EMRY ARTHUR
Emry Arthur was a Kentucky-born singer, guitarist and harmonica player whose recordings rank among the finest examples of early Appalachian country music. Best known for his influential version of "Man of Constant Sorrow," he possessed a warm, expressive voice and an understated guitar style that perfectly suited traditional ballads, blues and sentimental songs. Between 1928 and 1935 he recorded for Vocalion, Paramount and Decca, leaving behind a small but highly regarded body of work.
SHE LIED TO ME
Recorded c. October–November 1929 – Grafton, Wisconsin
Matrix L-108-1 - Paramount 3237
"She Lied to Me" is a sentimental song of betrayal and lost love, performed with nothing more than Arthur's voice and guitar. His restrained delivery and fluid accompaniment place the emotional weight on the lyrics rather than vocal display, illustrating the intimate style that characterizes many of his finest recordings.
The song follows a consistent accompaniment pattern. The numbers above each phrase indicate where the melody changes, making it easier to follow the vocal line.
