Stephen Foster

Composer

Stephen Foster was a 19th-century American songwriter known for his influential compositions that capture themes of love and humanity.

Born
July 4, 1826
Died
January 13, 1864
Quotes
5
Rank
#5234

About Stephen Foster

Stephen Foster — Life and Legacy

Stephen Foster, often hailed as the father of American music, made significant contributions to the genre with his heartfelt songs that resonate with themes of love and humanity. His work, particularly pieces like 'Oh! Susanna' and 'Camptown Races,' reflects a deep understanding of human emotions and social contexts of his time. Foster's lyrics often reveal a poignant blend of joy and sorrow, as seen in 'I dream of Jeanie with the light brown hair,' which expresses longing and nostalgia. Through his music, Foster challenged the norms of his era by bringing the experiences of everyday people to the forefront, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the emotions conveyed in his songs. His ability to capture the essence of human experience has left a lasting impact on American music, making his works timeless. Today, Foster's quotes and lyrics continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring nature of love and the shared human experience.

Quote collection

Stephen Foster quotes

5 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Stephen Foster Composer
Popular

"Beautiful dreamer, wake unto me, starlight and dewdrop are waiting for thee."

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Stephen Foster Composer
Popular

"I sought to reform minstrelsy among refined people by making words suitable to their taste, instead of the trashy and really offensive words which belong to some songs of that order. ... Some of my songs should be performed in a pathetic, not a comic style."

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Stephen Foster Composer
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"You may wonder, 'How can I leave it all behind if I am just coming back to it? How can I make a new beginning if I simply return to the old? The answer lies in the return. You will not come back to the 'same old thing. What you return to has changed because you have changed. Your perceptions will be altered. You will not incorporate into the same body, status, or world you left behind. The river has been flowing while you were gone. Now it does not look like the same river."

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Stephen Foster Composer
Popular

"Gone are the days when my heart was young and gay, Gone are my friends from the cotton fields away, Gone from the earth to a better land I know, I hear their gentle voices calling Old Black Joe."

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Stephen Foster Composer
Popular

"Dear Sir: I will wish to establish my name as the best Ethiopian songwriter. But I am not encouraged in undertaking this as long as 'The Old Folks At Home' stares me in the face with another's name on it."

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