“WANDERING BOY”

 

Another American song being presented today is one written and published by composer Ralph S. Hanna in 1894, bearing the original title, “Somebody‘s Boy Is Homeless Tonight” (see the original sheet music). Hanna was known for his hymns and crafting deeply sentimental songs that explored the depths of loss. The song’s popularity is evident from its frequent appearances in publications throughout the late 19^th and 20^th centuries.

 

The piece is considered a song air primarily because of its lyrical quality and slow- moving tempo, which makes it resonate with the listener on a more profound level. The tune focuses heavily on its poignant, lyrical and somewhat repetitive melody, invoking a sense of melancholy. Thus, Mr. Hanna’s instruction within the sheet music that the piece should be played, “Slow with feeling”.

 

Note that the song should not be confused with, “Where Is My Boy Tonight”, written by another composer in 1877.

 

It took another rural musician, J. Frank Jenkins from Dobson in Surry County North Carolina, to make the first recording of the song in May 1927, but as an instrumental fiddle piece.  There have been countless other artists that have recorded the song, from the original Carter Family of Maces Spring, Virginia, to Sheryl Crow (see lyrics as sung by the Carter Family). Mr. Jenkins’ interpretation of Wandering Boy, stripped of its lyrics, showcases the song’s melodic beauty.

 

 

*The term lyrical in music refers to a melody, performance, or composition that is highly expressive, emotional, and song-like, often featuring a smooth, flowing, and melodic quality. It suggests an artistically beautiful, singing style, or vocal-like line, whether produced by a human voice or an instrument. You will note on the sheet music’s title page, that the composer described his work, as a “Beautiful Song”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“WANDERING BOY”, as sung and recorded by the Carter Family August 2, 1927 in Bristol, Virginia

 

Out in the cold world and far away from home

Somebody's boy is wandering alone

No one to guide him and keep his footsteps right

Somebody's boy is homeless tonight

 

Out in the hallway there stands a vacant chair

Yonder's the shoes my darling used to wear

Empty the cradle, the one that's loved so well

How I miss him there's no tongue can tell

 

Bring back my boy, my wandering boy

Far, far away, wherever he may be

Tell him his mother with faded cheeks and hair

At their old home is waiting him there

 

Oh, could I see him and fold him to my breast

Gladly I'd close my eyes and be at rest

There is no other that's left to give me joy

Bring back my boy, my wandering boy

 

Well, I remember the parting words he said

We'll meet again where no sad tears are shed

There'll be no goodbyes in that bright land so fair

When done with life, I’ll meet you up there

 

Bring back my boy, my wandering boy

Far, far away, wherever he may be

Tell him his mother with faded cheeks and hair

At their old home is waiting him there