Union Maid
Woody Guthrie
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20 facts about this song
Historical Context"Union Maid" is a protest song written in 1940. This period saw a rise in labor conflicts and strikes in America, with workers demanding better conditions and rights.
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Song CreatorsThe song is credited to both the Almanac Singers, a New York-based folk group known for their labor songs and activism, and Woody Guthrie, an iconic folk musician and songwriter.
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Lyrics Composition"Union Maid" is characterized by its empowering lyrics, which focus on the strength and determination of a union woman who refuses to be silenced or intimidated.
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Song InspirationWoody Guthrie wrote "Union Maid" after a conversation with Aunt Molly Jackson, a union activist, who felt that there was a need for more songs about female union members.
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Tune AdaptationThe tune of "Union Maid" is borrowed from the popular religious hymn, "Red River Valley".
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Song InfluenceThe song has remained relevant for decades, continuing to inspire and galvanize union workers around the world. In modern contexts, it has been covered and adapted by various artists, musicians, and activists.
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Use in DemonstrationsDue to its strong pro-union message, "Union Maid" has often been used during protests and strikes. It has become something of an anthem for union workers.
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Repetition TechniqueTo make the song easily singable and memorable, Guthrie used repetition in "Union Maid". The chorus repeats after each verse, creating a rallying cry effect that makes the song effective in large group settings.
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Song ReceptionDespite its overt political message, "Union Maid" is respected as an essential piece of American folk music. Its longevity is testament to its musical quality, as well as its historical and political significance.
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Global ReachAlthough it was written primarily for an American audience, "Union Maid" resonates with workers and union members globally. It has been sung and echoed in labor movements around the world, from South America to Europe and Asia.
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Composition"Union Maid" was written by legendary folk musician Woody Guthrie in 1940. He composed the song to highlight the struggles and victories of women labor union activists.
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Song HistoryAlthough Guthrie wrote the song, it was first recorded by the Almanac Singers, a group of musicians which included Guthrie himself. The song has since been covered by many artists.
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LyricsThe song's refrain, "Oh, you can't scare me, I'm sticking to the union," became a rallying cry for workers across the United States.
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Music StyleThe song reflects Guthrie's trademark folk style, characterized by simple melodies and storytelling lyrics that focus on social justice and the experiences of the working class.
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Connection with Political MovementsThis song became synonymous with the labor movement and feminism during the mid-20th century. It has been adopted by several unions and women's rights movements as their anthem.
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Song InspirationThe song was inspired by real women involved in the labor movement at the time. It's significant because it provides an insight into the role of women in labor unions in the early 20th century.
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Place in Popular CultureOver the years, "Union Maid" has been sung at countless demonstrations, political rallies, and in many other public settings.
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Parodies and Versions"Union Maid" has been parodied and redone innumerable times, often with lyrics changed to suit the specific context or cause. For instance, in 1968, The Redwoods, a folk-rock band, recorded a version of "Union Maid" with new lyrics in support of the UFW grape boycott.
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Guthrie's LegacyThe song is just one example of the long-lasting impact of Woody Guthrie's socially-conscious music. He has influenced countless artists and continues to be a beloved figure in American music history.
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Song's Influence"Union Maid" is considered an iconic protest song and has influenced many subsequent anthems promoting labor rights. It continues to be sung in her honor and in respect for those fighting for workers' rights worldwide.
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Citation
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"Union Maid Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 20 Sep. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/419428/Woody+Guthrie/Union+Maid>.
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