Lambert Murphy - Roses of Picardy (1917) video free download
Roses of Picardy
Words by Fred E. Weatherly, Music by Haydn Wood
Lambert Murphy, tenor and orchestra
Recorded December 24, 1917
Victor 45150
Some of the most intense fighting in World War I occurred in the Picardy region of France, reflected in the melancholy English popular song "Roses of Picardy" (1916) and also in the large number of cemeteries that mark former battlefields in the Somme valley. Picardy was also the scene of bitter fighting in World War II—in May 1940 and August and September 1944.
(The following is from the January 18, 1919 issue of "The Music Trades")
Fred Weatherly, composer of the words, struck a chord in every heart when he penned the lines of a song that spoke of the roses that shine in Picardy, just at a time when the fiercest battle the world has ever known was being fought on the plains of Picardy. It was indeed a wholesome thought that despite the greatest congregation of artillery, together with shells and all the terrific paraphernalia of war, the Roses would again bloom in Picardy. The sublime faith bound up in the simple strains of a ballad naturally took hold of the people of England, and as our own brave boys came back from the battle-torn plains of Picardy, they too will enjoy with special significance the simple expression of so sublime a thought in song.
Comments
9 years ago
ariel films inc
First time I heard this was either a Looney tunes Daffy Duck Cartoon or It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie BrownMy dad was an avid WW 1 buff (he did NOT fight for he was born years later) and would always watch the segment on Great Pumpknn and sing along hence why I had to try and find this11 years ago
ziggy swartz
With Remembrance Day just past, I can imagine this being played on a hand cranked Victrola, in the trenches on the Western Front. Just before the next slaughter.11 years ago
Trombonology Erstwhile
Difficult to say, with Paul Weston's studio orchestra, but my guess would be Joe Howard, who had that kind of smooth tone and worked with the bandleader extensively.11 years ago
musicmandon1
What a beautiful song this is, and the singers who did it are an honor roll of the great tenors-McCormack, James Melton, Mario Lanza. Lanza's version is absolutely stunning.11 years ago
Trombonology Erstwhile
I'd never heard the verse before -- it's lovely. You mention Sinatra's version, which is great; my favorite , also of a more "modern" period, is Jo Stafford's.11 years ago
John Atkinson
Yes, it is beautiful. I wonder how it would sound by a modern singer.11 years ago
patrickdcyau
This must be the first and original recording, even earlier than John McCormack!11 years ago
Art Howard
Lovely WWl song..........Related Videos
