Reinterpreting Traditional Folk Music in Contemporary Styles

The question of whether it is appropriate to sing or perform traditional folk music in contemporary styles, such as pop or indie, is a fascinating one. The answer lies in the history and evolution of traditional music itself, a history that is characterized not by rigid preservation but by dynamic reinterpretation and transformation over time.

The Definition of Traditional Music

The only real qualification for music to be considered traditional is its ties to the past. This makes the concept of reinterpretation a fundamental aspect of the genre. Performers have been reinterpreting traditional music for as long as it has been passed down from one generation to the next. This process has been ongoing since the first song or tune was passed from source A to source B, happening wherever and whenever that occurred in the distant past. A prime example of this is the song, "The House of the Rising Sun."

The Evolution of "The House of the Rising Sun"

The British pop group The Animals had a hit with "The House of the Rising Sun," which they got from a track on Bob Dylan's debut album. Dylan, in turn, got it from his mentor/friend Dave Van Ronk. The song's origin is unknown, with credible versions dating back to the early 20th century. The song's wordings vary from version to version but are generally consistent with the one popularized by The Animals. The original chord structures were simpler, reflecting a common 1-4-5 major chord progression typical in most blues songs. However, Van Ronk introduced a number of rapidly moving minor chords, significantly changing the song's feel with little alteration to the melodic line. This example demonstrates the transformative nature of traditional music through the hands of capable performers.

Chord Progressions and Versatile Performances

Van Ronk changed the chord progression, making it more complex and bluesy while keeping the melody intact. For instance, when playing in the key of C major, the original chords would be as follows:

The new Van Ronk chord progression, still in the key of C, is:

These changes exemplify how traditional songs and tunes, derived from the past, can still be reinvented and transformed for modern audiences while maintaining the essence of the original work.

The Endless Possibilities of Arrangements

This reinvention is not limited to merely changing chords and melodies. Traditional songs that were initially performed on instruments like fiddles or banjos can later be played on piano, guitar, and other contemporary instruments. There are no set rules for arrangements. Performers can even add electric guitars or drums, effectively electrifying the instruments, as long as the feel and essence of the song remain intact.

Gender, Tempo, and Instrumentation

Rearranging music is a creative process that extends beyond just the instrumental changes. Gender swapping characters, altering melodies, or changing the tempo are all acceptable and can result in fresh and innovative interpretations. For example, Doc Watson and Clarence Ashley's version and Bob Dylan's adapted rendition share the same essence but are distinctly different in their execution.

The Inexorable Flow of Traditional Music

Traditional songs and tunes come from the well of the past but flow inexorably to the ocean of the future. This evolution is evident in how different versions of "The House of the Rising Sun" have been adapted and performed over time. Each rendition maintains the song's core elements while simultaneously embracing the contemporary context and perspective of the performer.

In conclusion, traditional folk music is not static but is perpetually being reborn and reimagined. The process of reinterpretation is an integral part of the tradition, allowing music to connect the past with the present and the future. So, while maintaining respect for the original forms, contemporary musicians have every right to infuse traditional songs with new life, ensuring that these timeless melodies continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.