Folk music has always been a treasure trove of tales about brave heroes and their daring escapades.
Even though today’s world is dominated by technology, there’s still a special place for the timeless art of storytelling through song.
The BBC is shining a spotlight on this tradition with a new radio series that will honor everyday heroes through folk music, marking the 200th anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Take Vicky Murphy, for example.
When she was nine months pregnant and trapped by a rising tide in Cornwall, she could hardly imagine that her dramatic rescue would one day be immortalized in a song.
As her husband, Marc, struggled to help her climb to safety, a surfer called for RNLI assistance, saving them from a dire situation.
Folk singer Martyn Joseph has turned their ordeal into a song called “Chapel Porth Beach,” capturing the communal spirit and resilience that folk music celebrates.
Then there’s Al Kassim, who was on a sailing trip gone awry when the RNLI came to his rescue.
Moved by the experience, he became a volunteer at one of the UK’s busiest RNLI stations.
To his surprise, the famous Fisherman’s Friends band, known for their deep ties to the RNLI, wrote a song about him.
Al was particularly touched when he saw how his volunteer work had inspired others, and he shared his excitement when the song was performed in his honor.
Breaking New Ground
Anna Heslop from Cullercoats is another remarkable story.
As the first female helm in her station’s 170-year history, she’s broken barriers and saved lives, from rescuing a stranded party of 11 to helping a newborn baby in distress.
Her story is celebrated in a song by Lady Nade and Boo Hewerdine, highlighting her pioneering spirit and dedication.
Beyond the RNLI: Unconventional Heroes
Not all the tales in the series are tied to the RNLI. Emma Neave-Webb, for instance, found her calling in marine rescue after hearing a talk about whales.
Her efforts in Orkney, including the successful refloating of a killer whale and aiding a stranded pod of pilot whales, earned her a song written by Kris Drever.
Emma’s story is a testament to the extraordinary impact of passion and dedication.
A Personal Journey
Jeff Allen’s story is deeply personal. A former soldier battling depression, he found solace in sea kayaking. His journey around Japan became a form of therapy and helped him reclaim his life.
His experience has been turned into a song called “Flow,” written by Cara Dillon and Sam Lakeman.
Jeff views this song as an anthem for those who’ve faced their own struggles and found healing through nature.
The Timeless Appeal of Folk
For songwriter Sam Lakeman, telling Jeff’s story reaffirms why folk music has endured through the ages.
Folk music is about the people, their voices, and their experiences.
The series on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, titled “21st Century Folk 2024,” continues this tradition, offering fresh, heartfelt tributes to modern-day heroes.
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