Little Joe

Written by: [Unknown]
Publication date: 1866
Language: English
Comments: aka "Darling Little Joe". Song dates back to at least 1866 when sheet music titled "Death of Little Joe" was published. The sheet music credited V.E. Marsten as composer with no mention of the lyricist. In 1876 another set of sheet music was published crediting Charles E. Addison. The Carter Family recorded it on May 8, 1934 as "Darling Little Joe" (and again on June 8, 1938, as "Little Joe"). Their 1934 recording wasn't issued until 1965, while their 1938 recording was released in 1939. A.P. Carter registered the work so it is often incorrectly assumed to be their original.

Lyrics start -
What will the birds do, mother, in the spring
The little brown birds around the door
Licensing: Request a synchronization license

Originals

The originals are not known to the SecondHandSongs editors. If you have more information, contact us.