One Man Mormon Blues Band: Music

• MP3 short clip, hi-fi play (broadband)
• MP3 short clip, lo-fi play (modem)

The opening words of this song are straight from the Book of Mormon where Christ announces his birth in the new world. I try to weave in words and phrases from more traditional approaches to the nativity.

The music is from a folk song called "East Virginia" about, well, east Virginia. Actually it is a song of longing, heartbreak and sorrow; typical of many early American ballads. The tune is actually pretty ubiquitous and can be found with many texts and stories appended to it.

Lift up your head be of good cheer
On this night I'm coming here
You are the handmaid of the Lord
Mother of a King without a sword

And behold the time is at hand
And this night I'll take my stand
Unto thee and all my own
Let my seeds of truth be sown

Peace on the earth good will towards men
Unknown on earth except only when
That silent night it's been so long
When I was weak and you were strong

Joy to the world the angels say
Born the truth the light the way
Born that men might all be brothers
Born to Mary the Saviors Mother