We can all sing that old song, ‘Captain Kidd’, but are we sure of the tune? Many sing “Oh, my name is Captain Kidd, as I sailed, as I sailed” quite differently. What is the correct tune is perplexing for many, as quite different lyrics were printed with the subtitle “To the Tune of Captain Kidd.” This forthcoming book transcribes over fifty different versions and provides a thorough analysis of each. A valuable resource for musicians, this collection offers arrangements diverse in mood: from metal, humour, humour, to gospel. However, this compelling analysis by author David Kidd examines many melodic proposals based on Kidd’s ancient and medieval precedents.
In Wales, in midwinter, a church ceremony is held called the "Pilgein" Beginning at 3 am a procession with candles enters singing this ancient song in medieval mode.
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Musicologist Bruce Olson comments, “Exactly what tune was known as Captain Kidd in the 18th century has been fuzzy, as the broadsheet of his song did not carry the tune and lacks circumstantial evidence.” Now you can decide which should be the best “tune of Captain Kidd”.