seashanties

Seashanties are a genre of folk music that originated in the coastal regions of the United States, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The term "seashanty" refers to songs traditionally sung by sailors, fishermen, and shipbuilders while working at sea or in maritime-related occupations. These songs often reflect the hardships, camaraderie, and daily life of those involved in maritime labor.

Seashanties typically feature simple melodies and repetitive, easy-to-sing lyrics, making them well-suited for group singing. The themes commonly include nautical adventures, storms at sea, shipbuilding, and the challenges of long voyages. Many of these songs were passed down orally, evolving over time through oral tradition. Some well-known examples include "Drunken Sailor," "The Ash Grove," and "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald."

The genre has roots in both British and American maritime traditions, with influences from Irish, Scottish, and African-American folk music. Seashanties were particularly popular among the working-class sailors of the 19th century, who used them to pass the time and maintain morale during grueling work. The songs often had a call-and-response structure, encouraging group participation.

In the 20th century, seashanties experienced a revival, partly due to the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s. Artists like Pete Seeger and The Weavers helped popularize these songs among a broader audience. Today, seashanties remain a beloved part of folk music, often performed at festivals, sea shanties concerts, and maritime events. They continue to be celebrated for their historical significance and enduring appeal as a reflection of life at sea.