Johnny Todd

Johnny Todd is a Liverpool folk song most famous as the “Theme from Z-Cars” and associated with Everton F.C. and Watford F.C.

The song is known through a collector of folk songs; Frank Kidson, who heard it from Liverpool school children. This version is by Bob Roberts, a folk singer who also happens to have been the last captain of a British commercial vessel operating under sail.

I guess that’s the kind of back story that really gives a rendition some clout!

Picture courtesy of The British Library – actually of Thames bargemen; but appropriate I thought.

The Longer the Waiting, the Sweeter the Kiss

It’s all about connections isn’t it. Anna Ternheim is a Swedish singer songwriter whose song “Quiet Night” was featured on the Swedish version of Wallander. (Previously featured here on Go Listen)

Her debut album “Somebody Outside” was fantastic; and she’s now onto the fifth; “Night Visitor”. The highlight for me is this terribly evocative duet with Dave Ferguson.

Written by Roger Cook and Pat Mclaughlin; who may well deserve further investigation.

More sea shanties to follow.

Title image courtesy of Festivalrykten