Folk musician Olivia Chaney has gained renewed attention after her rendition of the 19th-century ballad “Dark Eyed Sailor” became a key element in Emerald Fennell‘s latest film adaptation of “Wuthering Heights.” Originally performed during a BBC Radio session in 2013, Chaney’s haunting cover underscores pivotal moments in the film, which features an original soundtrack primarily composed by pop artist Charli XCX.
The film, released in theaters recently, follows the tumultuous relationship between Cathy (played by Margot Robbie) and Heathcliff (portrayed by Jacob Elordi). Chaney’s cover of “Dark Eyed Sailor” plays as Cathy embarks on an emotional journey to wed Edgar (played by Shazad Latif), all while grappling with her feelings for Heathcliff. The ballad’s narrative—about a woman mourning a sailor lost at sea who returns in disguise—resonates deeply with Cathy’s internal conflict.
Chaney’s relationship with the song spans over a decade. She first learned it from Irish musician Matthew Ord during a performance in the late 2000s. Captivated by its story, she adapted it into her own style, performing it at various venues worldwide. “When I’m singing a folk song, there’s quite a lot of creativity and artistic license that comes in,” Chaney noted, emphasizing her desire to interpret the song authentically.
In 2013, her performance of “Dark Eyed Sailor” on the BBC marked a significant milestone in her career. “It felt like the beginning of me being me,” Chaney recalled, reflecting on her nerves and excitement as she transported her harmonium to the recording session. Despite the imperfections in her performance, the raw emotion captured that day ultimately found a home in Fennell’s adaptation.
When approached about including the song in the film, Chaney offered to record a new version. However, Fennell insisted on using the original, stating, “We’ve had this from the beginning of making the film. We need this.” Chaney recognized the value in the authenticity of that initial recording, recognizing it captured a moment of vulnerability in her life.
The final version used in the film features minimal orchestration, allowing Chaney’s voice to take center stage. On February 13, 2024, she released an official version of her cover, which is now available for streaming and purchase through Kartel Music Group. As one of her most beloved songs, “Dark Eyed Sailor” will be featured during her upcoming residency at Kings Place in London, starting on February 27, where she will perform alongside her new electric folk-rock band, News from Nowhere.
In addition to her performances, Chaney is working on a new album inspired by the English baroque composer Henry Purcell, with a tentative release set for November 2024. Now residing in Yorkshire, the setting of “Wuthering Heights,” Chaney finds her contribution to the film both “serendipitous and slightly strange.”
Reflecting on her journey, Chaney expressed a sense of fulfillment, noting, “It’s very full circle.” She has embraced her happiness, stating, “I think there’s still plenty to say. And my upcoming album, like ‘Dark Eyed Sailor,’ is music that’s lived with me all my life.” As she continues to explore her artistry, Chaney’s connection to the timeless themes of love and loss in her music remains a constant source of inspiration.
