“On Top of Old Smoky” meaning

"On Top of Old Smoky" narrates the heartbreak and longing caused by a lost love.


“On Top of Old Smoky” definitions

Word backwards nO“ poT fo dlO ”ykomS
Part of speech The part of speech of the phrase "On Top of Old Smoky" is a prepositional phrase. In this phrase, "on" is a preposition, "top" is the object of the preposition, and "Old Smoky" is the object of the preposition.
Syllabic division On Top of Old Smoky On / Top / of / Old / Smoky
Plural The plural of the song title "On Top of Old Smoky" remains the same because it is a proper noun.
Total letters 17
Vogais (2) o,o
Consonants (13) o,n,t,p,f,l,d,s,m,k,y

“On Top of Old Smoky” is a traditional folk song that originated in the Southern Appalachian region of the United States. The song is also known by other titles such as “On Top of Old Smokey” or “On Top of Old Smoky All Covered with Snow”. It has been passed down through generations and has been recorded by various artists over the years.

Origin of the Song

The exact origins of “On Top of Old Smoky” are unclear, as is the case with many folk songs. Some believe that it dates back to the early 19th century, while others suggest that it may have evolved from older English or Scottish ballads. The song’s popularity grew in the early 20th century through recordings and performances by artists such as The Weavers and Burl Ives.

Lyrics and Theme

The lyrics of “On Top of Old Smoky” typically tell the story of a lost love or the longing for a distant partner. The song’s narrator often reflects on past memories of their relationship while lamenting its end. The haunting melody and melancholic lyrics have resonated with listeners for generations, making it a staple in the folk music genre.

Legacy and Influence

“On Top of Old Smoky” has become a well-known and beloved folk song, not only in the United States but also around the world. Its simple yet poignant lyrics, paired with a memorable melody, have made it a favorite for artists to cover and reinterpret. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal and ability to evoke emotions in listeners.

In conclusion, “On Top of Old Smoky” stands as a classic example of a traditional folk song that has stood the test of time. Its origin may be shrouded in mystery, but its impact on music and culture is undeniable. Whether sung around a campfire or performed on a concert stage, this song continues to captivate audiences with its bittersweet tale of love and loss.


“On Top of Old Smoky” Examples

  1. Singing "On Top of Old Smoky" around the campfire is a classic camping tradition.
  2. The children performed a lively rendition of "On Top of Old Smoky" at the school talent show.
  3. The hikers reached the peak and sang "On Top of Old Smoky" to celebrate their accomplishment.
  4. The old folk song "On Top of Old Smoky" has been passed down through generations.
  5. The band played a jazzy version of "On Top of Old Smoky" at the music festival.
  6. As the sun set, the cowboys sang "On Top of Old Smoky" to their cattle out on the range.
  7. During the road trip, the friends sang "On Top of Old Smoky" to pass the time.
  8. At the family reunion, everyone joined in singing "On Top of Old Smoky" as a tribute to their heritage.
  9. The choir practiced their harmonies for the upcoming performance of "On Top of Old Smoky".
  10. The radio station played a new remix of "On Top of Old Smoky" that became an instant hit.


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  • Updated 06/04/2024 - 23:37:54