Hallock Hill

On the night of the last presidential debate, this song seems appropriate. Bill Fay’s “Be Not So Fearful,” released on his self-titled debut in 1971, has become something of a cult anthem thanks to its inclusion in Wilco’s live sets. The song also fit beautifully into Sam Jones’s documentary on Wilco, I Am Trying to Break Your Heart (2002). In the immediate post-911 world, the song seemed a prayer for hope. It still does today, and we perhaps need to heed its advice even more.

Fay remained largely in obscurity until his promotion by Jim O’Rourke and Jeff Tweedy. It is good to see that it has come back into circulation. Look for his CDs at Insound.

Be Not So Fearful


Be not so nervous
Be not so frail
Someone watches you
You won’t fail

Be not so nervous
Be not so frail
Be not so nervous
Be not so frail

Be not so sorry
For what you have done
You must forget them now
It’s done

And when you wake up
You will find that you can run
Be not so sorry
For what you have done

Be not so fearful
Be not so pale
Someone watches you
You won’t leave the rails

Be not so fearful
Be not so pale
Be not so fearful
Be not so pale

You must forget them now
It’s done

And when you wake up
You will find that you can run
Be not so sorry
For what you have done

Be not so sorry
For what you have done

words: Bill Fay