[Fast Moving Angel]

Sloop John B--Blind Blake Higgs (1952)

Wow!! That was great! Also, there was a link on the side to Jimmie Rodgers' version as well, recorded in 1960 -- you could definitely see (hear?) similarities between Jimmmie's version and the Beach Boys' cover. Bet that's what Brian Wilson was listening to, prior to doing the BBs' arrangement.

Thanks for this. I learned something about one of my favorite songs!

[Fiji Hill]

This one by the Weavers may be the first version to be a bestseller. I believe Gordon Jenkins' orchestra is accompanying the Weavers, who play their own acoustic stringed instruments.

The Wreck of the John B--The Weavers (1950)