"Greensleeves" is an old English folk song from the Middle Ages, probably appearing in the late 16th century and eventually coming to North America with the English colonists. Though often associated with Christmas music, that is largely due to a 19th century English composer using the melody for his hymn, "What Child Is This," which became a popular Christmas carol. The song itself is based on a form of Italian composition which did not reach England until the Elizabethan period, well after the death of Henry VIII (he couldn't have composed it for Anne Boleyn, contrary to popular belief. Regardless of the song's ultimate origins, like all great folk music, the melodies and lyrics are changed and reused throughout history to create new compositions, such as the Christmas carol, "What Child is This?" or John Coltrane's jazz-based interpretation of the song.
The Weavers' version of "Greensleeves"
Christmas song, "What Child Is This?" sung by gospel singer Mahalia Jackson
Coltrane recorded the song twice in the 1960s, each time using a great bassline. This simple ancient folk song becomes a transcendent experience once Coltrane unlocks its harmonic complexities. McCoy Tyner's block chords and moving piano solos seemingly reveal the deep past of the tune and it's melodic minor beauty. Eric Dolphy and McCoy Tyner's arrangments for the big band backing Coltrane and the small group work well here, with the big band reduced to solely playing a few note pattern in the background to emphasize the harmony and evoke a majestic feel.
From Africa/Brass
Coltrane's live performance of the tune at the Village Vanguard in the future was quite similar to the aforementioned recording but shorter and without a large band backing the group. Tyner are here again on this on. McCoy Tyner's solo takes the song in some interesting directions as well, venturing far from the melody for some real beauty. All jazz musicians should incorporate folk songs into their standard repertoire!
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