In 1913 Daniel Robles wrote a play named El Condor Pasa (The Condor Goes By). The story was set in the Cerro de Pasco mines of Peru.
The play showed the struggle miners had surviving working conditions and corrupt mine owners. The symbolism of the play being-the Condor flying away to freedom-like the miners longed to do.
El Condor Pasa the title song was a huge hit. It was an instrumental and became popular worldwide. In 1970 Paul Simon wrote lyrics to go with the music. Simon and Garfunkel released the song on their 1970 album Bridge Over Troubled Water.
Hope you enjoyed the song. Since I sort of made a request by going back to the first Pickin & Grinnin spot-I thought some of you might have a song you’d like to hear. If you do, leave me a comment and I’ll see if Paul knows it.
Tipper
Beautiful song. it’s great that you reposted it so all the newer folks could hear it.—Is that Mandolin Man and guitar Man—Love them both as well as Pap and Paul!
Lovely, thanks for bringing this one back! I love knowing the story behind the song. Requests – maybe Danny Boy for my mom, she’d love to hear that, and I could sit her down and let her watch. That’s always been her favorite song.
You’re blogging on dial up? That’s comittment. The song was beautiful.
Tipper: This was a great post for those of us new to your sight. I bet the older visitors enjoyed it also.
I love this post! The photos, the music, and the writing — it’s a joy to open this page and dive right in!
Blessings!
Lacy
This has always been one of my favorite songs. I never knew the back story on it. That makes it even more beautiful and mournful. I am always drawn to the sounds and stories of those trudging along: those trodden on. This world has made status and class so important, but I have to believe in the end those who consider themselves better will see and feel how mistaken they are. The music of this song makes me ponder the importance and beauty of every heart and mind, especially those forgotten and passed by.
And I was going to make this one short and sweet lol. That’s what you do to me Tipper, make me ponder. Have a great Sunday. Tell the boys thanks again for this beautiful song!
Love Stacy
Yay! Beautiful music and a beautiful song. Thanks for the history behind it. I had no idea. I love stuff like that, although I tend to be more up on the history of old hymns than anything else. Ditto on the James Taylor – such color in his voice.
As for a request, I humbly request my favorite!! A traditional Irish ballad, “Molly Malone.”
I had to listen to this 4 times before I could post my comment. Said this before … Paul looks and sounds so much like James Taylor. The guys always play so well together and I enjoy hearing them.
Love the music of the Kingston Trio, especially Where Have All The Flowers Gone? and Tom Dooley. Maybe Paul knows those. Would love to hear their interpretation of them. xxoo
Hi Tipper,
I love it! Give Pap a hug from me, he just makes me smile from ear to ear.
As for a request, does Paul know
“That Good Old Gospel Ship”? I can’t remember who sang it, but I could find out if needed.
Beautiful. While my family never played string instruments, we often gathered around the piano together and sang. I LOVE this sound, this music. This is simply perfection. Family harmony, the way voices blend is just divine.
I echo what the previous folks have commented. Thanks for inviting me in to the circle of music and love.
I had no idea the story behind the song. I think the miners are still protesting in Peru today.
This is my very favorite, Tipper. It makes me cry (good tears!) when I watch your family play it together. What I wouldn’t give to be in that living room with them with my bamboo flute from Peru … why do we have to live so far from one another? š
I love anything Simon and Garfunkel…but no special requests. I watched and enjoyed this video all over again. One of my favorites here and the first I heard when I began to read your blog. It still warms my heart to see your family playing and singing together.
How beautiful Tipper, I loved it. Happy Saturday!