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PODCAST

Folk Files

Welcome to Folk Files, a podcast hosted by Olivia Harding that seeks to uncover the mysteries of folk music throughout the ages and dive deep into the tangled history of murder ballads, sea shanties, rebel songs, and other music that has withstood the test of time!

music music history

All Episodes

00:23:14

Folk Files #2.10 - Beware the Moss

Folk Files ·

2025/10/30

Long Lankin is the bogeyman of the Child Ballads. A mysterious figure who lives in the moss (or the gorse, or the hay), he is known as a bloodthirsty murderer. But what’s the full story? Explore the origins of the horror-filled ballad in this Halloween episode of Folk Files.Host: Olivia HardingSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcastMusical excerpts:ARTIST: The Wainwright SistersWORK: Long LankinSOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8vzCkJJlSQARTIST: Steeleye SpanWORK: Long

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00:32:53

Folk Files #2.9 - I Said the Sparrow

Folk Files ·

2025/10/20

Who Killed Cock Robin? It was I, said the Sparrow. But where did the song come from? And what does it mean? Explore a world of birds, nursery rhymes, mythology, and history in this month’s episode.Host: Olivia HardingSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcastYuri Gohen: @yurigohenfolksongWho Killed Cock Robin by Yuri Gohen: https://yurigohen.bandcamp.com/album/who-killed-cock-robinhttps://open.spotify.com/album/5I5HTXbYVPOxc7MtKFU9jX?si=LXPUC86NQ1iamUUntn4GtAMusical

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00:31:57

Folk Files #2.8 - Stand and Deliver

Folk Files ·

2025/08/28

Robbers, bandits, highwaymen…there are a lot of English folk songs about outlaws. In this episode of Folk Files, we’ll look at why there are so many songs about criminals and what patterns exist in these ballads. Then, we’ll look at Robbers’ Retreat in an attempt to figure out why the song (also known as Cadgwith Anthem) doesn’t seem to follow any of those patterns.Host: Olivia HardingSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast*This episode of Folk Files was recorded on the road

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00:30:39

Episode #2.7 - I Died For Love

Folk Files ·

2025/07/31

This episode of Folk Files looks at a family of songs where the main character “dies for love.” In particular, I explore “The Butcher Boy,” a song with American, Irish, and English versions. The versions vary drastically: they swap out characters, drop details, and change the reasoning behind the narrator’s decisions. I investigate what effect these changes have on the listener and what lessons we can draw from those effects.Host: Olivia HardingCheck out more from Pollyanna:

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00:25:41

Episode #2.6 - No Strings Attached

Folk Files ·

2025/06/23

Welcome to Part II of Folk Files’ exploration of the history of folk instruments! Learn about the origins and etymology of accordions, concertinas, harmonicas, bagpipes, whistles, and a sampling of percussion! (Recorded with a head cold - please excuse any stuffiness).Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcastMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Duo SynkroWORK: Live at Paris Bal FolkSOURCE:

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00:27:17

Episode #2.5 - Strings Attached

Folk Files ·

2025/05/30

This episode of Folk Files takes a departure from folk songs to talk about folk instruments! Learn about the history, ancestors, and etymology of folky string instruments, including the banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and guitar!Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=trueMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Ekona DiattaWORK: GambiaSOURCE:

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00:38:40

Folk Files #2.4 - I Am A Roving Gambler

Folk Files ·

2025/04/23

This episode explores the variations, history, and geography of the bluegrass song “The Roving Gambler.”Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Ashford King, The Cecil Sharp House/Ralph Vaughan Williams Library, and Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Listen to Ashford King: https://open.spotify.com/album/1IZwE0c1mzOQtd3nnWn8nE?si=A5AenKxXRvmAiM_duUVHPgSupport Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast?redirect=trueMusical excerpts:ARTIST: Doc WatsonWORK: The Roving

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00:36:27

Folk Files #2.3 - No Land is Alone

Folk Files ·

2025/03/31

From 1986-1991, a “Singing Revolution” took place in the Baltic states, leading to their independence from the Soviet Union. This episode of Folk Files looks at the rich musical history that paved the way for the Singing Revolution to occur and provides an introduction to Estonian folk and choral music. (Apologies for any horrible Estonian pronunciation).Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Cliff S., Ramona Holmes, and Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Musical

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01:08:28

Episode Swap - Basic Folk: Carolyn Kendrick's...

Folk Files ·

2025/03/19

Surprise! This is not an episode of Folk Files: It's an episode of Basic Folk! Basic Folk, produced by the Bluegrass Situation, is a podcast that features honest conversations with folk musicians. Hosted by Cindy Howes and Lizzie No, Basic Folk approaches interviews with warmth, humor and insightful questions. Since 2018, this podcast has dignified under the radar roots musicians by providing a platform that they might not otherwise have.This episode features Carolyn Kendrick, whose latest project

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00:21:44

Folk Files #2.2 - Bedlam Boys Are Bonny

Folk Files ·

2025/02/13

He goes bare, he lives by the air, and he wants no drink nor money…or does he? In this episode, we explore the songs and stories surrounding Tom of Bedlam. Where did the modern tune come from? And why is the title misleading? Hold on to your hat and your sanity for this musical journey to Pluto’s kitchen and beyond.Host: Olivia HardingSpecial thanks to: Aaron J. MortonCheck out Basic Folk: https://basicfolk.com/Musical excerpts:ARTIST: HeritageWORK: Mad Tom of BedlamSOURCE:

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00:23:04

Folk Files #2.1 - A-Fishin' For The Whale

Folk Files ·

2025/01/24

Greenland Whale Fisheries is the featured song in this episode of Folk Files. While delving into the origins of the song, we will explore other ballads about Greenland and dip our toes into the extensive history of whaling. Well row’d, jolly trouts! Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Pegmouth, ARRR!!!, and Aaron J. Morton Musical excerpts: ARTIST: ARRR!!! WORK: Greenland Whale Fisheries SOURCE: Plunderstruck (2010) ARTIST: Peter, Paul, and Mary WORK: Greenland Whale Fisheries SOURCE:

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00:22:26

Folk Files #12 - Of All The Trees

Folk Files ·

2024/12/13

Happy Holidays! In this episode of Folk Files, we will explore the history, lore, and significance of plants in Christmas carols, with a special emphasis on the Holly and the Ivy!Host: Olivia Harding Special Thanks To: Aaron J. Morton Support Folk Files: https://www.patreon.com/c/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Trio of Nyckelharpas (from The Nyckelharpa Effect) WORK: The Holly and the Ivy SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86dkwTJWWZk ARTIST: Golden Bough WORK: The Holly and the

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00:28:05

Episode #11 - Filk Files

Folk Files ·

2024/11/25

Welcome to Filk Files! But what is Filk? And why are there so many aliens, adventurers, hobbits, muppets, and nerds in this episode?Host: Olivia Harding Guest Speakers: Daisy O’Danny, Marc Gunn, Andrew McKee, Dan Marcotte You can find the full interviews with each guest speaker (including a video interview with the Brobdingnagian Bards!) as well as other goodies on the Folk Files Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast. All the proceeds from this month’s purchases will be donated to the

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00:33:00

Folk Files #10 - Women Without Choices

Folk Files ·

2024/10/17

This episode of Folk Files discusses songs involving infanticide. “The Well Below the Valley” and “The Cruel Mother” stand at the center of this heartbreaking voyage through historical records, Scandinavian folklore, and murder ballads.Host: Olivia Harding Join the Folk FIles Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Special Thanks To: Aaron J. Morton Note: Because it’s always true in folk songs, when I refer to pregnant people in general, I say “women”. However, the difficulties I

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00:26:26

Folk Files #9 - Cuckoos and Nightingales

Folk Files ·

2024/08/30

Episode 9 is all about birds! Embark on a journey around the world to sample bird songs and birdsong. Along the way, listen to the mockingbird, help the blackbird find his missing pieces, and rumple up the cuckoo’s nest. Note: This was recorded on the road (away from the studio) so please excuse any loss of audio quality!Host: Olivia Harding Join the Folk FIles Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Beatrice Harrison WORK: “Actually recorded in Beatrice

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00:23:36

Folk Files #8 - Peaches in the Summertime

Folk Files ·

2024/07/17

“Shady Grove” is an Appalachian folk song that is often linked to the English ballad “Matty Groves”. But what is the actual relationship between them? This episode of Folk Files discusses the meaning of “Shady Grove” and untangles the origins of these two songs.Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J Morton. Join the Folk Files Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/FolkFilesPodcast Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Doc Watson WORK: Shady Grove SOURCE:

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00:27:20

Folk Files #7 - Trousers and Petticoats

Folk Files ·

2024/06/18

This month’s episode focuses on folk songs from the British Isles where the main character dresses, acts, or lives in a way that challenges gender norms. It also offers a glimpse into the work of “Queer Folk”, an English organization that highlights traditional songs with LGBTQIA+ themes.Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Shiloh DeFabia, Lafayette Matthews, and Aaron J Morton. Learn more about Queer Folk: https://www.queerfolk.co.uk/ Join the Folk Files Patreon:

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00:28:33

Folk Files #6 - Summer Is A-Comin' In

Folk Files ·

2024/05/16

April is dead and summer is a-coming in! This episode of Folk Files explores the tradition of May songs and festivals, specifically focusing on Hal an Tow and the Flora Day celebrations in Cornwall. Morris dancing, maypoles, and the origin of May Day are also discussed.Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Stephen Winick, Donna Smith, Aaron J. Morton, The Soup Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Marc Block WORK: Hal an Tow SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgBzSNOc3A8 ARTIST: Ranarim WORK: Maj vare

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00:23:58

Folk Files #5 - No More To Roam

Folk Files ·

2024/04/17

Wayfaring Stranger is the featured song in this episode of Folk Files, which explores the history of Appalachia, shape note tradition, and the difficulties of tracing the origins of early American folk music. Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to: Aaron J. Morton, Jo Morton, Lucas "Whiskey Richards" Husted, and Mary White-Harding Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Jack White WORK: Wayfaring Stranger SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25P08So3rfI ARTIST: Cherokee National Youth Choir WORK:

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00:27:47

Folk Files #4 - Haul Away

Folk Files ·

2024/02/29

This episode of Folk Files traces the roots of popular sea shanties to Black work songs and African folk traditions.Full list of referenced works: https://jmp.sh/gcOBH83N To jump into the black origins of country music, start here: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2022/10/black-country-music-legacy/671818/ https://time.com/5673476/ken-burns-country-music-black-artists/ Host: Olivia Harding Special thanks to Cherie and Michael Albert Musical excerpts: ARTIST: Paul Clayton and the Fo’c’sle

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