"Donkey Riding" is a traditional work song or sea shanty originally sung in Canada, Scotland and the Northeastern United States. It has also become popular as a children's song.[1] The earliest written record of the song dates to 1857.[2] The tune and words are an adaptation of "Highland Laddie".[2] It is generally, but not universally,[1] agreed that the "donkey" of the song title is a reference to the steam donkey, a kind of general-purpose steam engine.[3] Stan Hugill, a sea-music historian, said that he had been informed that the song was also sung in the Gulf Ports as well as being popular at sea.[4]
- ^ a b Douglas Coombes (1974) Songs for singing together: fifty songs from around the world taken from the BBC's music programme for schools 'Singing Together' , BBC Publications
- ^ a b CSU Fresno Ballad Index[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Alliance Music Publications Inc. - Donkey Riding". Alliancemusic.com. Retrieved 2013-08-31.
- ^ Shantypedia[permanent dead link]