Pastures of Plenty

sung by Patricia L. Cummings

written by Woody Guthrie

As a teenager, I first heard the songs of Woody Guthrie and I was impressed at how much his folk music contributed to my understanding of America. The word "folk" means of the common people. Above all, the migrant workers that he celebrates in this song, were and are, common folks.

We rely on migrant workers to pick the grapes that we set on our table as sparkling wine. Woody Guthrie (1912-1967), born in Okemah, Oklahoma, was ahead of his time in addressing many social issues, such as the migrant worker. He is perhaps best known for these so-called, "Dust Bowl Ballads."

Woody has passed on, and my own days are numbered. I pass this song on to you. Maybe, just maybe, you will remember us both for having spoken out for truth and justice.