Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Boy oh boy


Originally written by an Englishman living in America, Danny Boy is considered the anthem of the Irish.

The lyrics were written by Frederick Weatherly in 1910 and set to the Irish tune Londonderry Air around 1913. There are several different interpetations of the famed ballad, the more widely embraced being a father referring to his leaving Danny with the knowledge the father-figure will die. The phrase, "the pipes, the pipes are calling" refers to the tradition funeral instrument. The town of Danny is located just inland of Ireland's west coast in county Kerry.

The song has been covered by both Irish musicians as well as a host of others in a variety of styles. Here are just a few. Some sound better with a belly full of Jameson.

I'm just sayin'.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Danny Boy- Bing Crosby
Danny Boy- Elvis Presley
Danny Boy- Shane MacGowan
Danny Boy- John McDermott

The Muppets- Danny Boy (1977)


Gracie Fields- Danny Boy (The Jitterbugs, 1939)


Judy Garland- Danny Boy (1955)


Jackie Wilson- Danny Boy (196?)


Sinead O'Connor- Danny Boy (The Late Late show Christmas 1993)


Johnny Cash & Jimmie Rodgers - Danny Boy (196?)


Andy Williams- Danny Boy (195?)


Camille- Danny Boy (2008)





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