Thomas Moore would be turning in his grave calling him "Sir" Thomas Moore. He was an Irishman through and through as is the song which is from an old Irish air. Well done Charlie. You have done the song and the countless Irish who have fought and died for American and Irish freedom proud.
What I like about him is he sings with his soul. He never uses electronic devices to make hhim sound better, he just puts his heart and soul into his music. I also like that he makes the stories in his songs come alive. Can you see the minstril boy fighting on the battle ground and a world without bitterness and war?
As an American-Filipino who grew up in (what was once) a predominately Irish neighborhood, this song brings back alot of memories of my childhood. This was probably the first song I learned how to sing. It's not until now I know the origins of this wonderful tune. Awesome video!!
@XantheBard It always brings tears to my eyes. Charlie Zahm's rendition is brilliant and the words are pure magic. The third verse is a later addition by an anonymous writer but it totally completes the song.
@markay1 The Minstrel Boy will return we pray <--- was second When we hear the news we all will cheer it, The minstrel boy will return one day, <--- was first Torn perhaps in body, not in spirit. Correct: The minstrel boy will return one day When we hear the news we all will cheer it, The Minstrel Boy will return we pray, Torn perhaps in body, not in spirit. If ya care.
the song shows that the minstrel boy refused to play music while he was held in captivity. i think this is reminiscent of an ancient jewish legend. i think the ancient jews had a tale where some jews were taken as captives, and the jews refrained from playing music while they were in captivity, and the tale wound up in the christian bible. i 1st heard "the minstrel boy" about 20 years ago when i saw roger whittaker do it on tv. he said it was an irish song, and other sources say it as well.
@coventrygardens nah, it's about the irish rebellion of 1798. The guy who wrote it lost several friends in the fighting. I don't know the whole story.
@arabiancowofdeath sure, it was about the irish rebellion, and yet it reminds me of that ancient legend about the jews not playing music in captivity. i wonder whether, in real life, there was a minstrel boy who destroyed his musical instrument in order to avoid being ordered to play while in captivity.
I come back to the rendition of this song periodically on YouTube. We pray for peace; it won't come, but we can long for it, and we can find it in our own hearts.
I think it was written by Thomas Moore, in memory of his friends & fellow students at TCD. - Wolfe Tone, Robert Emmet, etc. who took part in, or died in the 1798 rebellion.
Moore chose the melody of the Moreen, a very old traditional Irish air.
This is by far my favorite rendition of this song. This and when done by a drum and fife corp. I think it sounds better as a slow lament rather then trying to speed it up.
Love the song, and an excellent rendition. I do have to say though, I would have preferred if it finished up after the second verse, which would be the end of the original version. As correctly pointed out in the description, the last verse did not come from the pen of Thomas Moore, but rather was tagged on much later by persons unknown - and unfortunately, you can really tell. The words really don't fit in with the cadence of the song. Nice sentiment and all that, but I it sounds out of place.
The last verse was sung by Irish soldiers during the American Civil War. Even if it doesn't fit too well with the rest of the lyrics, it's appropriate in this setting. And it makes the ending sound happier, which isn't everybody's thing, but I like it.
Outstanding. The drum ives it a very martial air, and it does just as well with one as it does with the sad, lyric quality all the other renditions give it. This one is like a march up to the cannon's mouth.
Awesome song. Made by a brit for the his irish friends and the Irish in general during their revolution. Ilove this song, this guy does a good version.
Origimally like Jeannie this started life as a poem by Sir Thomas Moore the music was added later and as with a lot of songs of that era due to the instruments and the composition of the bands that played it thier music held a slimilar beat and tempo
Charlie told that part of the story but I didn't tape the hole thing! Tripods are nice and steady to allow longer taping but this wasn't done that way. Informal keeps the performance more "real"!
This is by far the best recording of this song that I have heard. It makes my spine tingle. Not an easy thing to do. There is such conviction and emotion in it that you find yourself transported through time to who knows when. I'm sure everyone goes somewhere different.
@mmcrosbie This is not the same melody as "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair," which is a song written by Stephen Foster. The two songs really don't sound similar to me at all.
This is really incredible -- the voice is perfect for this song. And although I was skeptical with just a bodhran for back-up, its a great, almost chilling renditon of a wonderful song.
A sharp song that speaks of Freedom, Liberty, and Justice and how to have them, you must pay in blood, sweat, and tears. To have them is a long and hard road, but the rewards are priceless.
But... Um... Who is he? I don't even have basic television.
I am a piper with the emt/rescue/firefighter and a reservist with the us navy this one was played for a retired us marine 1st sgt. and i was crying while piping it, its the perfect song to a fallen warrior, or fallen service worker, so 'TIL DEATH!
I am using this song as part of my Thesis Presentation at the Master of Arts Colloquium, Prescott College, Feb. 2008. My degree will be in Humanities: Bardic Storytelling. This is a wonderful rendition of a piece of both Irish and American history!
any 1 know wher i can find the full verson of this song? iv been serching for it. i can get most of the whole song but the 1s iv found end at "thy song were made for the pure and free, they shall never sound in slavery" some one help me plz
MAN!! you have inspired me to emulate what you have done here in this song -- well im only 3 months into the Bodhran but I WILL do it thank you so much --inspirational !!! God Bless ya
this is a beautiful song. to think the one thing that meant something to someone and that he'd rather have that last sacred object slandered by an enemy that hed rather tear its chords asunder is truely inspiring. its a real beautiful song. i love it.
this was great the first time i heared this song was in Startrek the next generation episode called the wounded. You do this song justice my unit sings this on maneuvers Well done
Charlie so wonderful..thanks you for your expentise musical ability and wonderful vocals ....quite superb kep up the god work ..ulster man ..yorkshire england
This is quite superb..as an ulster man i love this ..fantastic keep up the good work..immense singing and timing good on ya lad !! As guys once went over the top at the some the would have had this in theor minds ..thanks you
Impeccably done, and with a remarkable martial sound to it thanks to the bodhran (and obviously Mr. Zahm's arrangement with that as his sole musical accompaniment). A rich, manly, powerful voice with a good vocal range. Can you say too many good things about the song as rendered by Mr. Zahm? I think not. Thoroughly enjoyable.
classic -1798 Wexford rebellion-however it was still Dublin that rose alone in 1916.LOL=However The Brave Wexford Men-and also used by US/Irish Regiments during the American Civil War-This song is over 200 years old
Amazing rendition but what the heck is he wearing?
legallyawesome1 1 month ago
I love this song. Charlie always does a great job singing. He's one of my all time favorite singers. :)
KittyKatHill 2 months ago
man peace
Gztz168 3 months ago
I'm French but i love this song <3
xXmirmidonxX27 4 months ago
Thomas Moore would be turning in his grave calling him "Sir" Thomas Moore. He was an Irishman through and through as is the song which is from an old Irish air. Well done Charlie. You have done the song and the countless Irish who have fought and died for American and Irish freedom proud.
GolfEuropeTV 5 months ago
@GolfEuropeTV Thomas Moore had no poblem with the title.
TheSirPrise 4 months ago
well done
Kaldhore 5 months ago
Beautiful. Just beautiful... Thanks for uploading, man. This song always have me at tears.
hstac09 6 months ago
What I like about him is he sings with his soul. He never uses electronic devices to make hhim sound better, he just puts his heart and soul into his music. I also like that he makes the stories in his songs come alive. Can you see the minstril boy fighting on the battle ground and a world without bitterness and war?
MsCatlover1994 6 months ago
This song is amazing!!! Charlie Zahm has such a rich voice.
MsCatlover1994 7 months ago
As an American-Filipino who grew up in (what was once) a predominately Irish neighborhood, this song brings back alot of memories of my childhood. This was probably the first song I learned how to sing. It's not until now I know the origins of this wonderful tune. Awesome video!!
DoryokuFiripin 8 months ago
Just brilliant
manormaid 8 months ago
this is cool. i wanna hear this guy sing over some pipes
LedZepp1193 9 months ago
This is by far the best version of this song that I've found on Youtube, and the only one that includes the last verse.
XantheBard 9 months ago
@XantheBard It always brings tears to my eyes. Charlie Zahm's rendition is brilliant and the words are pure magic. The third verse is a later addition by an anonymous writer but it totally completes the song.
gavinsealey 8 months ago
Amazing voice!!
bestreading 10 months ago
A wonderful voice, and an inspiring performance! May I ask - 'What is the uniform?' Many thanks!
46142mwalton 10 months ago
@46142mwalton It looks like the shell jacket of the 5th New York Volunteer Infantry, based on the Zouave style of the French army.
candr 9 months ago
@candr Right state my Zahm expert says "Charlie represents a member of the 79th New York Volunteers.
The first few hundred men of the 79th were either Scottish or Scottish-American"
markay1 9 months ago
why is this guy not better known
jethro035181 11 months ago
Unbelievable!
TheSolomoja 11 months ago
It's not often that a singer puts cold chills down my back from the sheer power of his voice. Charlie Zahm succeeded.
All I can say is. . .wow.
Wolfeblayde 1 year ago
Bloody good job. I watched this be sung on Star Trek and had to find a good rendition on the internet to hear it all. His voice is made for this.
KannaBlade 1 year ago
what a voice...
Sturmmann 1 year ago
Kevster4569 1 year ago
the song shows that the minstrel boy refused to play music while he was held in captivity. i think this is reminiscent of an ancient jewish legend. i think the ancient jews had a tale where some jews were taken as captives, and the jews refrained from playing music while they were in captivity, and the tale wound up in the christian bible. i 1st heard "the minstrel boy" about 20 years ago when i saw roger whittaker do it on tv. he said it was an irish song, and other sources say it as well.
coventrygardens 1 year ago
@coventrygardens nah, it's about the irish rebellion of 1798. The guy who wrote it lost several friends in the fighting. I don't know the whole story.
arabiancowofdeath 1 year ago
@arabiancowofdeath sure, it was about the irish rebellion, and yet it reminds me of that ancient legend about the jews not playing music in captivity. i wonder whether, in real life, there was a minstrel boy who destroyed his musical instrument in order to avoid being ordered to play while in captivity.
coventrygardens 1 year ago
@coventrygardens Well, it's certainly a nice thought.
cameramanAL 1 year ago
good song :)
NaziZombiefan82 1 year ago
He has a great voice!!!!!!!!! Love it-and the song tOOOOO!!!!
PiccoloGirl1612 1 year ago
this is the civil war version
pothead26 1 year ago
love this song
pothead26 1 year ago
Awesome stuff.
emarine 1 year ago
A real artist!
PEPEDEBARRO 1 year ago
what a great rendition
Weezzuul 1 year ago
I come back to the rendition of this song periodically on YouTube. We pray for peace; it won't come, but we can long for it, and we can find it in our own hearts.
quadie12 1 year ago
I love this song and his voice so much!
GuoBia 1 year ago
i agree with the lady at the end of the video..."wow"
amazing voice.
gomemphistigers1 1 year ago
*salutes*
jimswe 1 year ago
Magnificent song, magnificent singer!
Greetings!
MosIonTaranul 1 year ago
just wut i need 4 my project...thnx... : P
Shizune365gmail 1 year ago
This is a beautiful rendition. Thanks for uploading.
destr0yth3m 1 year ago
this man has a very strong voice
promotecheese2010 1 year ago
this man has a very strong voice
promotecheese2010 1 year ago
Beautifully performed.
Cusheydoo 1 year ago
Beautifully performed.
Cusheydoo 1 year ago
god save ireland
higgykicks 1 year ago
I heard this first on Star Trek... heehee. Thank you so much for your version! Love your voice. =)
SarahberryKitten 1 year ago
@SarahberryKitten The one with Chief O Brian and the other dude?
austinvanderlyn 1 year ago
Extraordinary ! - an outstanding performance ! 5*
gipskull 1 year ago
I think it was written by Thomas Moore, in memory of his friends & fellow students at TCD. - Wolfe Tone, Robert Emmet, etc. who took part in, or died in the 1798 rebellion.
Moore chose the melody of the Moreen, a very old traditional Irish air.
Heckyweck 2 years ago
Awesome!!
peppyvalina 2 years ago
The song speaks in volumes...I literally broke into tears as that meaning soared into my heart..Bravo, Bravo!
AUGundam 2 years ago
Very Good Charlie!!!
schecter5strg 2 years ago
btw the drums called a Bodhrán.
PlentyofTorrents 2 years ago
Never thought I'd like an American version. Very good!
PlentyofTorrents 2 years ago
This is by far my favorite rendition of this song. This and when done by a drum and fife corp. I think it sounds better as a slow lament rather then trying to speed it up.
Starpolo7 2 years ago
this dood can sing!
CptnCorn 2 years ago
Stirring song. Wonderful rendition.
TheFoxfireFarm 2 years ago
I always think of Star Trek when I hear this song because of that one TNG episode where Chief O'Brien sings it.
CptBenjaminSisko 2 years ago
Charlie Zahm is the best, and so is this song.
CptBenjaminSisko 2 years ago
Damn, that was an amazing rendition. Powerful voice.
Rometiklan 2 years ago
Excellent rendition. The bodhrán works quite well with this song.
Lathlynde 2 years ago
This song is played very well. he has an amazing voice!
firelass12 2 years ago
HOOAH!!!
paratrooper629 2 years ago
This is the first time I ever heard of Charlie Zahm, I'm glad I stumbled onto this video. He's a great singer, love it.
irishghetto 2 years ago
Love the song, and an excellent rendition. I do have to say though, I would have preferred if it finished up after the second verse, which would be the end of the original version. As correctly pointed out in the description, the last verse did not come from the pen of Thomas Moore, but rather was tagged on much later by persons unknown - and unfortunately, you can really tell. The words really don't fit in with the cadence of the song. Nice sentiment and all that, but I it sounds out of place.
suilfisean 2 years ago
I disagree, but mostly because I've never found a version of this where that verse was actually sung. I've always wanted to hear it, and I like it.
That and he's wearing a Civil War uniform, so it fits the time he's apparently drawing it from.
JBurdoo 2 years ago
The last verse was sung by Irish soldiers during the American Civil War. Even if it doesn't fit too well with the rest of the lyrics, it's appropriate in this setting. And it makes the ending sound happier, which isn't everybody's thing, but I like it.
canadarox14 2 years ago
Great Man Great Country
US of A
ByzanzRebel 2 years ago
Whoa that guys got some lungs on him =oO And not too bad with the bodhran either...
BardofSeattle 2 years ago
Amazing!!!!
You should make a CD!!!
Johndunbar116 2 years ago
Very Nice dude
Kaldhore 2 years ago
Outstanding. The drum ives it a very martial air, and it does just as well with one as it does with the sad, lyric quality all the other renditions give it. This one is like a march up to the cannon's mouth.
Lassann 2 years ago
very nice
Schmidt1942 2 years ago
sounds great!
gazoorap 2 years ago
bloody good show!
bravo bravo
gazoorap 2 years ago
This is a good version of this song. I think he gets alot of the emotion, and essence of the song in his version. Good job mate.
johncrighto 2 years ago
Awesome song. Made by a brit for the his irish friends and the Irish in general during their revolution. Ilove this song, this guy does a good version.
johncrighto 2 years ago
Holy crap. After watching this, I actually said aloud: "Charlie Zahm, where have you been all my life?!?" lol! He is rockin on that drum, no lie!!!
tesstheroo 2 years ago
Absolutely perfect! Will see Charlie perform for the first time Sunday evening in Bellevue, PA..I'm really looking forward to it!
glamourygreen9 2 years ago
Origimally like Jeannie this started life as a poem by Sir Thomas Moore the music was added later and as with a lot of songs of that era due to the instruments and the composition of the bands that played it thier music held a slimilar beat and tempo
wbmstr8028 2 years ago
Charlie told that part of the story but I didn't tape the hole thing! Tripods are nice and steady to allow longer taping but this wasn't done that way. Informal keeps the performance more "real"!
markay1 2 years ago
This is by far the best recording of this song that I have heard. It makes my spine tingle. Not an easy thing to do. There is such conviction and emotion in it that you find yourself transported through time to who knows when. I'm sure everyone goes somewhere different.
Thank you Charlie Zahm and well done.
gerry1549 2 years ago
I would agree, one of the best recording I have ever heard of the song. Charlie is a great singer, hope he gets out to Denver
BroodofLoki 2 years ago
Just AWESOMENESS! 10/5
hezbollah95818 2 years ago
Okay, so did they steal this melody for "I Dream of Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair?"
mmcrosbie 2 years ago
This came first.
markay1 2 years ago
That makes sense, and come to think of it, it really isn't the same melody - just similar.
mmcrosbie 2 years ago
@mmcrosbie This is not the same melody as "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair," which is a song written by Stephen Foster. The two songs really don't sound similar to me at all.
SchoeneTante 5 months ago
ah, that was wonderful. a very sonorous voice, thank you!
belovedblackdragon 2 years ago
HOLY JESUS.
his voice is beautiful <333
dayummitssam 2 years ago
This is really incredible -- the voice is perfect for this song. And although I was skeptical with just a bodhran for back-up, its a great, almost chilling renditon of a wonderful song.
csrbre317 2 years ago
hey oi great charlie
AlsterBoiz1887 2 years ago
Such a beautiful voice.
soldiergirl84 2 years ago
Happy St Patrick's Day 2009 Charlie, lovely version of one of my favorites. Stainte!
MissileMist 2 years ago
Wow... that's such a great voice... I agree with qimissung, it sent chills down my spine too
Nillbugwtw 3 years ago
WOW!!! Amazing!!! x x
baig1962000 3 years ago
Makes you feel like marching to the gates of hell,-
- looking for the bad guys
mustafaweewee 3 years ago
nice
riddertje9 3 years ago
love this song
oliver8758 3 years ago
Amazing
drumman360 3 years ago
Sends chills down my spine!
qimissung 3 years ago
Give me a voice like that!
DonCazino 3 years ago
I love this song! I love his voice, too!
RikerTroiData 3 years ago
great song great singin
killah20100 3 years ago
he has the perfect voice for the song!
Cosmeticmexx 3 years ago
realy good i love it
Cosmeticmexx 3 years ago
where can i get this guy's music?
mbcNOOFS 3 years ago
you have a great voice!!!
merp4rlz 3 years ago
AWESOME.
Xendinthian 3 years ago
Great Irish Song
yingyangsang1 3 years ago
If this isn't the most beautiful song ever written in the history of man, then nothing is...
Smitheeboy94 3 years ago
Brilliant, uplifting, inspirational. Best version I've seen
tpflynn2 3 years ago
He's really an incredibly talented guy!!! Probably the best version of heard of this song.
littlenookie1 3 years ago
Hell yes, much better then that version that was done for black hawk down
Celestiusdeath 3 years ago
i haven't heard this song in so long thw way hes sings it is the best vertion i've eard yet
2ndsquad2 3 years ago
wow...this guy is awesome!!!
maibabymike 3 years ago
that was amazin.i hope this guy is rich and famous.
Macfosters 3 years ago
Amen!!!
neielk 3 years ago
one of the best irish patriotic songs ever written! great bodhrán playing too!
HandyAndy39 3 years ago
I dont't get tired of liston to this song. It's so patriotic lol
kHovsT 3 years ago
This is AWESOME!!! Great job
dan3255 3 years ago
Lord, how I do love this song! What a wonderful arrangement with just the drum counting cadence. Very powerful stuff!
ufgatorpaw 3 years ago
amazing
highlander924 3 years ago
Fabulous!
Thanks for posting.
xhorseyx 3 years ago
Man has a masculine voice. Awesome song. One of my favorite.....
JeremyFromTexas 3 years ago
A sharp song that speaks of Freedom, Liberty, and Justice and how to have them, you must pay in blood, sweat, and tears. To have them is a long and hard road, but the rewards are priceless.
But... Um... Who is he? I don't even have basic television.
FLJBeliever1776 3 years ago
This man is amazing!
ZeroTheHero88 4 years ago
I am a piper with the emt/rescue/firefighter and a reservist with the us navy this one was played for a retired us marine 1st sgt. and i was crying while piping it, its the perfect song to a fallen warrior, or fallen service worker, so 'TIL DEATH!
devildoc1stmc 4 years ago
great!
sharecroppermike 4 years ago
incredible voice. Love to listen to this.
docrosko 4 years ago
spectacular voice!!
docrosko 4 years ago
This is a song that can really inspire you to believe in freedom. awesome video,great stuff
algs229635 4 years ago
sharp!!!
speculous 4 years ago
Beautiful!
thebeano1985 4 years ago 2
Simply amazing!!! What a voice, and what a story! Thank you for sharing
jbakerwwpd 4 years ago 4
great version of a great song
tylerwilliams14 4 years ago 4
AWESOME PERFORMANCE!
2BETUBE 4 years ago 3
Superb version of a wonderful song.
Heartfelt thanks.
JellySensei 4 years ago 3
The best rendition ever, slow and proud. Hoo-HA!
tanidn 4 years ago 3
I am using this song as part of my Thesis Presentation at the Master of Arts Colloquium, Prescott College, Feb. 2008. My degree will be in Humanities: Bardic Storytelling. This is a wonderful rendition of a piece of both Irish and American history!
marykmusic 4 years ago
Beautiful!
Prescott? is the William 'Bucky' O'Neill statue still there? RIP July 1st 1898
Cry evertime I hear this song
HisMajestyOKeefe 4 years ago
that's pretty cool
i like that song
resto776 4 years ago
The best rendition I have heard!!
oloveajob 4 years ago 2
The complete lyrics are in the "about this video" section.
markay1 4 years ago
he should do voice overs for anime Movies...
M14Recon 4 years ago
Excellent, brought shivers down my spine ^^
AegisGuard 4 years ago 5
Nicely done. Brought tears to my eyes.
theelephantbabar 4 years ago 6
any 1 know wher i can find the full verson of this song? iv been serching for it. i can get most of the whole song but the 1s iv found end at "thy song were made for the pure and free, they shall never sound in slavery" some one help me plz
mechwarriornut 4 years ago
Who is this man? His voice is beautiful, pure and manly. Is he a professional singer?
devilgothim1st 4 years ago 3
Pure, manly voice.
devilgothim1st 4 years ago 3
MAN!! you have inspired me to emulate what you have done here in this song -- well im only 3 months into the Bodhran but I WILL do it thank you so much --inspirational !!! God Bless ya
spudseamus 4 years ago
Give that man a record deal!
Moardieb 4 years ago 6
This man has a VERY powerful voice! Nicely done!
88M325TC 4 years ago 5
cool
resto776 4 years ago 3
For all the bitterness of man must cease,
And ev'ry battle must be ended
Wolfe075 4 years ago
great stuff thanks
attackers5 4 years ago 3
Oh. Wow. His voice is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for this.
Branwhin 4 years ago 3
Well Sung!
Leander109 4 years ago 2
so great love the bodhran i play me self . wel dne
saintjemimahelen 4 years ago
WOW!
gregbhere 4 years ago 4
this is a beautiful song. to think the one thing that meant something to someone and that he'd rather have that last sacred object slandered by an enemy that hed rather tear its chords asunder is truely inspiring. its a real beautiful song. i love it.
brotherdevil 4 years ago 3
WOW well done hese awesome
ZONAS11 4 years ago 2
this was great the first time i heared this song was in Startrek the next generation episode called the wounded. You do this song justice my unit sings this on maneuvers Well done
marine5l5 4 years ago
love it charlie shame i'm on of the few that would of fought against the yanks
oliver8758 4 years ago
Charlie so wonderful..thanks you for your expentise musical ability and wonderful vocals ....quite superb kep up the god work ..ulster man ..yorkshire england
rosstrichranger 4 years ago
This is quite superb..as an ulster man i love this ..fantastic keep up the good work..immense singing and timing good on ya lad !! As guys once went over the top at the some the would have had this in theor minds ..thanks you
rosstrichranger 4 years ago
Wonder how long he can hold a Note For...
M14Recon 4 years ago
Charlie you're an honorary Irishmen. Congrats but it's not easy being perfect
rockbullet 4 years ago
Impeccably done, and with a remarkable martial sound to it thanks to the bodhran (and obviously Mr. Zahm's arrangement with that as his sole musical accompaniment). A rich, manly, powerful voice with a good vocal range. Can you say too many good things about the song as rendered by Mr. Zahm? I think not. Thoroughly enjoyable.
chasl45488 4 years ago
wow...thats good..
xD
his voice is good...
bgirlxo 4 years ago
awesome.
cptgaryklein 4 years ago
classic -1798 Wexford rebellion-however it was still Dublin that rose alone in 1916.LOL=However The Brave Wexford Men-and also used by US/Irish Regiments during the American Civil War-This song is over 200 years old
erniepimlott 4 years ago
brilliant! He has excellent singing and can play the drum very well! most enjoyable, especially when its my favorite song. Thank you for posting this
Rommel555 4 years ago 2