The last song Eva recorded

The last song that Eva recorded was ‘Waly, Waly’. It can be found on the Eva By Heart album which Chris Biondo compiled after Eva’s death. It is a sad traditional based on the story of Lady Barbara Erskine, who married the second Marquis of Douglas in 1670 but who was falsely accused of adultery by a former lover. Chris wasn’t initially fond of the tune or the recording they had, but since it was one of Eva’s favourites he agreed, as a gesture of respect, to put it on the album.

Eva and Chris

They had originally intended to use the recording that was made for Live At Blues Alley, but that one proved unsatisfactory so Chris had his work cut out. First he removed Eva’s vocals and gave the two parts to Lenny Williams, who composed a new score digitally using Celtic drums, cymbal swells and strings. The song opens and closes with the sound of rolling waves, wind and seagulls. Even a harp, artificial bagpipes and an electronic oboe can be heard in the distance. ‘Waly, Waly’ is now one of Chris’ favourite tracks.

Eva By Heart

Waly, Waly

When cockleshells turn to silvery bells

Then will my love return to me

When roses bloom in the wintry snow

Then will my love return to me

Oh waly waly love be Bonnie

And bright as a jewel when it’s first new

But love grows old and waxes cold

And fades away like morning dew

There is a ship it’s sailing the sea

It’s loaded high and deep can be

But not so deep as my love for you

I know not if I’ll sink or swim

Oh waly waly love be Bonnie

And bright as a jewel when it’s first new

But love grows old and waxes cold

And fades away like morning dew

3 responses to “The last song Eva recorded”

1. Michael Cross says:

   2 October 2022 at 03:04

   She was amazing! Chris was one of the coolest dudes I’ve ever met…and Eva sings like an angel

   Reply
2. Beverley Dick says:

   14 July 2017 at 19:26

   Would love to join the fan club
   Eva was and is the …Best female Artist ..
   So pure in voice and spirit.

   Reply