Tom Dooley

If you've listened to my music for a while, you know that I'm fascinated by murder ballads...particularly North Carolina-based murder ballads (Omie Wise, Little Sadie, etc.). Well, this one ticks both boxes. The Kingston Trio's 1958 version is probably the best-known, but I first heard it from Doc Watson, and I find that his rendition on 64's self-titled Vanguard release captures the eeriness of the narrative really well.

Anyway, this is based on a true story – sort of like the old-timey equivalent of a True Crime podcast, hah. In 1868, veteran Tom Dula (pronounced "Dooley"; think "Grand Old Opera" to "Opry") was hanged for the stabbing death of Laura Foster in Wilkes County, a case that received a fair degree of publicity (including in the New York Times!) due to its grisly nature. His final words were "Gentlemen, do you see this hand? I didn't harm a hair on the girl's head."...leading to speculation that he may have been covering for another lover.

This video is not sponsored by Dale's Pale Ale.

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Guitar: 1959 Harmony H-162
Mic: Warm Audio WA-47
Camera: Canon SL2 w/ 24mm f/2.8 lens

[markhudson]

Compared to Carson's age I'm a geezer. But when I hear other geezers complaining that there is no good music today what it really tells me is that they've stopped looking and listening. Thank you Carson!

[rainydaydiva]

I love this version of the song. I just watched “The Legend of Tom Dooley” starring Michael Landon, an old black and white film from 1959. Poor Tom, he was an innocent man. A very well done cover, Carson, anything you sing is very well done. You are an amazingly talented man. ❤

[ksukat]

Love the look on his face when the car horn goes right at the end of the song. Good music.

[Sarah_is_Spooky]

I have listened to this song so many times. It haunts me.

[mrgildons]

One of the best renditions I ever heard of this classic!

[magfor]

Very interesting interpretation of this song. The tempo is significantly slower then Doc Watson, You have sung it more as a lament and I think that interpretation is spot on. Well done.

[dogpatch]

The best performance of this classic that I've seen! Most musicians try to mimic the Doc Watson bluegrass style, squeezing in too many instruments and playing it too fast. Carson has slowed it down to a much more appropriate Kingston Trio like tempo. The spot on vocals and single guitar really elevate the song!

[NurseJoe]

I listen to this at least twice a day.

[islanderdraws]

I've LISTENED this song before, but today you actually made me HEAR the lyrics... ! Thanks Carson. 🙏🏼

[EarToTheGroundMusic]

Yet another exceptional rendition of a classic. I think I can speak for the peanut gallery when I say that a collection of "Carson sings the American songbook" would do very well, particularly in vinyl. Something to consider as you continue to develop this delightful repetoire.

[Cibby]

Last time I heard this song I went to see the Kingston trio....live..They were young so was I. Good version Carson your a real talent.

[tahoemike]

Wow Carson. Wow.
I haven't heard this version, but I won't forget it. You are a great storyteller in your songs, which is a very special talent. Did I say Wow?!?

[secretagent]

a STUNNING performance. the crystal clear sound production, lyrics i have never heard before, a chance to properly hear your guitar work (which is often hidden behind Josh's massive guitar talents), and that whiskey smooth voice. BRAVO

[thomasmoores]

Another satisfying tune by Carson McKee. I never tire of your music.

[bradmaier]

Dear Carson,
Another amazing performance. I am really hoping that this pandemic ends and live shows resume. I would love to see you and Josh in Brooklyn for one of your shows. Perhaps the outdoor theater at Jones Beach would be a great venue once it opens
What talented musicians you, Josh and all of the people you peform with are just so fantastic!
Thank you for helping so many get through these rough times.
Brad Maier
Babylon, NY

[bobh]

Living in North Carolina adjacent to the areas where the events occurred lends a new perspective just as Carson's rendition reveals so much more than that of the Kingston Trio's glossy version when I was a boy.

[funboyone]

I don't know why I got a notification for this. But after one listen I immediately subscribed to your channel

[marclattoni]

Nicely done and the B&W video adds an extra touch of authenticity.

[larryfisher]

When the Kingston Trio did this I was kid in about 2nd grade. Still remember it being played on our old RCA Victor radio in the living room. Brings back some good memories. Thanks.

[blonchie]

I always think that these songs were written specifically for you! You are very inspiring. I was always fascinated by American Country Music as a child! I'm Spanish although I've been living in UK for a long time now and I still think this music is the most beautiful music ever written! Keep bring them on please! Have a beautiful day!