Exploring the Forgotten World of Pirate Shanties: Myths and Reality

Have you ever heard of pirate shanties? Much like legendary tales of buried treasure and the siren songs off the coast, these shanties are often romanticized in popular fiction and media. But what exactly are pirate shanties, and do they even exist in reality? In this article, we dive into the world of maritime music and shed light on the myths and realities surrounding these unique songs.

The Myth and Reality of Pirate Shanties

Myth: Many believe that pirate shanties are songs that were created and sung exclusively by pirates. However, the truth is that shanties—those catchy, rhythmic songs that were used to synchronize the work on ships—were actually shared practices among seafarers, both pirates and non-pirates alike. These songs were used during work such as hauling on ropes, rowing the ship, and managing the sails.

Reality: If you want to hear pirate shanties, you might actually have to listen to the songs sung by merchant mariners or by naval ships. On board a ship considered by the British Navy to be a "pirate vessel," such as the USS Constitution, the crew would often sing 'The Star-Spangled Banner' or other patriotic tunes. It is rare to find authentic pirate shanties in their original form, but some maritime music enthusiasts and researchers have reconstructed these songs based on historical accounts and other sources.

Types of Shanties

Shanties are divided into several categories based on their function. The most common categories include:

1. Loading Shanties

These shanties were sung when loading or unloading cargo. An example of a loading shanty is 'Mary Anne.' The rhythm of the song would help workers coordinate their efforts, making it easier to move heavy goods from the ship or onto the ship.

2. Hauling Shanties

These songs were used for physically demanding tasks such as pulling on ropes or lifting anchors. 'Fifteen Men on the Dead Man's Chest' is a well-known hauling shanty that has a strong, rhythmic melody that helped sailors coordinate their efforts.

3. Rowing Shanties

Rowing shanties were used when rowing the ship. These songs helped sailors coordinate their rowing movements and keep a steady rhythm. 'The South African' is a classic example of a rowing shanty.

4. Sailor's Workout Shanties

These shanties were often used for exercises like jumping over the vessel or 'shanty walking.' 'Stevedore's Walk' is one such shanty that accompanied physical activity.

How to Experience Pirate Shanties Today

While it’s challenging to come across original pirate shanties, modern recordings offer a glimpse into this fascinating aspect of maritime history. There are several albums and YouTube channels dedicated to recreating and performing these songs in their historical context.

Recordings and Performed Versions: Many dedicated musicians have created modern renditions of shanties that capture the essence of these songs. For example, I can recommend albums such as 'Jolly Roger: The Shantyman Repertory Volume 1' by Ralph Rinzler and 'Shantyman 2' by Joe Collins, both of which offer excellent performances of these timeless songs.

Online Resources: The Internet has made it easier than ever to access these recordings. Websites like Maritime History Forum and Shantyman Archives provide comprehensive collections of shanties and give background information on their creation and usage.

Conclusion

While pirate shanties might not have existed in the manner portrayed in popular culture, the legacy of these songs remains vibrant today. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a maritime music lover, or simply interested in the unique culture of seafaring, shanties offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who navigated the high seas in the past.

So, the next time you’re aboard a ship—or just listening to some shanties—take a moment to appreciate the rich and complex history behind these songs. Whether it was the denizens of the seven seas or just seasoned sailors, these shanties remind us that every note of music carries with it a story from the past.