Lyr Req: Lord of the Dance (tune: Simple Gifts)

Subject: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: Sharon Goldstein
Date: 29 Mar 97 - 12:48 PM

Years ago I heard lyrics called "Lord of the Dance" to a melody I knew only as the Shaker Hymn "Simple Gifts." (I already know the words to that.) I'm pretty sure "Lord of the Dance" is Irish. I'd be eternally grateful for the lyrics.

Thanx much.

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 29 Mar 97 - 01:13 PM

Hi, Sharon - the lyrics are available on the Digital Tradition database. Search under "Lord." I don't think there's any connection between this Sydney Carter song and the dance show that's currently making the rounds of public television pledge weeks.

We used to sing this song at folk masses in the 1960's, and I still know all the verses by heart. Carter published it in 1963, and now it seems a bit dated. I never could get comfortable with the verse that goes, "I danced on a Friday when the sky turned black/It's hard to dance with the devil on your back."

I don't know Carter's nationality. I think he's British, but I'm not sure of that.

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 29 Mar 97 - 03:12 PM

Sydney Carter is English. He recently passed his 80th birthday. For some of his other songs, try a search on Carter

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: Bobby O'Brien
Date: 30 Mar 97 - 07:58 AM

This song has been recorded in Ireland by many singers over the past few years. I'd be happy to send you a cassette with two versions of the song if you like.

Send $2 to cover postage, handling and tape to: Bobby O'Brien, 49 McCleary Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010-2816.

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: Bob Schwarer
Date: 31 Mar 97 - 05:39 PM

John Roberts & Tony Barrand do a nice version. I THINK it's on "Nowell Sing We Clear" #4, but I can't find it to check.

Bob S.

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From:
Date: 30 Apr 97 - 08:53 AM

How about the Dubliners, ughhh?

Nobody can beat their version.

Subject: RE: ?lyrics-Lord of the Dance(tune-Simple Gifts)
From: Sharon, the Originator of this Request
Date: 10 May 97 - 11:43 PM

Thank you to all. In fact, I found three versions (Christian, Pagan & Parody) right in the Mudcat's database of songs.

There's also a Universal version, and if anyone's interested, I'll post them.