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Down in a Coal Mine

Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
Down in a Coal Mine

Joe Glazer’s (1918–2006) musical efforts on behalf of workers and union struggles earned him the nickname “Labor’s Troubadour.” In 1970, he founded Collector Records, primarily to produce records supportive of the struggles of working men and women.

The majority of the songs on this recording were originally collected from miners by the preeminent folklorist of the coal mines, George Korson, to whom this recording is dedicated. The first half of the recording was made in 1962, with Charlie Byrd playing lead guitar. The second half was recorded before a live audience at the 1964 United Mine Workers of America Convention, held in Miami, Florida.

The liner notes provide background information about each song, as well as additional information about George Korson.

Track Listing

101
Down in a Coal Mine
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
03:46  
102
My Sweetheart's the Mule in the Mines
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
00:45  
103
The Young Lady Who Married a Mule Driver
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
01:31  
104
When the Breaker Starts up Full Time
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
02:27  
105
Jolly Wee Miner Men
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
01:27  
106
The Death of Mother Jones
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
02:03  
107
The Old Miner's Refrain
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
04:17  
108
A Miner's Life
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
03:31  
109
The Ludlow Massacre
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
03:04  
110
Company Store
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
00:23  
111
Sixteen Tons
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
02:50  
112
Which Side Are You On?
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
02:37  
113
Union Man
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
02:33  
114
Drill Man Blues
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
01:38  
115
Coal Miner's Heaven
Joe Glazer, Charlie Byrd
03:31