Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums

Subject: Lyr. Req. The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 05 Apr 09 - 05:21 AM

I'm trying to trace the lyrics to a ballad that a friend of mine remembers his father singing some 60 years ago. The chorus may go like this (Oh) The Bugles and drums-----They softly play. He would be very happy if they could be found. Thanks.

Subject: RE: Lyr. Req. The Bugles and Drums
From: Snuffy
Date: 05 Apr 09 - 12:41 PM

Chorus:
For the drums did go with a rap-a-tap-tap,
And the fifes did loudly play, Saying.
'Fare you well, my Polly dear,
I must be going away.'

If this chorus is what you mean, the song is often called The Gentleman Soldier or The Soldier's Cloak or The Sentry Box. You can find one set of words (and links to other sets) in this Mudcat thread

Subject: RE: Lyr. Req. The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 05 Apr 09 - 02:39 PM

Many thanks, I will contact Robin and report on what he says.

Subject: RE: Lyr. Req. The Bugles and Drums
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Apr 09 - 06:18 PM

Hmmm. Bugles and drums aren't known for playing softly.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 09 Apr 09 - 04:33 AM

'tis a good point Jim. The tune has a sadness about it and I can only assume it has something to do with loss.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 09 Apr 09 - 06:25 AM

Here is what we believr to be the chorus.

The bugles and drums, they softly play

when the dawn is breaking they all march away

We're leaving our homes and friends we all new

We're leaving our wives and true loves not a few.

There must be more??

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 09 Apr 09 - 02:01 PM

Hello,

It is definitely not Gentleman Soldier, although that was a good suggestion, Snuffy.
It's completely different in spirit and content.

Best wishes,


Peter

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 09 Apr 09 - 02:23 PM

At least Snuffy had a go Pete. We seem to have drawn a blank. Surely Robby's dad did't write it. If he did, it is a good 'un. Its not super untill we have all the words.

Subject: RE: Lyr Req: The Bugles and Drums
From: folkwaller
Date: 15 Apr 09 - 05:02 PM

Last try.