“Angeline the Baker” is a well-loved traditional American old-time tune, originally composed by Stephen Foster in 1850 as a sentimental song titled “Angelina Baker.” Over time, it evolved into an instrumental fiddle tune, becoming a staple in old-time and bluegrass music. The melody is bright and catchy, making it a favorite at jam sessions and dances. Though the original lyrics told the story of a man lamenting the loss of his love, modern versions are typically played as an instrumental, showcasing the tune’s lively and enduring appeal in American folk traditions.
Angeline the Baker
Key
G Maj.
Tune Type
Polka
History
“Angeline the Baker” traces its origins to the 1850 song “Angelina Baker,” composed by Stephen Foster, one of America’s most famous 19th-century songwriters. Foster wrote the song for minstrel shows, a common form of entertainment at the time, and it was originally performed with lyrics telling the story of a man lamenting the loss of his beloved Angelina Baker, who had either left or passed away. The song was published as part of Foster’s collection for the Christy Minstrels, a well-known minstrel troupe.
.Over time, the tune took on a life of its own, particularly in old-time and Appalachian string band music. As it was passed down through generations of musicians, the lyrics were largely abandoned, and the melody became a popular instrumental fiddle and banjo tune. The tune’s catchy, uplifting nature made it a favorite at dances and jam sessions, especially in Southern Appalachian and bluegrass traditions.
.Today, “Angeline the Baker” remains a staple in old-time, bluegrass, and folk music circles, often played in D major and featuring a driving rhythm perfect for clogging and flatfoot dancing. The tune has been recorded and performed by countless musicians and continues to be a favorite in American roots music. Despite its minstrel show origins, the instrumental version has endured as a beloved part of the traditional repertoire, keeping its lively and timeless melody alive in sessions and festivals across the country.
Also Known As
- Angelina Baker (original title by Stephen Foster)
- Angeline Baker
- Angelina the Baker
Lyrics
Verse 1:
Angelina Baker lives on the village green,
The way I always loved her beats all you ever seen.
Chorus:
Angelina Baker, age about sixteen,
The way I always loved her beats all you ever seen.
Verse 2:
Angelina Baker, her head is like a ball,
Her face is like a coffee pot, her nose is like a hall.
(Chorus repeats)
Verse 3:
She left me and she told me that she’d be back soon,
But she never meant to come again and left me all in ruin.
(Chorus repeats)
Verse 4:
I’ve seen my Angelina in the springtime and the fall,
And in the winter when the snow began to fall.
(Chorus repeats)
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