About the song
Introducing “Wildwood Flower” by The Carter Family, a timeless piece that has adorned the landscape of American folk music for decades. Originating from the rich tradition of Appalachian folk, The Carter Family, consisting of A.P. Carter, his wife Sara Carter, and Sara’s cousin Maybelle Carter, crafted this iconic song in the early 20th century.
Originally released on their album “The Carter Family: 1927-1934,” “Wildwood Flower” captivated audiences with its simple yet haunting melody and poignant lyrics. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes of love, longing, and nostalgia, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Throughout its history, “Wildwood Flower” has held various positions on music charts, garnering acclaim and admiration from both critics and fans alike. Its timeless appeal and enduring legacy have solidified its status as a classic within the folk music genre.
The Carter Family’s masterful rendition of “Wildwood Flower” showcases their exceptional harmonies and instrumental prowess, particularly Maybelle Carter’s innovative guitar playing style, known as the “Carter Scratch.” This unique approach to guitar accompaniment has since become synonymous with the sound of traditional country and folk music.
As you listen to “Wildwood Flower,” you’re transported to a bygone era, where the beauty of simplicity and the power of heartfelt storytelling reign supreme. Whether you’re a longtime fan of folk music or discovering it for the first time, “Wildwood Flower” promises to enchant and captivate, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, I’ll twine with my mingles and waving black hair
With the roses so red and the lilies so fair
And the myrtle so bright with the emerald hue
The pale and the leader and eyes look like blue.
Oh I’ll dance, I will sing and my (*laugh) shall be gay
I will charm every heart, in his crown I will sway
When I woke from my dreaming, my idol was clay
All portion of love had all flown away.
Oh he taught me to love him and promised to love
And to cherish me over all others above
How my heart is now wond’ring no mis’ry can tell
He’s left me no warning, no words of farewell.
Oh, he taught me to love him and called me his (*flow’r)
That was blooming to cheer him through life’s dreary hour
Oh, I long to see him and regret the dark hour
He’s gone and neglected this pale wildwood flow’r.