Timeless classic

O Danny Boy

Lyrics by Fred E. Weatherley

 

O Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling From glen to glen and down the mountainside The summer's gone and all the leaves are falling 'Tis you, 'tis you must go and I must bide.

But come ye back when summer's in the meadow Or when the valley's hushed and white with snow 'Tis I'll be here in sunshine or in shadow O Danny boy, O Danny boy, I love you so

But if ye come and all the flowers are dying If I am dead, as dead I well may be, You'll come and find the place where I am lying And kneel and say an Ave there for me.

And I shall hear, though soft, your tread above me And all my grave shall warmer, sweeter be For you will bend and tell me that you love me And I will sleep in peace until you come to me.

This is a well-known song of almost dubious origins. Many have speculated where this song has originated and who was the composer, although it has often been credited as an old Irish folk song. The song, is also known as "Londonerry Air" - "Londonerry" being the old name of a place in Ireland. However scholars debated as the song's structure and form is not like those of typical irish songs or jigs. All in all, contributing to the mystery of this song.

In fact, the lyricist is unknown to many. Lyrics were penned more recently and was written by a lawyer to the music. Again, there are many tales of what the words mean. One story goes that this song is about a farmer with many sons. He lost most of his sons in battles and wars and when the time came for the youngest son to go, he sang this song to him. Another similar story is told, but it involves a mother instead of a father.

Nevertheless, the mystery surrounding its origins and the stories it tells did not deter many from singing and using the music for other songs and hymns. "O Danny Boy" continues to be loved and sung by many - both at formal occasions. churchese and even in concert halls. It's inspiring tune and beautiful lyrics continue to tug at the heart strings of people around the world today.