Interesting Facts about O Johnny Come To Hilo – Cecil Sharp
“Johnny Come Down To Hilo” shanty was given by many collectors: Sharp, Terry (who even make it popular in schools), and Doerflinger. The normal environment for “Johnny Come Down To Hilo” was the work at the capstan. This version comes from “English Folk Chanteys” by Cecil Sharp (1914). Sharp in his book on page 68 left us a short description of this shanty, says that:
“Versions of this chantey are given by Bullen (No. 10) and Tozer (No. 42). Presumably, Hilo is the seaport of that name on the east coast of Hawaii Island.
The source of this sea shanty
The music: “English Folk Chanteys” by Cecil Sharp (1914) (1st ed: p 19).
The lyrics: “English Folk Chanteys” by Cecil Sharp (1914) (1st ed: p 19).
Mentioned in: “Shanties from the Seven Seas” by Stan Hugill (1st ed: p 267).
The Record of O Johnny Come To Hilo – Cecil Sharp
You also can find this record on my YouTube channel here or directly listen below. Additionally, if you want to share your opinion about the record or share your opinion you can do it in my Facebook forum here, or leave a comment at the bottom of this blog article.
The musical notation
The full lyrics
O Johnny Come To Hilo
O a poor old man came a riding by,
Says I: Old man, your horse will die,
– O, Johnny come to Hi-lo,
– O-poor old man.
– O-wake her,
– O–shake her,
– O-shake that girl with the blue dress on,
– O-Johnny come to Hi–lo,
– Poor old man.