originally rooted in British folk tradition, has been covered by many artists over the years, but The Everly Brothers’ interpretation stands out for its rich vocal interplay and heartfelt delivery.
The narrative of “Barbara Allen” centers around a young man, Sir John Graeme, who is dying from unrequited love for Barbara Allen. As the story unfolds, he calls for her, hoping to express his love one last time. However, Barbara, initially indifferent to his plight, eventually comes to realize the depth of his feelings and the tragedy of their missed opportunities. Lines such as “All in the merry month of May, when green buds they were swelling” set the scene for this timeless tale, evoking images of youth and the fleeting nature of love.
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Musically, “Barbara Allen” features a simple yet effective arrangement that highlights The Everly Brothers’ vocal harmonies. The blend of their voices creates a haunting quality, enhancing the song’s emotional weight. The instrumentation is understated, allowing the lyrics and vocal performances to take center stage. The combination of gentle acoustic guitar and soft backing harmonies adds a layer of intimacy, drawing listeners into the story’s tragic narrative.
The chorus serves as a poignant reminder of the young man’s feelings and Barbara’s eventual realization of his love. The repetition of phrases like “Oh, my heart is breaking” emphasizes the sorrow and regret that permeate the song, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced love and loss. The Everly Brothers’ ability to convey vulnerability and emotion through their harmonies elevates the song, making it a memorable and impactful listen.
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Throughout “Barbara Allen,” the themes of love, regret, and mortality resonate deeply. The lyrics reflect the idea that love can be both beautiful and tragic, often tinged with the pain of unfulfilled desires. This universal message is part of what has allowed the song to endure over time, making it relevant to new generations of listeners. The Everly Brothers’ interpretation brings a fresh perspective to the age-old tale, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences of love and longing.
In the context of The Everly Brothers’ extensive catalog, “Barbara Allen” stands out as a significant track that showcases their vocal artistry and storytelling abilities. The song has been praised for its melodic richness and emotional depth, contributing to the duo’s legacy as pioneers of harmonious music. Its enduring appeal is evident through its continued popularity and the way it evokes feelings of nostalgia for lost love.
“Barbara Allen” is a haunting exploration of love’s complexities and the regret that can accompany it. Through its engaging lyrics and emotional delivery, the song invites listeners to connect with their own experiences of love and heartache. The Everly Brothers’ masterful storytelling and musicality ensure that this rendition remains a cherished classic, continuing to touch the hearts of listeners everywhere.
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Lyrics
“Barbara Allen”
When flowers were a-bloomin’
Sweet Willie on his deathbed lay
For the love of Barbara Allen
He sent his servant to the town
The town where she did dwell in
Saying “Master dear has sent me here
If your name be Barbara Allen”
Then slowly, slowly she got up
And slowly she went to him
And all she said when she got there
“Young man, I think you’re dying”
“Oh don’t you remember the other day
When we were in the tavern?
You drank your health to the ladies there
And you slighted Barbara Allen”
He turned his face unto the wall
He turned his back upon her
“Adieu! Adieu! To all my friends
Be kind to Barbara Allen”
She looked to the east, She looked to the west
She saw his corpse a-comin’
“Oh sit him down for me” she cried
“That I may gaze upon him”
The more she looked the more she grieved
She bursted out to cryin’
Sayin’ “Pick me up and carry me home
For I feel like I am dyin'”
They buried Willie in the old churchyard
And Barbara in the new one
From Willie’s grave there grew a rose
From Barbara’s a green briar
They grew and grew to the old church wall
And could not grow no higher
And there they died in a true love-knot
The rosebush and the briar