“Pine Barren Blues” is a song written and performed by Paul Evans Pedersen Jr. The song is a haunting ballad that tells the story of a lost and alone man in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a densely forested area known for its history, folklore, and mystique. Stella Mrowicki’s cover is a beautiful and haunting cover.

Stella Mrowicki’s cover of “Pine Barren Blues”
The song’s lyrics are poignant and emotional, conveying a deep longing and despair as the narrator searches for a way out of the wilderness. The haunting melody and soulful vocals create a powerful and emotionally resonant atmosphere that draws the listener in.
The song has become a classic among folk and acoustic music fans, and it is often cited as an example of Pedersen’s songwriting prowess. “Pine Barren Blues” has been covered by several artists over the years, including Stella Mrowicki.
Stella Mrowicki’s “Pine Barren Blues” cover is a haunting and captivating rendition of the original song. From the moment the track begins, Mrowicki’s vocals draw the listener in, conveying a deep sense of emotion and longing that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics.
The stripped-down instrumentation adds to the raw, organic feel of the track, allowing Mrowicki’s voice to take center stage. The acoustic guitar provides a steady, rhythmic backbone to the song, while subtle slide guitar and harmonica touches add depth and texture.
What’s particularly impressive about Mrowicki’s cover is how she stays true to the original’s spirit while adding her unique interpretation. Her vocal performance is both vulnerable and powerful, conveying a sense of deep connection to the lyrics that are both genuine and moving.
The Jersey Devil
“Pine Barren Blues” is a timeless song that captures the spirit of the New Jersey Pine Barrens and the struggles of those who find themselves lost in its depths. The combination of haunting lyrics and soulful vocals makes it a powerful and emotionally resonant ballad that continues to captivate audiences today.
The lyrics below tell a story about the Jersey Devil.
“they say the old Leeds woman,
She bore a child from Hell.
After his birth, he took wings on,
And flew out into the night,
They say you’ll still hear him screaming’,
When the conditions are right.
I swear they’re true,
These Pine Barren Blues”
The Pine Barrens of New Jersey is the setting for many legends and myths, one of the most famous of which is the legend of the Jersey Devil. According to the legend, the Jersey Devil is a mythical creature that is said to inhabit the Pine Barrens, with sightings and stories dating back to the 18th century.

While the song “Pine Barren Blues” by Paul Evans Pedersen Jr. does not directly reference the Jersey Devil, it is set in the same location. It captures the same sense of mystery and isolation that is often associated with the legend. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of being lost and alone in the dense forest, which is a common theme in stories and legends about the Pine Barrens and the Jersey Devil.
In some ways, “Pine Barren Blues” can be seen as a reflection of the deeper fears and anxieties that are associated with the legend of the Jersey Devil. The song captures the sense of being lost and alone in an eerie and unfamiliar landscape, which is a common theme in many stories and myths about the Pine Barrens and the creatures that are said to inhabit it.
Overall, while “Pine Barren Blues” by Paul Evans Pedersen Jr. is not related to the legend of the Jersey Devil, it captures the same sense of mystery and isolation often associated with the Pine Barrens the folklore that surrounds it.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, Stella Mrowicki’s cover of “Pine Barren Blues” is a beautifully crafted tribute to the original song. Her soulful vocals and stripped-down instrumentation create a captivating and emotionally resonant atmosphere that will leave an impression on listeners. If you’re a fan of acoustic music and heartfelt lyrics, this cover is worth a listen.