Folklorist Zora Neale Hurston Performs "How Do You Learn Most of Your Songs" (1939 Recording)
Channel: YourCousinJill
Date: 2023-04-25

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! Today we have an absolute treasure to share with you. Prepare to be captivated by the timeless talent of the remarkable folklorist, Zora Neale Hurston, as she takes us on a soul-stirring journey through her 1939 recording of "How Do You Learn Most of Your Songs."

Zora Neale Hurston, known primarily as a brilliant novelist, was also an anthropologist and a dedicated folklorist. Her unwavering passion for documenting the rich tapestry of African American culture in the South led her to collaborate with the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s. The result? An invaluable collection of recorded African American folktales and songs from Florida, now preserved in the State Archives of Florida. Among these treasures are the incredible performances of Zora Neale Hurston herself, comprising 21 tracks that span from soulful railroad work songs to joyful Bahamian children's tunes.

But let's explore the roots of this extraordinary artist. Born in Notasulga, Alabama, in 1891, Hurston's family moved to Eatonville, Florida when she was just a toddler. Growing up surrounded by the captivating stories of her neighbors, the tales of her family, and the enchanting fairy tales she devoured in books, Hurston's creative spirit flourished. However, her world was shattered when her mother passed away when she was only 13 years old, and her father soon remarried. These events strained her relationship with her father and fueled her longing for independence. In her autobiography, "Dust Tracks on a Road," Hurston expressed, "The strangest thing about it was that once I found the use of my feet, they took to wandering. I always wanted to go."

And go she did! Following her mother's passing, Zora Neale Hurston embarked on a lifelong journey of discovery, traversing different places and immersing herself in diverse cultures. Her wanderlust was the driving force behind her profound contributions to African American culture and folklore.

In this extraordinary video, we invite you to witness the sheer magic of Zora Neale Hurston's performance of "How Do You Learn Most of Your Songs." Her voice resonates with raw emotion, carrying the weight of generations and evoking a sense of deep connection. This soulful melody will transport you to another time and place, immersing you in the beauty of African American musical heritage.

Join us in celebrating the immense impact of Zora Neale Hurston's unique perspective on African American culture and folklore. By sharing this video with your friends and hitting that "Like" button, you're helping to ensure that her legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.