“Shenandoah” stands as a deeply cherished American folk song with roots stretching back to the early 19th century. Its origins are often traced to French voyageurs navigating the Missouri River, and it first appeared in print in the April 1876 edition of The New Dominion Monthly. Captain Robert Chamblet Adams penned an article titled “Sailor Songs” in this issue, which included the lyrics to “Shenandoah”. By the 1880s, the song had gained significant traction among sailors, evolving into a popular sea shanty, a type of work song that accompanied their labor. Its enduring appeal led to appearances in iconic films such as Shenandoah (1965) and How the West Was Won (1962), introducing it to wider audiences. Furthermore, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s rendition graced the closing credits of the 1995 movie Nixon, showcasing its versatility and timeless quality.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s connection to “Shenandoah” goes beyond film soundtracks. Notably, when the choir commemorated the 10th anniversary of 9/11 with a special performance, “Shenandoah” was chosen as the opening piece. The special featured narration by the esteemed journalist and music enthusiast, Tom Brokaw. Brokaw’s personal connection to the song is profound. In a radio interview, he expressed a desire for “Shenandoah” to be played at his funeral, confessing his long-standing love for it as a choral work. Initially, like many, Brokaw believed the song was about the Shenandoah Valley, yet the lyrics mentioning the “wide Missouri” sparked his curiosity. His research unveiled the song’s true narrative: it originated among boatmen on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers and tells the poignant tale of a man longing for the daughter of Shenandoah, a prominent Iowa chief. For Brokaw, the song resonates deeply with his own background, evoking the Missouri River of his upbringing and the expansive Great Plains.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s dedication to “Shenandoah” is evident in their consistent performances over the years. The song is also featured on their 2004 album, America’s Choir: Favorite Songs, Hymns & Anthems, which was released alongside the documentary America’s Choir, further solidifying its place in their repertoire and American musical heritage.
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to hear you
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to hear you
Away, we’re bound away, across the wide Missouri
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Away, we’re bound away, across the wide Missouri
Tis seven long years, since last I saw you
Away you rolling river
Tis seven long years, since last I saw you
Away, we’re bound away across the wide Missouri
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Away, you rolling river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Away, we’re bound away, across the wide Missouri
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to see you
Across the wide Missouri
Oh, Shenandoah, oh, Shenandoah, oh, Shenandoah
