Shenandoah is a beautiful American folk song. No one knows exactly who wrote it or when it was written but it seems it was written sometime in the early 1800’s. It was written by voyageurs – adventurous men who were looking to make a fortune in the wilds of the Midwest by fur trading. These men often sang as they worked – perhaps partially a release from the drudgery of their tasks and partially a way to keep them in time with each other as they paddled their canoes. It later become popular among boat crews on the Mississippi as well as sea-faring sailors through the years. There have been several versions of the lyrics through since its origin as different groups have altered them to fit their own lifestyle. Originally, the lyrics were about a trader and his love for the daughter of an Indian chief named Oskanondonha, otherwise called Shenandoah. It was later changed to be a general love song and even seen as a song about the Shenandoah River itself, situated in Virginia. (far away from the Midwest regions where the fur traders worked!)
This version is by my favorite a cappella group – the Voices of Liberty. (Otherwise known as “Liberty Voices”, “Regeneration”, and simply “Voices”.) They sing in the America Pavilion in Epcot and if you have never heard them on your visit – you’re missing out! They are a fabulous and incredibly talented group of people with gorgeous vocal quality and tight harmonies. Enjoy! Let me know in the comments what you think of when you hear this song!
Oh Shenandoah,
I long to hear you,
Away you rolling river.
Oh Shenandoah,
I long to hear you,
Away, I’m bound away
‘Cross the wide Missouri.
Oh Shenandoah,
I love your daughter,
Away, you rolling river.
Oh Shenandoah,
For years I’ve sought her.
Away, I’m bound away
‘Cross the wide Missouri.
Oh Shenandoah,
Now I must leave you,
Away, you rolling river.
Oh Shenandoah,
I’ll not deceive you,
Away, I’m bound away
‘Cross the wide Missouri.
