What Songs Did Burl Ives Write

The question of “What Songs Did Burl Ives Write” opens a charming window into the creative heart of a beloved American icon. While Burl Ives is widely celebrated for his iconic renditions of traditional folk songs and his distinctive booming voice, many are curious about his own contributions as a songwriter. This article will delve into the lesser-known but significant aspect of his career, exploring the tunes he penned himself.

The Creative Brushstrokes of Burl Ives Songwriting

When we ask “What Songs Did Burl Ives Write,” we’re often surprised by the breadth of his original work. While he masterfully interpreted countless existing folk ballads and children’s tunes, Ives was also a composer in his own right. His songwriting often drew from the same wellspring of American folklore, nature, and simple, heartfelt emotions that characterized his performances. He possessed a gift for crafting melodies that felt both familiar and fresh, imbuing them with his characteristic warmth and sincerity. The importance of understanding his original compositions lies in recognizing the full scope of his artistic talent beyond just interpretation.

His original songs often reflected his personal experiences and observations. Some key aspects of what songs Burl Ives wrote include:

• Themes of nature and the outdoors.
• Stories and characters from rural American life.
• Children’s songs with playful and educational elements.
• Songs with a gentle, reflective, or philosophical tone.

While not every song he wrote achieved the widespread fame of “Big Rock Candy Mountain” (a song he popularized but did not write), his original works offer a more intimate glimpse into his creative process. Here are a few examples of songs attributed to Burl Ives:

1. “The Wayfaring Stranger” (While often considered a traditional song, Ives’ arrangement and popularization are significant. He also wrote original verses for it.)
2. “The Little White Cloud That Cried”
3. “A Little Bitty Tear”
4. “Holly Jolly Christmas” (Though often associated with him, this song was written by Johnny Marks. Ives’ rendition made it a massive hit, leading to common misconception.)

It’s worth noting that Burl Ives’ discography is vast, and categorizing which songs are purely original versus traditional arrangements can sometimes be nuanced. However, his personal touch is evident in the way he brought any song to life. A small table highlighting some of his known original works:

To explore the charming world of Burl Ives’ own musical creations, please refer to the comprehensive list of his original songs available in the liner notes of his albums and in reputable music archives. This resource will provide a detailed look at the treasures he penned himself.