“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a world where the roles and lives of women were starkly defined by their marital status. This is the world captured by “Single Girl, Married Girl,” a traditional American folk song that resonates with both historical significance and timeless relevance. The song’s poignant portrayal of the contrasting lives of single and married women offers a window into societal norms and personal struggles, making it a compelling piece to explore.
About The Composition
Title: Single Girl, Married Girl
Composer: Traditional (first recorded by The Carter Family)
Premiere Date: 1927 (by The Carter Family)
Album/Opus/Collection: N/A (often included in collections of American folk music)
Genre: Folk/Country
Background
“Single Girl, Married Girl” is a traditional American folk song first recorded by The Carter Family in 1927. The Carter Family, consisting of A.P. Carter, Sara Carter, and Maybelle Carter, played a crucial role in the preservation and popularization of American folk music. This song, like many others in their repertoire, was collected from Appalachian folk traditions and reflects the lived experiences of women in rural America during the early 20th century.
The song’s lyrics draw a stark contrast between the carefree life of a single girl and the burdensome life of a married woman, highlighting themes of freedom versus responsibility, and joy versus hardship. When it was first recorded, the song resonated deeply with audiences, offering a poignant commentary on the societal expectations placed upon women.
Musical Style
“Single Girl, Married Girl” is characterized by its simple yet haunting melody, typical of Appalachian folk music. The Carter Family’s version features Sara Carter’s plaintive vocals, accompanied by Maybelle Carter’s autoharp and guitar. The song’s structure is straightforward, with a repetitive verse-chorus form that emphasizes the contrasting experiences described in the lyrics.
The instrumentation is sparse but effective, with the autoharp providing a distinctive harmonic backdrop that complements the vocal delivery. The song’s simplicity allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to come to the forefront, making it a powerful piece despite its musical minimalism.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Single Girl, Married Girl” are central to its impact. They tell the story of a single girl who lives a carefree life, dancing and enjoying her freedom, contrasted with a married girl who is burdened with domestic responsibilities and often feels trapped by her circumstances. This dichotomy is expressed through lines such as:
“Single girl, single girl, she’s going dressed so fine
Married girl, married girl, she wears just any kind”
The themes of the song revolve around the loss of personal freedom and the harsh realities of married life for women, offering a poignant commentary on gender roles and societal expectations.
Performance History
Since its recording by The Carter Family in 1927, “Single Girl, Married Girl” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. Notable performances include renditions by Joan Baez, Dolly Parton, and Odetta, among others. The song has maintained its relevance over the decades, often featured in collections of American folk music and performed in concerts dedicated to traditional music.
Cultural Impact
“Single Girl, Married Girl” has had a significant influence on American folk music and culture. It serves as an important historical document, reflecting the social conditions and gender dynamics of its time. The song has been used in various media to evoke a sense of nostalgia and to highlight the historical struggles of women. Its enduring popularity speaks to its powerful message and the universal themes it addresses.
Legacy
The legacy of “Single Girl, Married Girl” is evident in its continued relevance and the number of artists who have covered it. The song remains a staple in the repertoire of folk musicians and is often used in educational settings to discuss the history of American folk music and the role of women in society. Its poignant portrayal of women’s lives continues to resonate with contemporary audiences, making it a timeless piece that speaks to the human condition.
Conclusion
“Single Girl, Married Girl” is more than just a folk song; it is a powerful narrative that captures the essence of women’s experiences in a particular historical context. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to touch the hearts of listeners, making it a significant piece of American musical heritage. I encourage you to explore this song further, perhaps starting with The Carter Family’s original recording, and to reflect on the timeless themes it presents.
Video
Lyrics
Single girl, single girl
She’s going dressed so fine
Oh, she’s going dressed so fine
Married girl, married girl
She wears just any kind
Oh, she wears just any kind
Single girl, single girl
She goes to store & buys
Oh, she goes to store & buys
Married girl, married girl
She rocks the cradle & cries
Oh, she rocks the cradle & cries
Single girl, single girl
She’s going just where she please
Oh, she’s going where she please
Married girl, married girl
Baby on her knees
Oh, baby on her knees