"Dirty Old Town," though frequently performed by Irish musicians and often assumed to be an Irish folk song, was actually written by English songwriter Ewan MacColl in 1949. The song was created as part of a play called "Landscape with Chimneys" set in MacColl's hometown of Salford, near Manchester, England....
Kilgary Mountain (Whiskey in the Jar) – Irish Song Lyrics
"Whiskey in the Jar," also known as "Kilgary Mountain," stands as one of Ireland's most iconic folk songs, with roots stretching back to the 17th century. The song tells the tale of a highwayman who robs a military officer but is ultimately betrayed by his lover, a narrative that resonated...
All Through the Night – Irish Song Lyrics
"All Through the Night," known in Welsh as "Ar Hyd y Nos," is actually a Welsh folk song that has been mistakenly attributed to Irish origins over time. The melody dates back to at least the 18th century, with the earliest printed version appearing in Edward Jones's "Musical and Poetical...
Lakes of Ponchartrain – Irish Song Lyrics
"The Lakes of Pontchartrain," despite its Irish folk music associations, actually originated in America during the mid-19th century. The song tells the story of an Irish immigrant or traveler who finds himself stranded near the Lakes of Pontchartrain in Louisiana, where he falls in love with a Creole or Cajun...
Erin Go Bragh – Irish Song Lyrics
"Erin Go Bragh," a patriotic Irish anthem whose title translates to "Ireland Forever," emerged during the tumultuous period of Irish nationalism in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The phrase itself became a rallying cry for Irish independence movements, particularly associated with the United Irishmen rebellion of 1798. The...