How Can I Keep From Singing

from In The Old Style by Ginger Ackley

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“How Can I Keep From Singing” was originally a Christian hymn written by an American Baptist minister, Robert Lowry, however it is debated whether he wrote the lyrics. It is not, as some have cited it, a traditional Quaker hymn, though I can certainly see the appeal to that group. The song dates from the late 1860's. It is one of a select group of songs included in both Protestant and Catholic hymnals. The song had an unusual revival in the 1950's when Doris Plenn of North Carolina wrote the final verse, which was taken up by Pete Seeger and other folk revivalists. The new words address the “witch hunts” of the McCarthy era and the blackballing of artists who expressed opinions that leaned to the left. Again, in 1991, the Irish artist, Enya, introduced the song to new audiences on her “Shepherd Moon” album and we have loved it once again.

Brittany Converse joins me on this beautiful song, playing an old violin or fiddle that was hand made by Elza Waller, my husband's great grandfather. That fiddle served as a wall decoration for well over 60 years. Until we asked Brittany to give it a try, no one had any idea if it would even play! The first notes that came out, however, were incredible. Another friend of ours, Joe Martin, has a violin shop in Canton, Ohio. He set about to restore the instrument and then Brittany played it for the recording of “How Can I Keep From Singing.” She brought out a feeling of sitting on a porch in the Appalachians, playing the fiddle while the rest of the family joined in the old hymn. I wouldn't be the least surprised if Elza Waller's spirit had peeked in to listen to the old fiddle that suddenly found its voice!

lyrics

My life goes on in endless song above earth's lamentations
I hear the sweet, though far-off hymn that hails a new creation.
Through all the tumult and the strife I hear its music ringing,
It sounds an echo in my soul: How can I keep from singing?

While though the tempest loudly roars I hear the truth, it liveth.
And though the darkness 'round me close, songs in the night it giveth.
No storm can shake my inmost calm while to that rock I'm clinging
Since Love is lord of heav'n and earth, how can I keep from singing?

When tyrants tremble in their fear and hear their death knell ringing
When friends rejoice both far and near, how can I keep from singing?
In prison cell and dungeon vile our thoughts to them are winging
When friends by shame are undefiled, how can I keep from singing?

credits

from In The Old Style, released March 1, 2012
Fiddle: Brittany Converse

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Ginger Ackley Cleveland, Ohio

Starting out in Texas, Ginger made it to Ohio as quickly as she could! Her music is full of magic and stories, seasoned with a love of folk and Celtic music. Her penny whistles often accompany her, too!

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