You're dead right Philippa!
There are Loyalist's songs and Loyalist's songs...just the same as with nationalists and there is nothing whatsoever to be ashamed of in celebrating our heritage.
Unfortunately, what sometimes starts with 'parodies' of songs can turn them into descriminatory and nasty.....as you say 'the rallying songs'
I'm a Prod myself from a Belfast family and would no more want to sing about being 'up to my neck in Fenian blood' (Billy Boys) than I would sing rebel songs! I'm very proud of my heritage but I'm no fan of violence or the encouragement of it. I know the songs from both sides and have been at 'gatherings' where the singing of songs has led to people on the same side fighting with each other!!!! It's the alcohol content that had the biggest influence!!
As for the 'tune' side of things....the truth is that if anyone stands in Belfast on the 12th of July or on the 15th of August for the Hibernians, the flute and accordian bands will be playing pretty much the same songs anyway cos it's only the words to them that are different!!!!

best wishes, Yvonne