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