Smithsonian Folkways’ latest addition to its lauded Classic Series is Classic English and Scottish Ballads from Smithsonian Folkways (from the Francis James Child Collection), a 21-track compilation of some of the most influential and important songs of all time. 305 in all, these ballads sometimes referred to as the “Child Ballads” were collected by the 19th-century scholar Francis James Child. Rather than becoming dusty artifacts, they continue to be living songs and touchstones for the folk genre, featuring timeless and exciting themes – from murder and ghosts to jealousy and unrequited love.

Classic English and Scottish Ballads introduces listeners to these traditional songs, pulling from the expansive Smithsonian Folkways collection. The album was curated by Folkways archivist Jeff Place and features an introduction by renowned writer, folksinger, and songwriter Scott Alarik.

Learn more and purchase here.