O Brother Where Art Thou is a critically acclaimed film directed Joel and Ethan Coen, released in 2000. The movie is known for its unique blend of comedy, drama, and music, set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. One of the standout features of the film is its exceptional soundtrack, which features a combination of traditional folk, bluegrass, and gospel music. One of the most iconic songs from the film is “Man of Constant Sorrow,” which has become a fan favorite and a classic in its own right. In this article, we will explore the guitar tab for “Man of Constant Sorrow” and delve into five interesting facts about the song.
Guitar Tab for “Man of Constant Sorrow”:
“Man of Constant Sorrow” is a traditional American folk song that was popularized the Soggy Bottom Boys, a fictional band in the movie. The song is performed using the guitar, and here is a simplified tab for the main riff:
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A-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3–5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5–3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-
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Please note that this tab represents only a small part of the song and is intended as a starting point for beginners. To learn the complete song, it is advisable to refer to a more comprehensive guitar tab available online or in songbooks.
Interesting Facts about “Man of Constant Sorrow”:
1. Origin and Variations:
“Man of Constant Sorrow” is an old folk song with roots tracing back to the early 20th century. It has been performed various artists over the years, including the Stanley Brothers and Bob Dylan. The version featured in O Brother Where Art Thou is a reimagined rendition the Soggy Bottom Boys, a fictional band played accomplished musicians such as Dan Tyminski and Harley Allen.
2. Grammy Award-Winning Performance:
The Soggy Bottom Boys’ version of “Man of Constant Sorrow” gained significant recognition and acclaim. It won the Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals in 2001, showcasing the incredible talent and musicianship displayed in the film.
3. Traditional Lyrics with a Twist:
The lyrics of “Man of Constant Sorrow” have been altered in various versions throughout history. In O Brother Where Art Thou, the Coen brothers took creative liberty modifying the lyrics to better fit the story and characters. This adaptation adds a unique charm and personality to the song, making it a memorable part of the film.
4. Cross-Genre Appeal:
While “Man of Constant Sorrow” is considered a traditional folk song, its inclusion in O Brother Where Art Thou introduced the tune to a wider audience. The film’s popularity and critical success helped bridge the gap between different music genres, making the song accessible and appealing to fans of various musical styles.
5. Lasting Cultural Impact:
“Man of Constant Sorrow” became a cultural phenomenon after the release of O Brother Where Art Thou. It topped music charts, sparked renewed interest in traditional folk music, and influenced subsequent film soundtracks. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless quality and its ability to resonate with listeners across generations.
Common Questions about “Man of Constant Sorrow”:
1. Who originally wrote “Man of Constant Sorrow”?
“Man of Constant Sorrow” is a traditional folk song with no known original author. It has been passed down through generations and adapted various artists.
2. Can I learn to play “Man of Constant Sorrow” on acoustic guitar?
Yes, “Man of Constant Sorrow” can be played on acoustic guitar. The tab provided in this article is a simplified version of the main riff.
3. Are there any other notable versions of “Man of Constant Sorrow”?
Yes, the song has been performed many artists, including the Stanley Brothers, Bob Dylan, and the Soggy Bottom Boys.
4. Did the actors in O Brother Where Art Thou perform the music themselves?
While the actors lip-synced the performances in the film, the vocals were provided professional musicians.
5. What genre is “Man of Constant Sorrow”?
“Man of Constant Sorrow” is primarily considered a folk song, but it incorporates elements of bluegrass and gospel music as well.
6. Can I find the guitar tabs for “Man of Constant Sorrow” online?
Yes, you can find more comprehensive guitar tabs for “Man of Constant Sorrow” on various websites and in songbooks.
7. Is “Man of Constant Sorrow” difficult to play on guitar?
The difficulty of playing “Man of Constant Sorrow” on guitar depends on your skill level. The provided tab is a simplified version suitable for beginners.
8. Are there any other songs from O Brother Where Art Thou with guitar tabs available?
Yes, many other songs from the film have guitar tabs available online, including “I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow” and “In the Jailhouse Now.”
9. Are there any instrumental versions of “Man of Constant Sorrow” available?
Yes, instrumental versions of the song can be found, allowing guitarists to showcase their skills and interpretations.
10. Did “Man of Constant Sorrow” win any awards?
Yes, the Soggy Bottom Boys’ version of “Man of Constant Sorrow” won the Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals in 2001.
11. Can I find the sheet music for “Man of Constant Sorrow”?
Yes, sheet music for “Man of Constant Sorrow” is available in various formats, including piano and vocal arrangements.
12. Are there any notable covers of “Man of Constant Sorrow”?
Yes, many artists have covered “Man of Constant Sorrow,” including Rod Stewart, Alison Krauss, and Jack White.
13. Is “Man of Constant Sorrow” a difficult song to sing?
The difficulty of singing “Man of Constant Sorrow” depends on your vocal range and technique. It is advisable to practice and seek guidance if needed.
In conclusion, “Man of Constant Sorrow” is a beloved song from the film O Brother Where Art Thou, with a rich history and lasting cultural impact. Its guitar tab allows aspiring musicians to learn and play the song, while its interesting facts showcase its significance and enduring popularity. Whether you are a fan of traditional folk music, the film, or simply enjoy a catchy tune, “Man of Constant Sorrow” remains a timeless classic.