Katie Cruel
Katie Cruel

Karen Dalton - Katie Cruel Lyrics

Rock
Jan 24, 2012
356
Katie Cruel Music Video

Katie Cruel Lyrics

When I first came to town
They called me the roving jewel
Now they've changed their tune
Call me Katie Cruel

Through the woods I'm going
And through the boggy mire
Straight way down the road
'Til I come to my heart's desire

If I was where I would be
Then I'd be where I am not
Here I am where I must be
Where I would be, I cannot

When I first came to town
They bought me drinks a-plenty
Now they've changed their tune
And hand me the bottles empty

If I was where I would be
Then I'd be where I am not
Here I am where I must be
Where I would be, I cannot

Writer(s): BERT JANSCH
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Who originally wrote the song 'Katie Cruel'?

    'Katie Cruel' is a traditional American folksong of likely Scottish origin, and because of its folk roots, the exact original author is unknown. The version performed by Karen Dalton is attributed to Bert Jansch for lyrics.

  2. When was Karen Dalton's version of 'Katie Cruel' released?

    Karen Dalton's version of 'Katie Cruel' was released on her 1971 album, 'In My Own Time'. Her rendition is considered one of the best-known recordings of the song.

  3. What is the historical context of 'Katie Cruel'?

    The American version of 'Katie Cruel' dates back to the Revolutionary War period. It is a traditional folk song with roots in Scottish music, specifically resembling the Scottish songs 'Licht Bob's Lassie' and elements from the Irish lament 'Siúil A Rúin'.

  4. Which other artists have recorded 'Katie Cruel'?

    'Katie Cruel' has been covered by various artists, including Peggy Seeger, Bert Jansch with Beth Orton and Devendra Banhart, Lankum, Agnes Obel, and Lisa LeBlanc, among others. The song's enduring appeal has led to numerous interpretations and recordings across decades.

  5. How does Stephen Thompson describe Karen Dalton's rendition of 'Katie Cruel'?

    Stephen Thompson describes Karen Dalton's rendition as 'unsettling,' noting the haunting nature of her voice as she sings about themes like bridges burned and backs turned. This is poignant, considering Dalton's tragic personal life, marked by struggles and homelessness.

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