Subject: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 12:31 AM We have had many discussions of the troubles in Ireland in the forum, who was right, who was wrong, and where Ireland's people might go from here. It occurred to me that there are plenty of songs celebrating the Republican or Unionist positions and history, but wouldn't it be great to hear some songs that talked of Irish peace and hope for the future for all of its people? The heritage of revolution and discord is strong in Ireland. Events such as the Battle of the Boyne in 1690 (remembered by Protestants in Ulster for the victory of William over the Roman Catholic Irish Army), the Rebellion of 1798 (commemorated by the great Republican anthem Risin' of the Moon), the Easter Rebellion of 1916 ( depicted in The Foggy, Foggy Dew), and the Irish Revolution of 1919-22 are well remembered. Less glory has been heaped on the continuing "Troubles", that reached a peak in the late 70s and early 80s, but continue through the present day. Recently, peace talks involving the IRA's political wing Sinn Fein, the Ulster Unionists, and the government of Great Britain have fanned the flames of hope for peace among the Irish, a hope that is shared by the vast majority of those in Ireland, England, and indeed the world. I start this thread in the hope of lasting peace for Ireland, and I would love to see folks like Big Mick, the Shambles, InObu, Brendy, Trevor, Alison and others try their hands at this challenge. Happy St Patrick's Day ! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Sorcha Date: 03 Mar 00 - 01:03 AM OK, but can anybody, even Amos, top Tommy Sands? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 01:04 AM The Provo's Song
My Father used to tell me, when I was but a lad
Tim and I and Michael turned to flinging bricks and rocks
On my chest I wore a Crucifix, in my coat an Armalite.
I swore vengeance for their sakes, and for the sake of Bobby Sands
And then one night my own dear Wife, she took me by the hand
I lay long awake that night, then fell into a dream:
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: alison Date: 03 Mar 00 - 02:04 AM I'm no songwriter but here's a chorus...... to the tune of "send the boats away"
Put away your rifles boys, Put away your guns slainte alison |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 02:10 AM Absolutely beautiful, Alison. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: katlaughing Date: 03 Mar 00 - 02:52 AM Wow! Thank you for starting this LeeJ and to you, Alison, for those words. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Wolfgang Date: 03 Mar 00 - 05:18 AM great start for a thread, great verses with such a true feeling; LEJ, do you have a tune for that song? Wolfgang |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,eoin o buadhaigh Date: 03 Mar 00 - 07:18 AM PEACE IN ERIN ballad written and published by Hugh McWilliams from Co. Down in N.I. in 1831
last verse... ( all of Ireland! ) (line breaks added by a Joe Clone) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST Date: 03 Mar 00 - 08:06 AM I recently discovered a great Stan Rogers song called "The House of Orange" that is appropos of this thread. I'll enter it later today if it's not already in the DT.. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: JedMarum Date: 03 Mar 00 - 09:22 AM This is the tale my great grandfather, Martin Little told my father when he was a boy. Martin had begun a new life in America, away from the unrest and hard times - but he loved his native Ireland and had a great concern for its people. The first two verses tell Martin's emmigration story, the last two focus on his concern and his prayer for peace. This is Martin's story; Look Ahead Tommy The land was rich in beauty, magic and song But it was hard to raise a family, working someone else's land So we kissed our Mom and sisters, our Dad he gave use fare With me brothers Sean and Michael, I left them standin' there So long ago We worked a time in England, and we sent a bit back home But Michael took to drinkin' and in two years he was gone I moved on to Boston when Sean joined the Fusiliers And I haven't seen the others for five and thirty years to the day
Chorus:
In Galway and Kilkenny, where our friends and cousins many Go to Chorus |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 03 Mar 00 - 10:34 AM Not a new one LEJ but I will post this again until I come up with a new one. I hope that as many folk as possible would like to fell that they could sing this one, loudly and in as many places as possible. It is difficult to be too optimistic at the moment but there is still hope.
To be sung to the tune of A Rambling Irishman. I have just used the tune to make a point. A naive point maybe but I had this dream, where the whole of Ireland, North and South, joined in one huge session and danced together . . . But what do I know, I'm just a bumbling Englishman? One of many who love the music though.
A Bumbling Englishman
There was a bumbling Englishman,
He went and sold his guitar,
Eileen could do no wrong in his eyes,
He went and sold his guitar,
When he started scraping away,
He went and sold his guitar,
Andy said if he carried on,
He went and sold his guitar,
When he came to a barricade,
He went and sold his guitar,
An old man came from the other side,
He went and sold his guitar,
So many people played that day,
He went and sold his guitar,
The moral of this tale is clear,
He went and sold his guitar,
Roger Gall 1999 PEACE. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 12:51 PM Wolfgang, I don't have a tune for the song. Feel free to supply one, if you'd like. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GeorgeH Date: 03 Mar 00 - 12:55 PM In addition to Bobby Sands (certainly the "first" of the voices for "peace and reconcilliation" in Ireland, 'Catters should look out for what Ron Kavanah and Tommas Lynch have (jointly and severally) done on this subject. I'll try to remember to enter Kavanah's "Cry, Cry, Cry" on Monday if no-one beats me to it. G. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 03 Mar 00 - 01:20 PM LEJ and alison, May I have your joint permission to put The Provo's Song in the Mudcat Songbook? This is one song that should be preserved for posterity, definitely! -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: catspaw49 Date: 03 Mar 00 - 01:28 PM Very nice thread.....Leej, that's a wonderful piece of work. ("Christmas in the Trenches" almost fits) All well done gang and a bit of pleasure to read. Spaw |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 02:38 PM Aine, Alison's song was intended(I think) as a separate piece. With a little coaxing, I'm sure we can get her to enlarge on it. You may certainly put The Provo's Song in the songbook. PM me if you have any questions. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 03 Mar 00 - 03:07 PM Dear LEJ, There ya go, it's in the Book now. Thank you! Dear alison, Come on, girl, let's see ya write some verses for that wonderful chorus, OK? Take the weekend and work on it! We know you can do it! -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 03 Mar 00 - 03:30 PM LEJ et al I dunno if I can come up with something as powerful as what I have seen here. Alison, that was beautiful. The Provo's song is grandiloquent and beautiful, and the Bumbling NEglishman is wonderful and funny...so I dunno...ALison, do what Áine says and make a song for that chorus...there'll be a tune for it. I may come up with something....geez you guys are good, though :>). Sorcha, thanks for the kind thought...I am but an amachoor... |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Mbo Date: 03 Mar 00 - 03:47 PM I don't know if I could ever top De Dannan's "Anthem For Ireland"...that song always give me goosebumps. Besides, I gotta save my energy for Barley's Song Challenge! tomorrow morning! Woo woo! --Mbo |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 03 Mar 00 - 03:56 PM Hey Amos. You've got until St Patrick's Day, so you've got time to produce a true masterpiece. :) LEJ |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: InOBU Date: 03 Mar 00 - 07:23 PM Well LEJ Fine idea, I am tempted to do something about the burning of Castle Otway during the Anglo Irish war and rebuilding it in partnership the new peace. I will have to find a few quiet hours. As always, wishing all the best InOBU (Larry Otway) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 04 Mar 00 - 12:11 PM Jed, great song. InOBU, I look forward to yours! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 04 Mar 00 - 02:57 PM I 've posted this before, but it fits in here, so I'll post it again:
White Snow of the Springtime
Now it's time to remember the lessons we learn
No greater love could a man ever show April 1996 This is a song that started with a physical image, of a cherry tree in my garden, and which has taken on a load of meanings for me - mostly to do with events in Ireland, and with Easter. It's weird sometimes how reality follows images. I wrote the song back in 1996, and my "white snow" was fallen cherry blossom - but as they came out from negotiating the deal on Good Friday, the pictures on the TV showed them standing in falling snow, real snow. (Which is very rare in Ireland at Easter) And here's a link to it on my website, with chords - (and when I can get it together, It'll have the tune as well). White Snow |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: rainbow Date: 04 Mar 00 - 05:00 PM dreaming in the night i saw a land where no one had to fight waking in your dawn i saw you crying in the morning light part of the last verse of "song for ireland" ... lorraine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: rainbow Date: 04 Mar 00 - 05:00 PM dreaming in the night i saw a land where no one had to fight waking in your dawn i saw you crying in the morning light part of the last verse of "song for ireland" ... lorraine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 04 Mar 00 - 06:39 PM This is a little similar to 'A Song For Ireland', in that it too is written by an Englishman Ireland To Me.
I dream of a country, far over the sea
I've worked with you daily, gone with you to school
I've seen all the passions, that in those eyes burn
I dream of a country, far over the sea
I hear songs of your heroes, wars lost and won
Their tragedies mean nothing, lost daughters and sons
I dream of a country, far over the sea
Roger Gall 2000 With special thanks to Lonesome Ernie Johnson, Kevin McGrath and the Keeper of the Book |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 04 Mar 00 - 06:45 PM That is a great song, Roger. Thanks for bringing it to us. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 04 Mar 00 - 10:04 PM Go raibh míle maith agat, a chara chóir. Thank you, dear friend. -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Trevor Date: 04 Mar 00 - 10:43 PM Here we go again!! All green beer and crocodile tears for the poor oppressed Irish ! Oppressed by their own so-called heroes more than by anyone else. Of course, I should know better than to try to tell it as it was and still is in parts of Northern Ireland. There are none so blind as those who will not see ! I still haven't gone away, you know ! Trevor |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 05 Mar 00 - 12:53 AM Trevor, I'm glad you didn't go away. This thread isn't about blaming anyone for the past, it's about hope for the future. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 05 Mar 00 - 02:08 AM It is also about writing a song. I would like to see your thoughts in song too. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: alison Date: 05 Mar 00 - 06:31 AM Aine... feel free to put my chorus into the Mudcat songbook.......I said before I'm no songwriter (but thanks everyone for the encouragement)and you could be a long time waiting for verses. and as LEJ said it was a separate song from his one. By the way Trevor, it came from the heart, from a girl who spent most of her life in Belfast....... I've read your posts in other threads as I'm sure you have read mine...... so far this one is different ..... people are writing of hope for the future.... slainte alison
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Trevor Date: 05 Mar 00 - 10:17 AM Lonesome, who's blaming whom for the Past? I refer to the present and the future both of which are still under the shadow of the Armalite and Semtex. And Alison, words coming from someone's heart hold no currency per se. You could say that Margaret Thatcher's praise of Prsident Pinochet come from the heart, but many paople would loke to deny her the freedom to say them. As they would like to deny me the right not to accept the propoganda of the running dogs of Republicanism. Shambles, I lay no claim to be a purveyor of verse, there are already too many ready to take that particular leap in the dark. Trevor |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: InOBU Date: 05 Mar 00 - 10:38 AM Trevor, Trevor, Trevor: Please stop assuming we are living in hopes of you jumping up and leaving the table! There is far to much good beer to drink and conversation to be had. As a congential liver problem makes my contribution to the beer swilling problematic, stay in your seat Trevor a vic, and keep talking! You are a valued voice in the conversation! If you dont wish to write and sing a few lines, we always look forward to your comentary. As you know, James Connolly always encouraged folks to read the essays that most strongly made the point against his own point, keeps us on our toes and the grey matter active. So, give us your hand, and raise a pint or two and a point or two - we will spent a punt or two, with a pal or two - and thats including you, not in spite of you As ever, old friend Larry |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 05 Mar 00 - 07:36 PM Trevor, what is being said here is that no side that is entirely wrong, and none that is entirely right. God knows you have more information on the situation than I do. Maybe you have lost friends or family in the long battle, and find it difficult to forgive. I hope you didn't take the reference to carrying an Armalite in my song as a glorification of it. What I meant to show was that some who have been guilty of using violence to achieve a goal can change. In fact, if we are to overcome the ancient hatreds indeed we all must change. Not just in Northern Ireland, but in Bosnia, and Timor, here in the United States and everywhere.
Some say the World will end in Fire, some say in Ice -R Frost |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,rpm Date: 05 Mar 00 - 08:39 PM I'm new to this so keep an open mind. Funny that R. Frost should pop up - he read at JFK's inauguration. Twisting through the thread I was struck by something that Bobby Kennedy said in a speech (to paraphrase) - when one travels over the land and waters that make up this world one is touched not by that which divides us, but by that which could (should?) unite us. The vast plains of our continents, and even the oceans and rivers that become our boundaries, could be the basis of our unification, our growth, our children's future. As much as I love much of T. Makem's work his crowning glory would be a new verse for "Four Green Fields" that could celebrate a lasting peace for a long troubled land. I hope he lives to write it. Maybe its the american in me but I can't stand the euphemism "the troubles". Stupidity, bigotry, anything but "troubles". |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: InOBU Date: 05 Mar 00 - 11:24 PM Dear rpm In stead of the troubles, how about colateral damage from the cold war? All the best Larry |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Brendy Date: 07 Mar 00 - 09:03 PM He was never much for small-talk, and it'll mark him to the end. And his life turned like the seasons of the year. But his roads led back to farther fields to a place called long ago where his days were spent in loneliness and fear. At a sacrificial altar, in a half-remembered time, in the land where the righteous fathers ruled the waves. He offered to the holy souls all the ridicule and shame and he prayed for such forgiveness and be spared the eternal flames. So, he lived inside his fantasy; Only love, only love. So he packed his bags and walked away It's a crazy kind of lovesong Only love, only love Copyright © 1999 Orchard County Music. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 07 Mar 00 - 09:20 PM I'd like to hear that Brendy!
"Troubles" a euphemism? Not where I stand, rpm. "Troubles" is a word that takes in all the sorrows of the world, and knows there are always more to come. And America has enough of its own, from what I can see. And has caused enough as well. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,skarpi Iceland. Date: 08 Mar 00 - 07:42 AM Lonesome Ej, you seem to know lot about the trouple in Ireland, Can you send to me by e-mail why all this is happening in N-Ireland. I need some stuff for my radio show, I would like tell the people of Iceland why this is happening. My e- mail is in bbc´s e-mail addresses. All the best skarpi Iceland. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GeorgeH Date: 08 Mar 00 - 09:04 AM Well despite my (oft-broken) resolutions to avoid dipping into Ireland threads . . . As one who's frequently criticised out-and-out Republicanism in this forum, I have to say I find Trevor's contributions here deeply depressing. IF you want to take issue with people and their views, Trevor, then please do. If you want to argue contrary views then even better. Either way, people will respect you for your contribution (whether or not they agree with you) and - by contributing to and extending the discussion - you improve the prospects of people reaching a better understanding of these issues. But you seem to prefer to criticise without offering anything constructive, and to come from a position every bit as extreme and one-sided as the most rabid Republican. The Armalite and Semtex aren't the only instruments of opression casting their shadow over Ireland; to them you must add many of the Churches (both Catholic and Protestant), Local Government, many politicians and their parties, the RUC, the British Army, the sledge hammer . . And while many of those instruments are common to both the Republican and Unionist "extremes" of the situation, there's too large a group which "belong" to the Unionist side. [Note, for instance, the political outcry over the reform proposals for the RUC - which did no more than bring it more into line with police forces in the rest of the UK. (Of course, the British Government declined to make that point, or any other strong indication that the reforms were over-long overdue.) Of course, one has to keep in mind that the Unionists aren't interested in "union" with the rest of Britain of today, their "union" is with a mythical England of the days of William of Orange.] G.
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 08 Mar 00 - 02:21 PM Skarpi, I know something about human nature, but very little in particular about the Northern Ireland situation. There are many here, however, who either live there or have emigrated from there to other lands. Alison, Brendy, InOBU, aand McGrath know far more about it than I do. Brendy, what a song you have written. The images are powerful. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 08 Mar 00 - 04:11 PM skarpi - I suggest you try the Irish Times special about the peace process
It gives a pretty full acoount of the background and the course of events - and the links section will give you access to any number of competing points of view.
This may be more than you want of course. I think you are right to suggest people write via email - public discussions here tend to get out of hand at times, which is affair enough, but might get in the way for your present purposes.
What you might do is post any specific questions here on the Mudcat, asking people to reply by email (or personal message - even if you did sign in as a guest this time). |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Kara geekara@wanadoo.fr Date: 08 Mar 00 - 05:14 PM here is my contribution to peace songs. if you want to know the tune email me and I'll send you a tape
Bring the peace home
He was born on the Orange side,
break down the barbed wire
they met up in London
we will break down the barbed wire
When they brought home their daughter
we will break down the barbed wire (line breaks added by a Joe clone) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 08 Mar 00 - 05:22 PM Dear Kara, Did you write that song? The words are riveting. If the song is yours, would you please give me permission to put it in the Mudcat Songbook? And be on the lookout for an email from me, because I definitely want to hear and learn this song! -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Kara Date: 08 Mar 00 - 06:13 PM Yes I wrotethe song and I would love you to put ot on the Mudcats song book. Kara |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Kara Date: 08 Mar 00 - 06:26 PM Yes I wrotethe song and I would love you to put ot on the Mudcats song book. Kara |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Osmium Date: 08 Mar 00 - 06:55 PM For what its worth may I add my commendation to that of Aine's for kara's song. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 08 Mar 00 - 08:49 PM Wonderful, Kara. Your song gets right to the heart of the matter- it takes as much, or more, courage to change than it does to follow the old ways of hate. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 09 Mar 00 - 01:52 AM Wow! Thanks for this thread LEJ, looks like you have started something really good here. Can't wait for the next one. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 09 Mar 00 - 02:04 PM Cara, that was beautiful! Thank you! Here is rough draft which has borrowed the tune of an Irish fighting melody and I hope used it for a better purpose, if rougher words. Suggestions welcome. A Children of Erin(Melody: The Foggy Dew)I am but a child, of Erin born, In shaded glens, and the streets of men Could a girl, still young Where fighting men died in mountain glens When I my love meet (c) 2000 A. H. Jessup |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 09 Mar 00 - 03:11 PM Amos, another terrific effort! Man,wouldn't these songs make a GREAT CD! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: wysiwyg Date: 09 Mar 00 - 03:22 PM Amos.... Amos..... Amos. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 09 Mar 00 - 03:58 PM Dear Amos, Beautiful! What a wonderful song. I've sent you a PM about it. -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Kara Date: 09 Mar 00 - 05:03 PM Thank you Joe Clone for the line breaks and Shambles for the tips. I love you song amos, great use of a brilliant tune. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Kara Date: 11 Mar 00 - 07:17 AM Come on you people we need more songs than this to make a CD, where is yours Trevor??? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Kara Date: 13 Mar 00 - 02:54 PM The Island (Paul Brady) They say the skies of Lebanon are burning Those mighty cedars bleeding in the heat They're showing pictures on the television Women and children dying in the street And we're still at it in our own place Still trying to reach the future through the past Still trying to carve tomorrow from a tombstone... Chorus But Hey! Don't listen to me! This wasn't meant to be no sad song We've heard too much of that before Right now I only want to be here with you Till the morning dew comes falling I want to take you to the island And trace your footprints in the sand And in the evening when the sun goes down We'll make love to the sound of the ocean They're raising banners over by the markets Whitewashing slogans on the shipyard walls Witchdoctors praying for a mighty showdown No way our holy flag is gonna fall Up here we sacrifice our children To feed the worn-out dreams of yesterday And teach them dying will lead us into glory...
Repeat chorus Copyright Rondor Music (London) (line breaks added by a Joe clone. you need to put < br > at the end of your lines, (without the spaces)) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 13 Mar 00 - 03:20 PM whoof! Powerful stuff, Kara! A |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 13 Mar 00 - 03:21 PM By the way Áine -- isn't there an overdue file somewhere on your hard drive? Or was it that beautiful Washburn you were fixing up all weekend? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Rhianon Date: 13 Mar 00 - 04:13 PM This Irish land sits in green spendor haunting tunes of the ages echo in rhyme. Grey figures spin and twirl in the sky. Shadows of bonfires dance in the night. This Irish land cries in the night This Irish land won't give up the fight. She lives for her people She lives for her pride This Irish land cries in the night. Her stones cry out for the chants of the elders carrying their song into the clouds. The home of the ancients..... The altar is bare. This Irish land cries in the night This Irish land won't give up the fight She lives for her people She lives for her pride This Irish land cries in the night. Rene Zabel - BMI (line breaks added by a Joe clone. (you need to put < br > at the end of each line (without the spaces)) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 13 Mar 00 - 04:36 PM Here's another song I wrote where, any time I sing it, I think about the Peace Process in Ireland. But it might be about turning from violence anywhere.
Listen to your heart,
Listen to your heart,
Oh once I wore my heart on my shoulder.
Listen to your heart, The whispering heart has a double meaning of course. All kinds of reasons for turning from violence.
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 13 Mar 00 - 04:40 PM Sure, McGrath, its a beauty. Into the Tome with it! Call the Book Mistress! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Eric the Viking Date: 13 Mar 00 - 05:34 PM The "Saw Doctors" made a good song- Letter from Louise. Worth listening to. Cheers. Eric |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Kara Date: 14 Mar 00 - 05:27 AM Hey Àine My washburn is broken too. Did you get yours fixed. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Áine Date: 14 Mar 00 - 10:19 AM Kevin -- May I please have permission to put your song in the Mudcat Songbook? And is the title Listen To Your Heart? I tried to find it on your webpage, but I couldn't. Kara -- No, it wasn't my Washburn I was fixing. It was my Takamine. I had to reglue a bridge and sand down the frets. It's sounding better, but I'm still not satisfied with the frets. Looks like I'll have to get them replaced some time down the road. My Washburn Montgomery J-6 is brandnew and I'm in love with her. It's a good thing my dear hubby is so understanding -- the laundry and the dishes are piling up while I steal extra minutes from my "domestic engineer" job to play her. -- Áine |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 14 Mar 00 - 10:26 AM The Takamine is the real story behind the "six kids down with the flue" presentation we were being offered. Áine's busted !! :>) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 14 Mar 00 - 04:00 PM Rhianon, a brilliant piece of imagery. And McGrath... what can I say besides - another song up to your high standard. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Kara Date: 14 Mar 00 - 06:11 PM here is another one , this Cranberries Song always gives me goose bumps Zombie
Another head hangs lowly,
But you see, it's not me, it's not my family.
In your head, in your head,
Zombie, zombie, zombie?
Another mother's breakin',
With their tanks and their bombs,
In your head, in your head, they are dying...
In your head, in your head, |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Maire Date: 14 Mar 00 - 09:59 PM I came a little late to this thread, but I'd like to nominate a song by Dominic Behan called Brave New World. If anybody knows the time period it was written, I'd like to know. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Sullsinger Date: 15 Mar 00 - 03:46 AM I have written two original Irish folk songs which can be heard on my website. These songs, especially th title track of my newly released CD "RAISE YOUR GLASS" have fast become hits in Chicago. It is a thrill! If anyone is interested in hearing these songs, or learning more about my music, and the CD, please respond to this post, and I will send you the link. Click for Sullsinger's Site |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Big Mick Date: 15 Mar 00 - 08:54 AM As you might guess, it is taking me some time to get caught up on the 'Cat. Leaving for a couple of months and then coming back to find this gives me hope. And a little sadness. First, the hope. What marvellous, insightful lyrics, my friends. None of the rabid stuff, just hope for a peaceful future for the children. That is all most of us ever hoped for. My dear Alison, MY FAIR ONEI loved the chorus you wrote and I am straightaway building verses for it if you don't mind. We can go over them when I am "on assignment" the next time........LOL. The sadness is for our Trevor. Sir, you and I could probably do battle with the best of them over the issues of Ireland and her troubled relationship with dear old Mother England. But what makes me sad is that you seem to have nothing positive to say in terms of outcome or what you would like to see happen there. You only seem bent on telling us what is wrong with the Irish. Seems like a variation on "the trouble with Ireland is the Irish". If you want to revive one of the threads where we debate these issues, such as "Back Home In Derry", we can have a go at it. Or better yet, why not write a lyric which expresses your feelings about peace in Ireland? But if your best offering in a lovely thread is vitriolic pap, I am afraid you will become irrelevant, and ignored. Don't let that happen my friend. All the best, Big Mick |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: wysiwyg Date: 15 Mar 00 - 08:59 AM Is that why Big Mick was made so big, to hold a heart like that? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 15 Mar 00 - 09:10 AM Tell ye what -- ye want peace in Ireland, just send Biggus Mickus over there with an ugly stick and a bag of candy. Fix 'em right up, he would... |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Rick Fielding Date: 15 Mar 00 - 12:03 PM I watched an episode of the series "The Irish in America" last night on C.B.C. and it dealt with the 1840s in rural Ireland. It (sadly) takes so much to shock me these days, but my God, what a sad documentary. I have no idea whether the series is reasonably unbiased or not, but when they talked about Trevelyan and his co-horts not wanting to mess with "God's plan for Ireland" (ie: starvation as some kind of retribution for past sins?) I practically fell off my chair. It reminded me that before TV came along to document on an almost day-by-day basis,various famines and atrocities world wide, we could only find out about them years later from whoever wrote the history books..and what political parties those authors belonged to. Rick |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Mike Lipscombe Date: 16 Mar 00 - 05:05 AM Hi Folks...some good reading on my first visit here!! Released a song called "Peace is Breaking out in Ireland" a year or so ago...the two verses are as follows:
Sinn Fein talking peace, never thought I'd see the day
The tears of the innocents, you see the hatred burning The song is on mp3.com in the Irish music/folk section and is called "When peace is breakin out in Ireland" or you might like to hear some New Zealand Irish music by our group KEEGAN at www.mp3.com/keegan1 keep it up Mike Lipscombe (line breaks added by a Joe clone) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Popular Halfwit Date: 16 Mar 00 - 12:11 PM Peace in Ireland. Now thats a wonderful prospect. Finding a song that could symbolise the realisation of what is at the moment only wishful thinking is also a sobering task. When the day dawns on an Ireland truly at peace we will hear the whole world sing out with joy. Meanwhile, i was listening to Leslie Duncans song the other evening. The one with the lyrics,..... "Love is the key we must turn, Truth is the flame we must burn, Freedom is a lesson we can learn, If you know what i mean. Until then,.........
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: M Date: 16 Mar 00 - 06:52 PM LEJ--any music to go with The Provo's Song? We're always looking for a new song to sing at the local session. With your permission, of course. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 17 Mar 00 - 03:10 PM M...if you come up with a tune, the songwriting credit is half yours. Just let me hear it! To all of my friends who contributed to this thread - You are truly a wise, wonderful and creative group. I am proud of you for all the songs posted here that either brought a smile to my face, or tears to my eyes. I think that soon this thread will pass into the archives, but I will always remember the positive energy generated by it. And, to you all, I offer this toast on St Patrick's Day : May all your dreams of Peace come true for the Irish, and for us all. May we deal with each other in a spirit of kindness and mutual respect. May we replace the memory of old wrongs with the hope and promise of new beginnings. Slainte' LEJ |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 17 Mar 00 - 03:22 PM Slainte', LEJ!We love you for a Poet!A. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,SDShad Date: 17 Mar 00 - 06:04 PM Guinness in hand, SDShad contributes another of MacGowan:
I sat for a while by the gap in the wall
So I walked as day was dawning Off to hear pipers and drink stout! Slainte! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,SDShad Date: 17 Mar 00 - 06:07 PM Wrong board, too many windows open. Don't mind that last post. Shad |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 17 Mar 00 - 06:47 PM The Provo song would fit well the tune used for GARDEN WHERE THE PRATIES GROW, with a midi in the DT entry behind that last clicky thing.
It would be appropriate, since it was the the tune used by Brendan Behan (not Dominic for once) for "The Ould Alarum Clock" about a bombing expedition to London on behalf of the IRA at the start of the last war.
It's not in the DT so far as I could find it. I'd be surprised if it's never featured in a thread. (It's a song that's sung a lot less often than it was back in the 60s.) |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: John Moulden Date: 18 Mar 00 - 07:35 AM A long way above, Eoin O Buadhaigh posted the final verse of the song "Peace in Erin" by a 19th Century poet called Hugh McWilliams. He was born in Glenavy, Co Antrim in about 1783, went to teach on north county Down in about 1800 and published one book of poems when he lost that job in 1816. Another book was published in 1831 at which stage he was in mid-Antrim - Clough - and had been since 1819. He is extraordinary because of thirty two songs in that second book, no fewer than ten can be traced into oral tradition, including "When a man's in love" and "The trip over the mountain" which became widespread. It seems he had a real grasp of what people would want to sing. However, when I first saw the book I was struck by the way in which one set of words I had never heard sung, summed up my views and those of most of those I knew. It was directed to be sung to a tune named as "Rattling Guns" - this I surmised was a distortion of the usual name for Buirns' Ode to Autumn "When westlin' winds and slaughtering guns" - which some will know from the singing of the Voice Squad and others from that of Len Graham. Oddly enough, Len had got his air for the song from, Tommy Kelly, a singer at Newtowncrommellin in County Antrim - almost beside where Hugh McWilliams was, as research showed, living around 1831. The words and air fitted. I started singing the song and as one always should do with a song, gave copies to them as asked and to them as didn't. I now hear it from all sort of places and all sort of people. Áine Uí Cheallaigh has recorded it and I seldom get the chance to sing it these days because someone else in the company gets there before me. It's a song which despite its age, speaks directly to our time and especially to those who value traditional idiom. One small explanation is needed ... To Clough or to the Glens hard by ... is a reference to the fact that in the north of Ireland protestants tend to occupy the towns, villages and lower ground while, certainly in the country, catholics live higher up, where it's less fertile; a survival of the forced population movement at the time of the Plantation - however, High McWilliams showed no bitterness and nor should we. PEACE IN ERIN Tune - Rattling Guns.
Were all mankind disposed like me,
We're formed by one Deity,
What shore can boast so pure an air?
Would freedom fair and commerce smile,
'Tis principle that shows the man, |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,LMH Date: 18 Mar 00 - 05:40 PM I believe no one has yet suggested "Anthem for the Children" written by Tommy (I think) Sweeney, formerly of Barley Bree, who have recorded it. It's the one whose chorus goes . . . And this is what I'd like to have for Ireland, the country that has made us what we are: To breathe the air of freedome In her mountains and her streets, And give the children peace instead of war. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,donegal_dan@yahoo.com Date: 18 Mar 00 - 11:16 PM The only song that i think sums up what you are trying to say is the "Island" by Paul Brady which basically is the best song that has ever been written about the North. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 30 Jun 00 - 02:06 PM Reconciliation by Ron Kavana |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 08 Jul 00 - 06:44 AM Good fortune to all good folk in Ireland. My thoughts are with them at this time. Please click on the previous link in this thread and let us ALL sing the song. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: katlaughing Date: 08 Jul 00 - 09:31 AM Shambles, you should join us in HearMe, sometime. That's where I first hear this song. It is beautiful and well-meant. Thanks...kat |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Barfy Date: 08 Jul 00 - 09:41 AM Perhaps he could start another of his threads to let all the rest of us know when he is appearing, and link it to this one where there should be several other links placed to other questionable offerings of his. Shambles in Hearme - Do you think we could get the producers of Valium to sponsor the event. Any thoughts anyone? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: mg Date: 08 Jul 00 - 01:29 PM I don't have a song but yesterday in the Vancouver (WA) paper there was this most awesome picture...that I think should get whatever prize pictures get...of a little girl in Northern Ireland...about six...looking like she was cheering on a soccor team or something..behind her were a couple of older boys, and another one with a mask on that made his face look like a skeleton....it was one of the most powerful pictures I have ever seen..this darling little girl in front of this ghoul...they had been throwing rocks at the peacekeepers...it was an ap photo. mg |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amergin Date: 08 Jul 00 - 03:45 PM Here's my very humble contribution to this thread.....
All The Fighting, Lord
Hush my country, don't you cry
It's not too late, dear brothers
As my tears ring out in the moonlit night
I've got an orange sash given to me
There is a wall they call the Peace Line Amergin |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 08 Jul 00 - 04:48 PM That was beautiful Amergin. Thank you. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 08 Jul 00 - 05:10 PM Here's a link to Áine and Layne singing my song I mentioned earlier, White Snow - and here is a link to the words on my site. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 13 Jul 00 - 05:46 AM I can only hope that this current display of the 'monster', in us all, is 'the last roar of the dinosaur, as it marches to extinction'. The Last Roar. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GreatBrownShark Date: 13 Jul 00 - 06:16 AM The Northern Ireland Office had an add on TV a few years ago which used the Cat's in the Cradle as the backdrop. It ended with father gazing into his sons coffin while the band sang 'Oh my son was just like me yeah my son was just like me' Very affecting I always assumed the family featured were protestants because the mother had a feathered haircut!! Such are the Irish psychoses. GBS |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Mrr Date: 13 Jul 00 - 09:59 AM Does anybody know the poem called The Identification? It's about the "troubles" in Ireland... or one facet thereof... If nobody finds it first I'll try to get a hold of my copy. It tears your heart out and needs music. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Brendy Date: 13 Jul 00 - 02:42 PM Psychoses or not, GBS, the subliminal 'message' of the advert was to suggest that the violence only stems from one section of the community. Many others, would have developed the same understanding of that advert. Not so many, however, would have seen the significance of it. The accent is also a give-away. B. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 14 Jul 00 - 06:55 AM I too saw the film that Brendy refers to.
It does come from one section of the community and was aimed at them. It was young men who have grown up with segregation and have inherited the concept that violence is natural, heroic and the only option.
Not exclusively from either the loyalist or nationalist sides.
If you are used to living in a divided community and especially one where you identified with the oppressed minority, your reading of that Government message is understandable. For you will see all the subtleties that others will miss and be suspicious of the whole thing. If the correct word for this is psychosis, then at least it is an understandable psychosis.
It may be is possible however that someone from the other side would see it as depicting ONLY their side?
Maybe they could have placed the film in a fictitious country or setting but I think the impact would have been less? In truth how could they have have got the message over any better, if they wanted to make it particularly relevant to Northern Ireland? By using English or American actors and their 'Orish' accents?
Possibly I would suggest by having two story lines, one from each community but that may have made it a little unwieldy and confusing?
I may be suspicious of, a such a message from my government, especially if they were not the party of my choice. It would be foolish of me not to take heed of a film that advised me to 'fasten my seatbelt, if the main character was clearly a Scotsman (or an actor with a poor accent), for example. For I could surely still see the common sense in the message? Time for another song, I think …………. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: mg Date: 15 Jul 00 - 01:42 AM here's 3 verses...needs a 4th..which I might have.. based on the picture I described..
go home little girl and play with your doll
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Merlin Date: 15 Jul 00 - 09:30 AM All right,I am a guest who just found Mudcat. I was looking at this discussion and an idea for a part of a song popped into my head. Tunewise I am clueless, but here are the words.
Parents are dying |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Shambles Date: 16 Jul 00 - 05:12 AM Down On The Border |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 06 Mar 01 - 06:06 PM This is the first anniversary of this thread, and I'm not sure peace is any closer in Ireland. But there are some great songs here, and some really positive energy expressed in them. Maybe someone who didn't participate last time has a song, or some of the talented new folks do. Either way, I wish every one of you a Happy St Patrick's Day! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 17 Mar 01 - 12:25 PM ref |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 17 Mar 01 - 01:46 PM Amazing to think it has been a year, LEJ!!! And in all that time, Aine STILL hasn't sent me a recording of that tune I wrote!!! Where is the Gaelic Goddess when you need her!!! A |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amergin Date: 17 Mar 01 - 03:13 PM Finding a good set of false teeth? Amerginduckinghishead... |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lanfranc Date: 18 Mar 01 - 06:28 AM I came late to this thread, swinging by from the protest songs thread. Having been closer than I cared to be to two of the IRA's bombs in London, and having known one victim, I tend to get het up about things Irish, and thus avoid them most of the time. I also have a problem with the phrase "the peace process", which I consider a singularly inept neologism. Wherever it is used, be it in the Middle East or Ireland, it always seems to be a synonym for two implacably hostile factions making superficially polite conversation while figuring out how they can poison the other side's drinks. What do you get after the peace process? Mushy peace? The songs in this thread are superb, and I wish I could add something worthwhile. Maybe I will, though I'm a singer of songs, and not a particularly good songwriter. "Peace will come, let it begin with me!" (Paxton) Thank you, all who have contributed above, for making me think! I must leave and obtain treatment for my cynicism.
|
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amergin Date: 18 Mar 01 - 03:42 PM Alan, why don't you write about your friend and the grief that followed? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 11 Mar 02 - 05:21 PM Refresh. Happy St Pat's 2002! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Pooka Date: 11 Mar 02 - 06:20 PM I'm no songwriter; but here's a little hopefully-updated chant: Down the long ladder and coil up the rope, *Enough* with King Billy, and likewise the Pope, Up the Orange and Green and the Red White and Blue! This ain't sixteen-ninety, it's two thousand and two. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Paul from Hull Date: 11 Mar 02 - 06:37 PM I just watched Billy Connolly on the BBC, doing his Tour of the UK, & he was in Northern Ireland. They kept playing snatches of 'There Were Roses' sung by a young-sounding Irish female voice I didnt recognise (& it was WONDERFULLY done, btw) ...Just wondering if anyone has any idea of who it might be?.....It didnt say on the Credits that I could see. I know this is possibly a little bit of thread creep, & that I could do a Search on Google anyway for Discographies, but I just wanted to post to this thread & show my 'support' for it, along with what I've said/asked above. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Big John Date: 11 Mar 02 - 08:59 PM The thirty years of fighting that created so much hate, Has ended with the peace accord now we hold our breath and wait. Any now the common people must take it in their stride To forgive each others actions and to honour those who died. There is no right there is no wrong, Only heartache and the pain And a true determination that it must not start again. I speak to all those young men who have so much to give. Don't give your lives for Ireland, Far better that you live. Far better that you reach out and take your brother's hand, Than face him with a rifle and leave blood upon the sand. And if he's wearing orange and you are wearing green then let your peace take it's release on the white that stands between. The future of your children is there within your reach So learn to be tolerant, and having learned, teach. Our country now has come of age , from it's tempesuous past, So let us live in harmony And let peace reign at last. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 11 Mar 02 - 09:46 PM Brilliant, Big John. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Pooka Date: 11 Mar 02 - 09:49 PM Big John - O, magnificent. "The white that stands between", ye got it exactly right. Thank you. My God, I wish I could write. Dominic Behan, assuming it was indeed he who wrote it, may have meant it differently but I'll stand with the plain words of the first verse anyway (yeah yeah, I've read the threads on it)(*my* emphasis added): Come all ye young rebels, and list while I sing, For the love of one's country is a terrible thing: It banishes fear with the speed of a flame, And it makes us all part of *the patriot game*. Who was it that wrote of "...the old Lie: Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori" ? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amergin Date: 12 Mar 02 - 12:36 AM Pooka....it was Wilfred Owens..... |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: The Pooka Date: 12 Mar 02 - 01:06 AM Amergin - thank you. / Never would have remembered that. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Eoin O'Buadhaigh Date: 12 Mar 02 - 06:41 AM A great thread! A big thanks to John Moulden, I must admit, one of my favourite songs 'Peace in Erin' thanks for submitting the whole song. I once heard a singer from Mullaghbawn singing it, Gerry O'Hanlon. Fine job he made of it to! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Paddy Joe Date: 12 Mar 02 - 07:23 AM That great Nobel Peace winner and First Minister Trimble has put in his bit for peace and neighbourly love by delaring that the Irish Republic is" amono-cultural, mono-ethnic,and a pathetic state." We love him. Paddy Joe. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,baby_bleus Date: 23 Oct 03 - 10:25 PM I firmly believe that peace in Ireland can and WILL only be found through the Jesus Christ. My song follows... The streets are full of violence There's mourning everywhere The city's full of sorrow For your love they do not know You asked how much we want it Lord Yet we still turn away You want to reclaim your land The decision's in our hands How much will we sacrifice for you Lord, How long will it take for us to heed the call How much will we give of ourselves How long before we give you our all Lord, you've given this land to us And called us to spread your word You've shown us how to love again Now you're saying that it's our turn How much will we sacrifice for you Lord, How long will it take for us to heed the call How much will we give of ourselves How long before we give you our all |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 10 Mar 05 - 11:21 PM Happy St Patrick's Day everybody! Keep working for Peace! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Big Tim Date: 11 Mar 05 - 05:49 AM COME ULSTER (tune, "Danny Boy") Some day to walk, in peace through Ulster valleys, That Red Hand land, where once lived Danny Boy, But Omagh Town, and round by Ballymoney Are names of shame that once were pride and joy. Too many tears, and years of blood and blunder, For flag of green, and streets red, white and blue, Too long we've seen, our people torn asunder, Tear down these walls, instead, and start anew. Chorus Come Ulster north, south, east and west together, Through Antrim, Down, Fermanagh and Tyrone, Through Armagh too, then view the Walls of Derry, Together now, and never walk alone. Leave ancient days, and ancient ways, forever, Within the rage, and page, of history, With heart and hand, come Ulster stand together, Come Ulster - build a new society. And let us walk, in peace through Ulster valleys, That Red Hand land, where once lived Danny Boy, Let Omagh Town, and round by Ballymoney, Again resound, in peace and pride and joy. B.T. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST Date: 11 Mar 05 - 06:57 AM A brilliant and hard hitting song of the troubles is Erc Bogles " My youngest son", the mother of whom could be on either side of the sectarian divide. However for a beautiful and forward looking ong Ron Kavanagh's reconcilliation is my favourite. There is a link back up the thread(June 2002 from Shambles)to this. Dick Gaughan does a good reading of this. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Wrinkles Date: 11 Mar 05 - 09:43 AM Many of the songs in this thread have brought tears to my eyes. I feel more than a bit outclassed by this company, hence I feel the need to justify including my own effort. This is not exactly a "peace" song, more of an anti-Troubles song. I composed it sometime around '77/8 after the first decade of the Troubles in the hopes it would make folk think about the Troubles, what perpetuates them, and their ultimate futility, because it seemed to me at the time that nothing had been gained from the Troubles, but there was plenty of things that had been lost because of them. I've always found songs that deal with "issues" are so intellectual that they lack emotional punch and reality, so I personalised the issues and wrote a song about one woman's loss from her point of view. It seemed to work; when ever I performed the song there was always a few moments silence afterwards before the audience loudly applauded. It was a very humbling experience; the song is greater than the composer. I was approached more than once by folk asking if I'd based the story on a real life cases that they were able to cite. This somewhat took me aback, to realise that the story had really happened more than once, because I'd made it all up from my imagination. What got me thinking along these lines was someone remarking " 'T'is easy to die. There's plenty as has died for Ireland, but who can ye name that has chose to _live_ for her? Now that'd be hard, aye."; I've no idea if that was a quote or spontanious. I taught the song to a few local Belfast performers of the time (from both "sides"!) and for a while it took up a life of it's own. I left NI almost two decades ago now, so I've no idea if anyone is still singing this in the clubs today. The verse verse chords repeat for every two lines, and the tempo is a slow 4/4. Wrinkles JOHNNY WHY DID YE DO IT [verse 1] [Asus2]When I was a [Cmaj7]young maid my [D] Johnny courted [Am]me and he [C]made me so [Em]happy when he [C]said "My bride ye'll [G]be". We were wed and when I was seven months with child the fire grew in his eyes, I could see him turnin' wild. He said that he was off "A Rebel for to be" so that his child could be raised in a land of the free. And so my husband left to fight the forces of the Crown, but it t'was not very long 'afore he was shot down. [chorus 1] Ah. [Dm]Johnny [Em]why did ye [Am]do it? Johnny why did ye do it? [verse 2] Our son was born and for his father was named and as he grew I told him of his father famed. I told him that his father had been a martyr brave, who'd died a hero, his country for to save. Young Johnny was but seventeen when he took up the gun he said "I have to fight, for I am me father's son". and it was on a bright May morning they came and said to me; "They've caught young Johnny, and hung him from a tree". [chorus 1] Ah. Johnny why did ye do it? Johnny why did ye do it? [verse 3] I wept, and I cried, I swore that I would die but I choked upon my tears when I realised I'd called my man a hero just to make my own grief less and sent my son too his death by my thoughtlessness. For my son may have never made his stand if I'd not made a hero out of my husband. This foolish woman has a lot to answer for; with my selfish pride I fanned the flames of war. [chorus 2] Ah, Johnny, can ye forgive me? Johnny can ye forgive me? |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Don(Wyziwyg)T Date: 11 Mar 05 - 12:54 PM GIVE UP THE GUNS Ch. Give up the guns lads, for they've had their time, Think about peace lads, it isn't a crime, You can't have real freedom until you decide, To lay all your weapons aside. 1. If you use a pistol to settle disputes, Then victory goes to the first man who shoots, Which means that he comes out on top in the fight, But it sure doesn't mean that he's right. 2. It's true, justice sometimes is won by revolt, As America thrived, at the point of a colt, What's democracy worth, that can only be won, If every man carries a gun? Ch. ……………………………………………………………………… 3. A bomb doesn't know if you're black, or you're white, And a bullet can't choose, where to finish it's flight, But the users don't care if they kill foe or friend, As long as they win in the end. 4. Sixty years have passed by without a real war, But small ones a-plenty, some forty or more, And the millions they slaughtered have not died in vain, If you stop it happening again. Ch. ………………………………………………………………………. 5. The guns have to go, the killing must cease, It's ballots, not bullets, we need to bring peace, If you talk to each other, you'll certainly find, That the winner is all of mankind. Ch. ……………………………………………………………………….. Ó Don Thompson March 2004 Don T. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Swave N. Deboner Date: 11 Mar 05 - 05:06 PM I just stopped in and saw this thread. For some reason, Richard Thompson's song, "When Will I Ever Be Simple Again?" came to mind, and words just started flowing. I'd like to make this contribution, set to that beautiful melody. Please understand, although I'm not Irish in the absolute sense, I am by blood, so this is an issue that concerns me. When Will There Ever Be Peace Once Again There's fighting and strife in the streets of ould Derry, There's violence, there's bloodshed, there's tears and there's pain. What does it matter who's Green, or who's Orange? Oh when will there ever be peace once again? Too long has this land been divided by hatred, Yet, asked why it's so, no one can quite explain. Tis an honour to die for the Cause, yet it's hopeless, Oh when will there ever be peace once again? Let bygones be bygones, accept one another. Put an end to the killing, for it's all done in vain. Lay down your arms, stop these bold acts of terror. Oh when will there ever be peace once again? Hear not the closed-minded words of the skeptic, He'll tell you that things here will not ever change. Tis that way of thinking that lets it continue, Oh when will there ever be peace once again? Oh, bring back the happier days we remember Before the Troubles in Ulster began. Look past your differences, stand all together Then, maybe then, there'll be peace once again. When will there ever be peace once again? SND |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Julia Date: 11 Mar 05 - 09:50 PM For those who are interested, the Enniskillen hostel, called "The Bridges" is in the William Jefferson Clinton Peace Center on the site of the 1987 bombing. It was built there as a statement of healing and reconciliation and they hold events and retreats for bringing diverse communities together. I was very moved by the display of children's art that is there. There is a network oof these hostels called Youth Hostelling for Peace developed by Hostelling International www.hihostels.com here's a song I wrote when I was in Irelandafter the Warrington bombing in 1993 Let the Children Sing -copyright Julia Lane Castlebay Music Let the children sing Let the children sing A song that their parents never knew A song about living Loving and forgiving Making all the dreams of the world come true Let the children play Let the children play In the place where their parents fired guns For the anguish of a nation Brought down through generations Can only be healed when the fighting is done Let the children sleep Let the children sleep And grow in the peace of a fruitful land Where anger and fear Have all disappeared With all of the people in God's loving hand PAX Julia |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Amos Date: 11 Mar 05 - 10:10 PM THese recent addtions are very fine indeed -- thanks to you all. A |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST Date: 12 Mar 05 - 06:07 PM |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 13 Mar 07 - 02:59 PM On the seventh anniversary of this thread, things look much brighter for Ireland. Thanks to all who have posted such wonderful words and songs here. Happy St Patrick's Day! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: oldhippie Date: 13 Mar 07 - 06:12 PM To "Paul from Hull" - the female singer of "There Were roses" was probably Cara Dillon. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,KT Date: 14 Mar 07 - 01:28 AM I believe that Joan Baez, Kathy Matthea and Dolores Keane all recorded "There Were Roses" KT |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: bradfordian Date: 25 Mar 07 - 04:41 PM Contents of songs referred to in this thread. Information subject to confirmation Title,FirstLine / Author / Submitted by Peace In Erin / Hugh McWilliams / eoin o buadhaigh Tune: Danny Boy The Provo's Story / LonesomeEJ / LonesomeEJ Tune: The Garden Where The Praties Grow (suggested) Look Ahead Tommy / Jed Marum /Jed Marum A Bumbling Englishman / Roger Gall / Shambles White Snow of Springtime / Kevin McGrath / McGrath Ireland To Me / Roger Gall / Shambles Only Love / Brendy / Brendy Bring The Peace Home / Kara / Kara Children Of Erin / A H Jessop / Amos Tune: Foggy Dew The Island / Paul Brady / Kara This Irish Land / Rene Zabil / Rhianan Listen To Your Heart / Kevin McGrath / McGrath Zombie / / Kara Peace Is Breaking Out In Ireland/M.Lipscombe/Mike Lipscombe All The Fighting, Lord / Amergin / Amergin Last Roar Of The Dinasaur / Roger Gall / Shambles Go Home Little Girl / mg / mg Parents Are Dying / Merlin / Merlin Streets Full Of Violence/ Baby Bleus / Baby Bleus Down On The Border / Roger Gall / Shambles Come Ulster / Big Tim / Big Tim Tune: Danny Boy Johnny, Why Did Ye Do It? /Wrinkles / Wrinkles Give Up The Guns / Don Thompson / Don T When Will There Ever Be Peace Once Again /Swave N. Deboner / Swave N. Deboner Let The Children Sing / Julia Lane / Julia Also mentioned: There Were Roses / Tommy Sands / Paul from Hull Recocilliation / Ron Kavana / Shambles Brave New World / Dominic Behan / Marie Anthem For Ireland / Desmond Leslie / Mbo & Declan Plus my recommendation The Last House In Our Street / Colum Sands |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 11 Mar 08 - 12:35 PM Happy St Patrick's Day to all! May Peace Endure. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Warsaw Ed Date: 17 Apr 09 - 10:29 PM I've searched but can't find in Mudcat or elsewhere the tune for Hugh McWilliams PEACE IN ERIN. Rattling Guns or whatever. Can someone direct me to the tune? Thanks Ed |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: michaelr Date: 17 Apr 09 - 10:56 PM Best to start a new thread requesting that. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Big Mick Date: 17 Apr 09 - 11:52 PM I don't know how I missed this thread the first time around, but I love it. I am putting a tune to Provo's Song, with alison's chorus. Ernie, I will sing it at the Getaway. Wonderful thread, All the best, Mick |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: MartinRyan Date: 18 Apr 09 - 08:30 AM Warsaw Ed The version of Burns Westlin Winds in the DT has a Midi attached. Unfortunately, it sounds very odd to me! Let's see if we can find a better... Regards |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: MartinRyan Date: 18 Apr 09 - 09:10 AM Dick Gaughan has notation and a midi for Westlin Winds at THIS PAGE . To my ear, Peace in Erin is sung to a a slight variation - but the fit is just as good. Regards |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Stringsinger Date: 18 Apr 09 - 12:17 PM "We're formed by one Deity, To worship him, let's all agree," This may be a clue as to why there are the Troubles. Worshipping Deities gives rise to sectarianism. I don't agree that the root is economics. I don't agree to worshipping any Deity, Catholic or Protestant. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Georgiansilver Date: 18 Apr 09 - 12:25 PM I have looked back over this thread and was surprised to find no reference to The Dubliners singing "The Town I Loved So Well" which for me has a poignance all its own... written when the Irish troubles were still in force... or at least a greater force than now. I used to sing this many years ago.... great song. The Dubliners.. The Town I Loved so Well Best wishes, Mike. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Georgiansilver Date: 19 Apr 09 - 03:27 PM I guess that almost went unnoticed |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: breezy Date: 20 Apr 09 - 01:37 PM Yes it is Cara Dillon on Tommy Sands' 'There were Roses' however there is one omission No mention has been made as far as I'm aware of Anthony John Clarke's song 'Broken Years' The first verse begins 'The whole family's sitting watching T V It's the only thing that makes them feel better And no one plays the radio, the news is always bad The kids have been keeping Daddy up all night Rocking rolling , shouting fighting Tommorrow is the marching season We'll meet at the roundabout chorus 'I want eat at the same table, Break the same bread March down the same street, Hear the same band Sing the same songs Say the prayers Together we can mend the broken tears' 4th [and final] verse With all the pretty colours on the pavement, the green and gold ,red , white and blue and all. And all the little broken shops and houses with their badly spelt slogans on the wall. It's no wonder everybody's leaving, It's no wonder at all at all at all Three cheers for the broken years Mo Mowlan was most complimentary about the song Anthony John C modestly thinks it's nothing special As a teacher of english - last known whereabouts Liverpool - its great to see him put his literary talents to good use. I hope he doesnt object to me posting part of his song |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,TJ in San Diego Date: 20 Apr 09 - 02:10 PM With the constraints of time, I fall back on the old melody of "Galway Bay." My wife's grandfather and brothers all emigrated from County Mayo in the early 1900's. If any were alive today, I'm sure they would wish one day to return to their birthplace and find no more strife or hatred between their Irish brothers and sisters, and a united country much stronger than the one they left. .................................................................. Oh, some day I will go back again to Ireland, When the troubles and the wars are put to rest; When the Green embrace the Orange as Irish family, And find a common ground that stands the test. What have all the years of strife produced that's worthy? Are our children better off for all the noise? Must we lose a part of every generation? For pikes and guns and bombs are dangerous toys! Why not bind the wounds of war and stand together? A united Ireland serves the people best. In a world sometimes gone mad there is a lesson, That seeking peace is God's most worthy quest. Open minds and open hearts must find the answers, That will bring Ireland together, once for all. For a new millenium calls upon the people, To leave unbid the war pipes' siren call. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: breezy Date: 20 Apr 09 - 02:20 PM A republican maybe The word 'United' will certainly be grounds for devisiveness and will not be P C Its never going to be simple The world of rugby leads the way |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,TJ in San Diego Date: 20 Apr 09 - 04:05 PM This is a music venue, primarily. But we find, now and then, that more serious matters intrude. This thread is certainly one. Generations of division and enmity, taught by fathers and mothers to sons and daughters in perpetuity, lead inexorably onward to more hatred and more strife, more of each generation doomed to succumb to the same ills that killed and maimed so many of their forebears. At some point, not at all limited to Ireland, humans must find a way beyond the self-fulfilling prophesy of death and destruction, class or religious hatred or envy, economic or military domination and personal fear and insecurity. All peoples have gifts to bring to the table. They are better shared than hoarded. The alternative, given the opportunities and tools for destruction now available, is unthinkable. Anyone can easily find a rationale for maintaining hatred. It takes all the more courage to overcome it. Hopefully, music can be both a messenger and a balm in helping this along. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Keith A of Hertford Date: 21 Apr 09 - 03:20 AM I wish I could hear Mick sing The Provo's Song. It is one I would happily sing along to. Well crafted EJ. keith. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 06 Mar 12 - 11:38 AM Of the several threads I have begun on Mudcat through the years, this is still my favorite. More so because what many of us hoped and prayed for just a few years ago is finally coming to pass. It takes strength to fight, but it takes bravery to make peace, and the Irish have shown themselves to be both strong and brave. Happy St Patrick's Day ! |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 07 Mar 12 - 08:24 PM 12 years and a peace agreement later, here's The Provo's Song |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: GUEST,Dáithí Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:29 AM I find this particularly appropriate and moving, too... NORTH AND SOUTH I want to reach out over the Loch And feel your hand across the water Walk with you along an unapproved road Not looking over my shoulder I wanna see, and I wanna hear To understand your fears But we're north and south of the river I've been doing it wrong all of my life This holy town has turned me over A young man running from what he didn't understand While the wind from the Loch just get colder, colder There was a badness that had its way But love wasn't lost, love will have its day North and south of the river North and south of the river Can we stop playing this old tattoo Darling I don't have the answer I wanna meet you where you are I don't need ya to surrender 'Cause there's no feeling that's so alone As when the one you're hurting is your own North and south of the river North and south of the river North and south of the river Some high ground is not worth taking Some connections are not worth making This old church bell no longer ringing Some old songs are not worth Singing North... / Higher ground is not worth taking |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Nick Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:45 AM Surprised that one of my favourite songs isn't here - Troubles of Erin by Vin Garbutt I went to Ireland (north and south) for the first time last year and enjoyed singing it there TROUBLES OF ERIN - Vin Garbutt 1. Oh, remember when civil rights marchers were battered with clubs to the ground, and the very first squaddie to lay down his body and part with his soul for the crown May the troubles of Erin be over May the bubble of peace be preserved May the white dove inspire the children of Ireland Peace is the least they deserve 2 And remember that cold Bloody Sunday, when troops opened fire on the crowd, and the people of Derry again had to bury their loved ones, and pay for the shroud. 3 And the tragedy of Enniskillen, when a bomb broke the heart of the town, and that elderly man, who held out his hand, to the killer who cut his girl down. 4 And the boys in the bar room at Poyntz Pass, good friends who could see no divide. A cold heinous crime cut them down in their prime; their blood was as one where they died. 5 Oh, the prisons are filled with their number, the angry, the anguished, the shamed; but the wire must come down in each county and town for the ghosts of the past to be laid. 6 So let's pray for the day of forgiveness, when the weeping and wailing will cease, and may love reconcile all of Erin's green isle, may the living and dead rest in peace. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Keith A of Hertford Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:56 AM Thanks EJ. keith. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 08 Mar 12 - 09:55 AM Daithi and Nick, beautiful songs. and Keith, you are more than welcome, sir. |
Subject: RE: Peace in Ireland: A Song Challenge From: Lonesome EJ Date: 17 Mar 14 - 01:23 PM 15 years on...Happy St Patrick's Day all! |
Share Thread: |
Subject: | Help |
From: | |
Preview Automatic Linebreaks Make a link ("blue clicky") |