Today is National Paul Bunyan Day. Minnesota is one of several regions in North America that has embraced the folk tale of this mighty lumberjack and his blue ox, Babe. Head to the Minnesota cities such as Akeley, Bemidji, and Brainerd to find larger-than-life statues of Mr. Bunyan.

Maybe there’s a different mythical legend that you prefer, so we’re opening it up to all sorts of storytelling traditions today. This is an invitation to bring out the best songs that are inspired by, or mention, folklore stories.

For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, which songs tied to myths, legends, and folklore should we play?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played
Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros - Johnny Appleseed
Andrew Bird - Sisyphus
Crispian St. Peters - The Pied Piper
Sam Cooke - Cupid
Franz Ferdinand - Ulysses
Jefferson Airplane - White Rabbit
Tenacious D - Tribute (bonus)