nobody nails arthur mcbride quite like mr brady! as the loser in this song (i'm english) i have no problem with cheering arthur on. those squaddies got what was coming to them ... though, as a fellow musician, i do feel a bit sorry for the "little wee drummer".
This tune will always remind me of my honeymoon in 2005...Never got to Kerry as we had a car crash leaving Dublin. The tune fell out and was on the floor/roof amongst the shattered glass when i climbed out through the window after the car overturned from a side impact...me and the wife were very lucky...still love the tune though and purchased the very good DVD of Pauls to learn it in the DAD tuning :-)
I love the semi-subversive story. I feel like I've always loved that melody, since before I knew of it. Tremendous playing and singing. And the video's final seconds are a treat.
Brady's a fucking killer live. Nails this one to the wall, as usual. Wish somebody would put Nothing But the Same Old Story ( from the first album, Hard Station ) up on youtube though. It's THE ultimate brady track in my book .
can't remember if I've said this before, but this is the only song I've ever known Bob Dylan (yes I'm a fan) to have sung that is sung better by someone else, as far as I'm concerned, that is Paul Brady of course. Not so sexy, but FUCKING bad ass in this song.
@cadyscofe He didn't sing Hallelujah particularly well. And his former girlfriend, Joan Baez, may have out classed him on a folk song or two. Other than that, agree with you. As far as sex appeal, red hair is not immediately appealing on a man, but when one falls for a red head, the pleasure of their hair is part of the package.
@brelfan Oh I love his Hallelujah more than anyone else's for sure, at least the one that used to be on youtube. Really loved it. Joan Baez I suppose I can be pushed on too. And I totally agree with the red head part :)
@cadyscofe I didn't think Dylan's version improved Cohen's. But certainly big fan of both those guys. As far as red headed men, yeah. Doesn't seem like the first thing women look for, but have known of resentments and fights over the red head. "He had a red beard" -- reason enough to stop speaking to a friend for a month, I've learned from personal experience.
I wish there were artists like Paul Brady, he is my all time favorite folk singer and I listen to all types of trad. Noone comes close to the intensity of this lad live. Cheers Mr. Brady top man
Can't believe that everything I'm going to say hasn't been said below...but here goes anyway: a folk masterpiece--just listen to the language--sung by a modern master. A first class ballad, almost a play set to music, complete with characters, plot, dialog, punch-lines and a happy ending. If that isn't enough, we get Paul's wonderful smile at the end and the applause of the recording crew. Some fun, tomt!
Check out Dougie McLean singing Auld Lang Syne with lyrics throughout - otherwise it's really hard to understand - gaelic is a cool language, not dead yet because of a college in Cape Breton (Canada)
Do you know why beer steins had glass put into the bottom? The Brits would recruit Irish and Scot men and en script them into service by tossing a coin into their drinks, cheer the king - meant that you accepted wages and were now officially enlisted. With glass at the bottom of the stein a fella could see if there was a coin in it and choose not to enlist. Those crafty fellas!
@7808521113 The way I heard it was that Cavaliers on the run from Cromwell's dragoons or fugitive Irish raparees needed glass bottomed tankards so they could watch the front door of the tavern while drinking their ale. If pursuers came to capture them, they still had a chance to escape. I like both your story and mine, but I think only the Germans know the real reason!
I do think that lyrics/content are very important, especially in historical tales such as this one. And to end the discussion once and for all: there is absolutely no reason at all to think that the two soldiers, nor the (third) wee drummer, were killed. Two intrusive, agressive and lying soldiers got a good and well deserved thrashing with a shillelagh by two Irish gentlemen.
What do you all think about Dylan´s version, unfortunately never played live?
@brelfan I agree with you. Funny enough, Dylan sings it like a campfire story, a story that must not be forgotten over the years. Paul Brady sings it with fire in his eyes, as if he was there on that hill wielding a shillelagh himself!! Interestingly enough, Dylan put it on his first "traditional" album, low-down and out, no inspiration whatsoever, set down in his basement studio and supposedly recorded the entire album without sheet-music, just from memory.
@mrRaadsman I stumbled onto this song a week ago. Never heard of Brady before and can't stop listening to him now. I work from home so I can tap his songs much of the day while at work. As far as Dylan, I read that Brady is among a handful of artists he listens to regularly. I can see why. I think Dylan's improved over the years to become one of the best American folk singers, if what you like is a great, moving story. Then I find out some red headed, Irish kid outstripped him on a few songs.
@brelfan Yes, I agree and that's the way it should be! Dylan was outstripped on a few songs by the likes of Dave van Ronk as well. I work from home as well and listen lots of music, including the "musician's musicians". I think Dylan would have been pretty nervous shaking the hand of Townes van Zandt! By the way, there's this new singer/songwriter, just got his first CD out. I think he's an enormous talent, called "Dan Wilde"; there are a few good songs by him on youtube. Check him out!
@brelfan Well, what I really love about Dan Wilde is that he's one of the very very few artists that really start/are inspired by classics, traditionalists, old-school guirarists: I mean, a young fellow singing "Lakes of Pontchartrain" or "Arthur McBride" at festivals...we must encourage them, otherwise these songs will actually be forgotten. No Lady Ga Ga will keep those gems alive. Furthermore, I think it's important that lyrics will actually become a matter of importance again.
@mrRaadsman I found a few young people who've written some nice lyrics since Youtubing often. There's a kid, Josh Ritter, who's written some fine songs. Also The Tallest Man on Earth and someone who seems even less popular, Doug Burr. I listen to a folk station on my satellite service and hear these children. Also, the band that wrote One Crowded Hour is very good, can't think of its name. Johnny Depp has spoken well of this band in public. Nice lyrics.
i dont pay attention to lyrics the melody and chord structure is awsome lol thats why i need lyric books when i sing its the melody but the irish have right to sing the blues and american people have the freedom to speak at least for now lol
Look dudes, even if these cousins killed the English soldiers, they are SOLDIERS. They were in Ireland to marginalize the Irish and uphold the mandate of the British empire. They were there to ensure the Irish didn't gain enough power to represent themselves. Plus these soldiers attempted to draw their swords. I don't know about you guys but when someone is drawing their sword they intend to use it or at least force me to do something against my will. When that happens all bets are off.
@plevyman I've seen him live many times, even his own website says the tuning is open G but thanks, I will try what you suggest and see how it sounds. All said and done a great song and Paul is a wonderful player. Listen to Dick Gaughan if you get a chance he is amazing in a similar way. Thanks for you comment.
I think it's CGDGBD - if you listen you can hear the (beautiful) low C in the C major chord; also, if you look when he's playing the D chord he uses his second finger or his thumb on the bottom string.
I've often heard "with our trusty shillelaighles we bashed in their heads" and a dozen other variations on this song. Even if you hate the Irish, you've got to love the Irish!
A great song. Not about how the world should be, have been, or otherwise, just a great song. It's violent, yeh, but it's really about the spunk and spirit of the Irish more than anything else.
Really that is usually the same. I hope you don't love that line because it sounds like a de-armorment line, because they only lost their swords after they lost their heads. Still, great line!
Why would you ever leave? I was there this past Christmas through New year's, and they had to practically shove me onto the airplane to come home when my stay was done! I love this tune and can play it on concertina, button accordion or whistles!
Paul Brady does the definitive version of this song in my book. Be sure to check out the video of him from 1977 as well. Hard to decide which I like better.
ersion 1974 then 1977 and now this, watch them all and notice the evolvement of each!!!! This ersion is my favourite, picking is more defined ad the voice has more expression, but all quality. Dylan, who i have great admiration for, really slaughtered this song,
Beautiful song - and when Dylan recorded it, it was as an anti-war song.....To me it was sung as a polite refusal to be conscripted in to an army, " for if you insult me with one other word, I'll cut off your heads in the morning, " The Sergeants words, not McBrides.... Some people should listen to the whole song, not just cherry pick certain lyrics to suit some wierdo agenda.
this always reminds me of my 23rd birthday, in my friends house out in the sticks, on the outskirts of Larne county Antrim. We gave a fine rendition of this round the oul log fire. i wonder what other strange corners of the world Paul's music has travelled to?!
It has traveled to Gun Barrel City, Texas today my fine Irish brother! I have listened to this song so many times I can't count. What a pure account of this ancient folk song from it's birthplace. Paul Brady should be toasted across your grand Isle and never experience thirst in all his days !!!!!
And can I ask, do you see the Scots across the way as any kind of foreigner?
For what's worth, Antrim is like a wee bit extension of Ayrshire to me in some ways. The Ulster-Scots tongue, and the look towards her. I'm just asking, where do you see as home?
Dead right to bash up them brits, as if we'd fight against our allies who were the french at that time..... Cromwell savaged the irish by the way, and this is only a song and a great one at that.. Up Limerick!!
You all should stop arguing about the content of the song and just enjoy the performance. You're putting to much thought into all of this. It's a great story and Paul Brady is a great talent...so shut up and enjoy.
It says they left them for dead, and that they asked if the soldiers would join them. Plus McBride was threated by the sergeant when they had done nothing but refuse to enlist for a pitiful bounty, and outright lies. For example "he pays all his debts" and "he always eats the best food", and "he always has a fine wife." This is arrant nonsense. Kipling always wrote that there was an army mantra "lieutenants can marry, captains may marry, generals must marry." I shouldn't have to explain THAT
In all diffrent versions i ever heard, their is nothing especially said that the two soldiers and/or the drummer boy are killed. the phrase of the shillaleigh "coming over their heads" is nothing more than beating them so that the soldiers flee, as a picture of the free man who wont bow a superior power. to interpret the shillaleigh fight as a action of murdering the soldiers is in my opinion a bit to harsh.
Has anyone else noticed how the pick-up sound on this guitar is inferior to the microphone set-up on the 77' recording. The earlier sound is much sweeter.
Listen magistr88, the broken record is starting to make you sound dumb. There is an explicit refutation of your theory that they kill this kid. When the song mentions their "two bloody backs" and "a pair of wet sacks" (pair means two) it is clearly only the sargeant and corporal. In fact, the song also says the cousins "left them for dead", which doesn't mean even these two were killed. A folk song may have variants that could make you right, but this variant shows you not paying attention.
a beautiful ending :-) job well done paul and forever remind your countrymen to laugh at the very idea of being anyone's cannon fodder. it is so good to see that paul has the strength to keep on and on performing this song through all these years and with so much grace, passion and humour.
The song originated in Donegal according to the sleeve notes from the Irvine and Brady Album/1977. This version comes from Limerick apparently which was a British Army Garrison town
Does anyone know the history behind this song? Just curious. I love Celtic music and Irish folk tunes. I'm not of Irish extraction but I love St. Paddy's Day. It's one of my favorite holidays. I usually drink too much green beer and feel like Arthur McBride beat me over the head in the mornin' :)
The song is a soldier's song about two irishmen that are tried to be conscripted into the British army. I'm guessing it's around the Napoleonic wars because it talks about being sent to France. Knowing that the story comes out of the song.
A shillelagh (Irish: sail éille, a cudgel with a strap), commonly pronounced /ʃɪˈleɪli/ "shi-LAY-lee" or "shi-LAY-la", IPA: [ɕaˈleːlə]) is a wooden club or cudgel, typically made from a stout knotty stick with a large knob on the end, that is associated with Ireland and Irish folklore.
I like the song and think after what they did in Ireland, especially Cromwell's invasion, the English deserved what we call an ass woopin, but I still think it's cruel to kill a kid but like a general in our Civil War said, war is hell.
With their trusty shilleleaghes (sp?) or clubs they smashed in their heads. When you bash out somebody's brains with a club, they're not going anywhere. Anyway, a grown man beating a kid upside the head with a club isn't very sporting I wouldn't say.
A shilleleagh is a short sword, similar to a Roman sword! And who cares, the English had ruled Ireland for hundreds of years against popular rule, Any solidier was fair game!
Men fighting men I can understand. Two men attacking a kid with a weapon seems pretty low. But, it's just a song. I always heard a shilleleagh was a stick but I'll take your word for it.
Sorry but it says, "we scarce gave them time for to draw their own blades, when a trusty shillaleigh came over their heads." The drummer wouldn't be packing a blade, just a set of drum sticks. The song then goes on to say, "AND the little, wee drummer we flattened his pow." This implies that his fate is different from the Sergeant and Corporal. I also doubt weather a shilaliegh blow to the head would've killed the two soldiers. They are made from blackthorn which is quite light.
No, the song says:"With our trusty shillalieghs we bashed in their heads." It doesn't say that the drummer was spared. I've seen pictures of walking sticks and their actually made of pretty solid wood, perfectly capable of dispatching someone if you hit them over the head with it. Anyway, it's just a song. A violent song, and a way different version of the Little Drummer Boy than what I'm used to, but just a song.
it is very capable of killing a person, they are very soild and a swift blow could easily cause internal bleeding in the head leading to death. Perhaps this is a test for myth busters!
The text is clear in the verse that follows - "two bloody backs" & "pair of wet sacks". I think the problem is you jumped on something you felt smart to notice, but you didn't test it yourself before bringing it to the forum.
wow wow!!incase any of u r thinkin taht i was sayin that paul brady was a prik ,i wasnt i was replying to BENNIE777'S comment PAUL BRADY IS A FUKIN LEGEND.
The first time we heard this version in the mid-seventies we couldn't believe the magnificent guitar arrangement - we already knew the voice could soar like no one else - pure majic.
oh not at all im just sayin thats the words although i do notice that in this version he does say country but if you watch the Arthur McBride - Paul Brady 1977 version it says company
fair play to you Paul- the true definition of a great Irish singer songwriter !Walked down memory lane with this one - Keeping the tradtion alive - top stuff :D
due respect, for their was rumblings of revolt in Irelands green isle, at this time in history, make no mistake, any Irishman conscripted or volunteering saw it not as a opportunity to fight the on-slaught of the hun tryany, but rather to gain valuable military training for their own fight in history.
Absolutely unique rendition - the fusion of voice melody and playing puts this right off the scale - but did he ever get the credit, apart from fellow musicians who just stand in awe?.
For those of you who don't cruise the folk music alleys of the internet and of the world, this is the benchmark version of this song. None do it better tnan Paul Brady. He is a most briliant guitarist and singer.
A friend who used to sing Arthur McBride sent me this link. I've always loved Paul Brady's singing and guitar playing, as he sings with a heartbreaking passion, so full of life and the beautiful voice of a gifted and wonderful singer, musician.
This is among the most beautiful songs and versions I've heard him sing and so great to find it here.
May Paul Brady live long and continue to bless us with his heartfelt voice and playing.
Not the first world war, the Napoleonic wars. The vocabulary and the phrasing of the grammar in the lyrics dates it to around then. Words like "spalpeen" and "rapier" haven't been in common use for a very long time indeed. Also, it wasn't a flogging offence to modify a military uniform during the first world war.
Whatever....I split hairs. It's a terrific piece of verse and no one plays it better than Paul.
Good tune but his 1977 version has more balance between voice and guitar and is far superior.
rockertyronedude 2 weeks ago in playlist More videos from tomtscotland
what a beautiful tune to a song, could listen to this a million times and still want more...
funnybo5 3 weeks ago
the drummer made the beat of tyranny
ringsafe1 4 weeks ago
Man what a great song! I shall lift a pint of Guiness to this masterpiece!
coolanddark 1 month ago
One more reason to absolutely love good music
krakonosNL 1 month ago
nobody nails arthur mcbride quite like mr brady! as the loser in this song (i'm english) i have no problem with cheering arthur on. those squaddies got what was coming to them ... though, as a fellow musician, i do feel a bit sorry for the "little wee drummer".
FeatherTones 1 month ago
what a song! we irish are awesome
Sparkavich 2 months ago
paul brady...nothing more to say...
amokreutz 3 months ago
This tune will always remind me of my honeymoon in 2005...Never got to Kerry as we had a car crash leaving Dublin. The tune fell out and was on the floor/roof amongst the shattered glass when i climbed out through the window after the car overturned from a side impact...me and the wife were very lucky...still love the tune though and purchased the very good DVD of Pauls to learn it in the DAD tuning :-)
castlecureall 3 months ago
I love the semi-subversive story. I feel like I've always loved that melody, since before I knew of it. Tremendous playing and singing. And the video's final seconds are a treat.
raudiobrown 5 months ago
have always admired your music, lyrics very much. Best wishes X
TheMeanlilmama 6 months ago
Great song. Clap clap.
101truthhurts 6 months ago
I love to compare this with earlier versions of his. He has lived with this song and the story gets better with the telling
timmots 7 months ago
Its always nice to hear Paul Brady, love the discipline when he play guitars ten out of ten.
GeorGeH205 7 months ago
Beautiful, word's, delivery, content.
MultiKevmac 7 months ago
Beautiful!
unbeatable1966 8 months ago
what can you say
written by a true Irish Bard and sung by a true Irish bard
ruawow 9 months ago
wonderful music love it
graconis 9 months ago
wow ......brillant .....talent in its most pure form ....Mr Brady i salut you ....
TheACROPOLISS 9 months ago
Brady's a fucking killer live. Nails this one to the wall, as usual. Wish somebody would put Nothing But the Same Old Story ( from the first album, Hard Station ) up on youtube though. It's THE ultimate brady track in my book .
dermotwalker 11 months ago
Guitar tuning and tab available on the Paul Brady website.
jimbozy 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
anyone have the tuning hes using here?
yahoochiewatchie 11 months ago
anyone have the tuning hes using her?
yahoochiewatchie 11 months ago
@yahoochiewatchie its open G he uses. Google it and you should be able to find out how to do it
ttomleddy 11 months ago
can't remember if I've said this before, but this is the only song I've ever known Bob Dylan (yes I'm a fan) to have sung that is sung better by someone else, as far as I'm concerned, that is Paul Brady of course. Not so sexy, but FUCKING bad ass in this song.
cadyscofe 1 year ago
@cadyscofe He didn't sing Hallelujah particularly well. And his former girlfriend, Joan Baez, may have out classed him on a folk song or two. Other than that, agree with you. As far as sex appeal, red hair is not immediately appealing on a man, but when one falls for a red head, the pleasure of their hair is part of the package.
brelfan 1 year ago
@brelfan Oh I love his Hallelujah more than anyone else's for sure, at least the one that used to be on youtube. Really loved it. Joan Baez I suppose I can be pushed on too. And I totally agree with the red head part :)
cadyscofe 11 months ago
@cadyscofe I didn't think Dylan's version improved Cohen's. But certainly big fan of both those guys. As far as red headed men, yeah. Doesn't seem like the first thing women look for, but have known of resentments and fights over the red head. "He had a red beard" -- reason enough to stop speaking to a friend for a month, I've learned from personal experience.
brelfan 11 months ago
@cadyscofe Ever hear Hendrick's do "All Along the watchtower"?
callingraven 9 months ago
I wish there were artists like Paul Brady, he is my all time favorite folk singer and I listen to all types of trad. Noone comes close to the intensity of this lad live. Cheers Mr. Brady top man
tiocimarla 1 year ago
Arthur mcbride is ma grandpa name lol
dirtydiana122 1 year ago
Can't believe that everything I'm going to say hasn't been said below...but here goes anyway: a folk masterpiece--just listen to the language--sung by a modern master. A first class ballad, almost a play set to music, complete with characters, plot, dialog, punch-lines and a happy ending. If that isn't enough, we get Paul's wonderful smile at the end and the applause of the recording crew. Some fun, tomt!
McGrenzer 1 year ago
@McGrenzer
Check out Dougie McLean singing Auld Lang Syne with lyrics throughout - otherwise it's really hard to understand - gaelic is a cool language, not dead yet because of a college in Cape Breton (Canada)
7808521113 1 year ago
Do you know why beer steins had glass put into the bottom? The Brits would recruit Irish and Scot men and en script them into service by tossing a coin into their drinks, cheer the king - meant that you accepted wages and were now officially enlisted. With glass at the bottom of the stein a fella could see if there was a coin in it and choose not to enlist. Those crafty fellas!
7808521113 1 year ago
@7808521113 The way I heard it was that Cavaliers on the run from Cromwell's dragoons or fugitive Irish raparees needed glass bottomed tankards so they could watch the front door of the tavern while drinking their ale. If pursuers came to capture them, they still had a chance to escape. I like both your story and mine, but I think only the Germans know the real reason!
McGrenzer 1 year ago
closest to the original, i've heard in awhile... BEAUTIFUL ! I was singing along the whole way. Too bad it's never on the juke box!
nancydoman1 1 year ago
Just when was this video recorded? I have seen teh one from 1977, and I like that one. This one is good too, just different.
Shinji0Ikari007 1 year ago
I love that you can hear the bass in this version. Gives Michael Hedges a run for his money...
peteymac1971 1 year ago
Mr Brady does it just right x
philipnicol 1 year ago
Great performance of a great song!
I do think that lyrics/content are very important, especially in historical tales such as this one. And to end the discussion once and for all: there is absolutely no reason at all to think that the two soldiers, nor the (third) wee drummer, were killed. Two intrusive, agressive and lying soldiers got a good and well deserved thrashing with a shillelagh by two Irish gentlemen.
What do you all think about Dylan´s version, unfortunately never played live?
mrRaadsman 1 year ago
@mrRaadsman Like it. Dylan's a masterful folk singer. But Brady tops him on this one.
brelfan 1 year ago
@brelfan I agree with you. Funny enough, Dylan sings it like a campfire story, a story that must not be forgotten over the years. Paul Brady sings it with fire in his eyes, as if he was there on that hill wielding a shillelagh himself!! Interestingly enough, Dylan put it on his first "traditional" album, low-down and out, no inspiration whatsoever, set down in his basement studio and supposedly recorded the entire album without sheet-music, just from memory.
mrRaadsman 1 year ago
@mrRaadsman I stumbled onto this song a week ago. Never heard of Brady before and can't stop listening to him now. I work from home so I can tap his songs much of the day while at work. As far as Dylan, I read that Brady is among a handful of artists he listens to regularly. I can see why. I think Dylan's improved over the years to become one of the best American folk singers, if what you like is a great, moving story. Then I find out some red headed, Irish kid outstripped him on a few songs.
brelfan 1 year ago
@brelfan Yes, I agree and that's the way it should be! Dylan was outstripped on a few songs by the likes of Dave van Ronk as well. I work from home as well and listen lots of music, including the "musician's musicians". I think Dylan would have been pretty nervous shaking the hand of Townes van Zandt! By the way, there's this new singer/songwriter, just got his first CD out. I think he's an enormous talent, called "Dan Wilde"; there are a few good songs by him on youtube. Check him out!
mrRaadsman 1 year ago
@mrRaadsman Could be true. Some fine guitar picking among that bunch.
brelfan 1 year ago
@brelfan Well, what I really love about Dan Wilde is that he's one of the very very few artists that really start/are inspired by classics, traditionalists, old-school guirarists: I mean, a young fellow singing "Lakes of Pontchartrain" or "Arthur McBride" at festivals...we must encourage them, otherwise these songs will actually be forgotten. No Lady Ga Ga will keep those gems alive. Furthermore, I think it's important that lyrics will actually become a matter of importance again.
mrRaadsman 1 year ago
@mrRaadsman I found a few young people who've written some nice lyrics since Youtubing often. There's a kid, Josh Ritter, who's written some fine songs. Also The Tallest Man on Earth and someone who seems even less popular, Doug Burr. I listen to a folk station on my satellite service and hear these children. Also, the band that wrote One Crowded Hour is very good, can't think of its name. Johnny Depp has spoken well of this band in public. Nice lyrics.
brelfan 1 year ago
@mrRaadsman Dylan allegedly met Townes once.
hanshotfirst1138 1 year ago
i dont pay attention to lyrics the melody and chord structure is awsome lol thats why i need lyric books when i sing its the melody but the irish have right to sing the blues and american people have the freedom to speak at least for now lol
gm1600 1 year ago
Look dudes, even if these cousins killed the English soldiers, they are SOLDIERS. They were in Ireland to marginalize the Irish and uphold the mandate of the British empire. They were there to ensure the Irish didn't gain enough power to represent themselves. Plus these soldiers attempted to draw their swords. I don't know about you guys but when someone is drawing their sword they intend to use it or at least force me to do something against my will. When that happens all bets are off.
YossarianTheMeerkat 1 year ago
That is an AWESOME MASTERPIECE !!.....Paul Brady was not out to lunch when the good Lord gave out TALENT!!!!!
lanetemple 1 year ago
@plevyman I've seen him live many times, even his own website says the tuning is open G but thanks, I will try what you suggest and see how it sounds. All said and done a great song and Paul is a wonderful player. Listen to Dick Gaughan if you get a chance he is amazing in a similar way. Thanks for you comment.
getarslim 2 years ago
Awesome!
gofer03 2 years ago
@ primarkopolop, this is DGDGBD or open G try it
getarslim 2 years ago
I think it's CGDGBD - if you listen you can hear the (beautiful) low C in the C major chord; also, if you look when he's playing the D chord he uses his second finger or his thumb on the bottom string.
plevyman 2 years ago
@getarslim actually yeah your right open G
primarkopolop 1 year ago
@primarkopolop Thanks , lets all just enjoy the song anyway!
getarslim 1 year ago
I've often heard "with our trusty shillelaighles we bashed in their heads" and a dozen other variations on this song. Even if you hate the Irish, you've got to love the Irish!
SleepingBear1983 2 years ago
A great song. Not about how the world should be, have been, or otherwise, just a great song. It's violent, yeh, but it's really about the spunk and spirit of the Irish more than anything else.
bathsheba56 2 years ago
that it is! Erin go braugh!
SleepingBear1983 2 years ago
It's still the definitive performance of this great song! Mr. Brady, take a bow!
DonegalRaymie201 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Why so many violent vocals
Let us realise suffering can work both ways up the Republic
fudgie71 2 years ago
Why? Why are the Irish violent? Why do we like drinking and fighting and loving and living? ... Why indeed.
SleepingBear1983 2 years ago
Definitive Version....... without doubt
puntybangbang 2 years ago 9
I've known this song for years, but never heard this version ("Christmas morning...pleasant and charming").
The last lines of this song almost always bring me to tears:
"As for the old rapiers that hung by their sides,
We flung them as far as we could in the tide
'To the Devil I bid ye,' cried Arthur MacBride.
"Ye can temper your steel in the morning"
Awesome.
Isil1972 2 years ago 2
Yes a great song with great words and what shall I say of Mr Brady?.......Brilliant ;)
bbsb300 2 years ago 2
Really that is usually the same. I hope you don't love that line because it sounds like a de-armorment line, because they only lost their swords after they lost their heads. Still, great line!
SleepingBear1983 2 years ago
I like that line BECAUSE they lost their swords after they lost their heads.
Isil1972 2 years ago
i like this version better than the one from the 70s. somehow his aged voice fits well with the story...
paul brady's music was a great companion during my stay in Ireland from '97 to '99.
nypchung 2 years ago
Why would you ever leave? I was there this past Christmas through New year's, and they had to practically shove me onto the airplane to come home when my stay was done! I love this tune and can play it on concertina, button accordion or whistles!
samdogdamndog2 2 years ago
i like this version better as well
dragyourhalo 2 years ago
Just discovered Paul Brady and hes really refreshing.
Many thanks for sharing this Tom.
maximusdudeus 2 years ago
anyone know what tuning this is in?
jethro081 2 years ago
DGDGBD
A new one on me but it works
marcusdev 2 years ago
yeah its just open D
primarkopolop 2 years ago
i love this man more every time i see him.
shazam15 2 years ago
Paul Brady does the definitive version of this song in my book. Be sure to check out the video of him from 1977 as well. Hard to decide which I like better.
riverpotato 2 years ago
ersion 1974 then 1977 and now this, watch them all and notice the evolvement of each!!!! This ersion is my favourite, picking is more defined ad the voice has more expression, but all quality. Dylan, who i have great admiration for, really slaughtered this song,
ConorSod 2 years ago
I love this version. 1st time I'm listening to it. I also love Planxty's version. I am hoping for a whacking shillelagh for my birthday!
4beanman 2 years ago
Beautiful song - and when Dylan recorded it, it was as an anti-war song.....To me it was sung as a polite refusal to be conscripted in to an army, " for if you insult me with one other word, I'll cut off your heads in the morning, " The Sergeants words, not McBrides.... Some people should listen to the whole song, not just cherry pick certain lyrics to suit some wierdo agenda.
Aoifesmum1888 2 years ago
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R E S I S T
synapsecracklepop 2 years ago
I see Paul Brady as the irish John Denver
relimes 2 years ago
Now you mention it, you've a good point.
GaelicMagyar 2 years ago
I love this song and the man. Keep it up please Paul. Regards Marsh.
AlbertMarsh 2 years ago
Ah, Paul Brady the Irish Dick Gaughan, both great open tuning players with wonderful voices
getarslim 2 years ago 2
such a relaxing song i lve it donegal is a nice place
fluffybai2k9 2 years ago
this always reminds me of my 23rd birthday, in my friends house out in the sticks, on the outskirts of Larne county Antrim. We gave a fine rendition of this round the oul log fire. i wonder what other strange corners of the world Paul's music has travelled to?!
cmacmuiris 2 years ago
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sjlee1951 2 years ago
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It has traveled to Gun Barrel City, Texas today my fine Irish brother! I have listened to this song so many times I can't count. What a pure account of this ancient folk song from it's birthplace. Paul Brady should be toasted across your grand Isle and never experience thirst in all his days !!!!!
sjlee1951 2 years ago
i live in Larne :)
yeeeeeeeoman 2 years ago
And can I ask, do you see the Scots across the way as any kind of foreigner?
For what's worth, Antrim is like a wee bit extension of Ayrshire to me in some ways. The Ulster-Scots tongue, and the look towards her. I'm just asking, where do you see as home?
DonegalRaymie201 2 years ago
At least to all parts of scotland too!
I love Antrim too, i took my Fiancee to see Cushendal and Cushendun on the way to BallyCastle. I loved being back there, and i'm a macBride too boot!
I couldn't get over the Scots language we heard there in Antrim, was like SouthAyrshire! Even the numbers: Yin, Twa, Thray, Foer, etc.
When will we admit, you cannae separate Scots fae Irish in Ulster?
And I for one, widnae want tae! I love my Proddy brothers, they hivnae done nae harm!
brother1ray 2 years ago 2
The perfect arrangement of a great song by Paul Brady. This man is an artist of the very highest calibre.
MATWrehearsals 3 years ago
Right on scottbuchanan, beautiful song.
zenjoman 3 years ago
Dead right to bash up them brits, as if we'd fight against our allies who were the french at that time..... Cromwell savaged the irish by the way, and this is only a song and a great one at that.. Up Limerick!!
mullinavegas1986 3 years ago
You all should stop arguing about the content of the song and just enjoy the performance. You're putting to much thought into all of this. It's a great story and Paul Brady is a great talent...so shut up and enjoy.
scottbuchanan 3 years ago 26
It says they left them for dead, and that they asked if the soldiers would join them. Plus McBride was threated by the sergeant when they had done nothing but refuse to enlist for a pitiful bounty, and outright lies. For example "he pays all his debts" and "he always eats the best food", and "he always has a fine wife." This is arrant nonsense. Kipling always wrote that there was an army mantra "lieutenants can marry, captains may marry, generals must marry." I shouldn't have to explain THAT
ARP7777777 3 years ago
In all diffrent versions i ever heard, their is nothing especially said that the two soldiers and/or the drummer boy are killed. the phrase of the shillaleigh "coming over their heads" is nothing more than beating them so that the soldiers flee, as a picture of the free man who wont bow a superior power. to interpret the shillaleigh fight as a action of murdering the soldiers is in my opinion a bit to harsh.
conchobar1987 3 years ago
Best Christmas song ever!
victoriabagpiper 3 years ago
Has anyone else noticed how the pick-up sound on this guitar is inferior to the microphone set-up on the 77' recording. The earlier sound is much sweeter.
jimbutler1950 3 years ago
Hell Yes. Pickups, as I've encountered, never match up to a nice mic.
sunnyvale123 3 years ago
Two grown men beat a kid to death with clubs. Merry Christmas!
magistr88 3 years ago
Listen magistr88, the broken record is starting to make you sound dumb. There is an explicit refutation of your theory that they kill this kid. When the song mentions their "two bloody backs" and "a pair of wet sacks" (pair means two) it is clearly only the sargeant and corporal. In fact, the song also says the cousins "left them for dead", which doesn't mean even these two were killed. A folk song may have variants that could make you right, but this variant shows you not paying attention.
tjsull1973 2 years ago
a beautiful ending :-) job well done paul and forever remind your countrymen to laugh at the very idea of being anyone's cannon fodder. it is so good to see that paul has the strength to keep on and on performing this song through all these years and with so much grace, passion and humour.
20jazzfunkgreats 3 years ago
: "goo goo, goo goo barabajagal"
: "and the same to you gentlemen", we did reply
NickKostalas 3 years ago
The song originated in Donegal according to the sleeve notes from the Irvine and Brady Album/1977. This version comes from Limerick apparently which was a British Army Garrison town
lightn56 3 years ago
Does anyone know the history behind this song? Just curious. I love Celtic music and Irish folk tunes. I'm not of Irish extraction but I love St. Paddy's Day. It's one of my favorite holidays. I usually drink too much green beer and feel like Arthur McBride beat me over the head in the mornin' :)
magistr88 3 years ago
The song is a soldier's song about two irishmen that are tried to be conscripted into the British army. I'm guessing it's around the Napoleonic wars because it talks about being sent to France. Knowing that the story comes out of the song.
scottyjohn 3 years ago
Thanks!
magistr88 3 years ago
A shillelagh (Irish: sail éille, a cudgel with a strap), commonly pronounced /ʃɪˈleɪli/ "shi-LAY-lee" or "shi-LAY-la", IPA: [ɕaˈleːlə]) is a wooden club or cudgel, typically made from a stout knotty stick with a large knob on the end, that is associated with Ireland and Irish folklore.
magistr88 3 years ago
I like the song and think after what they did in Ireland, especially Cromwell's invasion, the English deserved what we call an ass woopin, but I still think it's cruel to kill a kid but like a general in our Civil War said, war is hell.
magistr88 3 years ago
Well, it wasn't very sporting to beat a kid to death with a stick and what the heck is a "rowdy dow dow"?
magistr88 3 years ago
a drum
slimmage 3 years ago
I don't think they beat them to death, just badly mauled, but yes....
volgodon 3 years ago
With their trusty shilleleaghes (sp?) or clubs they smashed in their heads. When you bash out somebody's brains with a club, they're not going anywhere. Anyway, a grown man beating a kid upside the head with a club isn't very sporting I wouldn't say.
magistr88 3 years ago
A shilleleagh is a short sword, similar to a Roman sword! And who cares, the English had ruled Ireland for hundreds of years against popular rule, Any solidier was fair game!
DonegalRaymie201 3 years ago
Men fighting men I can understand. Two men attacking a kid with a weapon seems pretty low. But, it's just a song. I always heard a shilleleagh was a stick but I'll take your word for it.
magistr88 3 years ago
The Shillelagh is A wooden club...
ceanadach 3 years ago
Yeah, my mistake.
DonegalRaymie201 3 years ago
No sweat bud.
ceanadach 3 years ago
Please Ignore, I was confusing with another word. Apologies to all!
DonegalRaymie201 3 years ago
They flattened his drum. The song makes no mention of them beating him.
malismad 3 years ago
Sorry but it does. The songs says with their trusty shileleaghs they bashed in their heads (the sergeant's the other soldiers and the drummer boy's).
magistr88 3 years ago
Sorry but it says, "we scarce gave them time for to draw their own blades, when a trusty shillaleigh came over their heads." The drummer wouldn't be packing a blade, just a set of drum sticks. The song then goes on to say, "AND the little, wee drummer we flattened his pow." This implies that his fate is different from the Sergeant and Corporal. I also doubt weather a shilaliegh blow to the head would've killed the two soldiers. They are made from blackthorn which is quite light.
malismad 3 years ago
No, the song says:"With our trusty shillalieghs we bashed in their heads." It doesn't say that the drummer was spared. I've seen pictures of walking sticks and their actually made of pretty solid wood, perfectly capable of dispatching someone if you hit them over the head with it. Anyway, it's just a song. A violent song, and a way different version of the Little Drummer Boy than what I'm used to, but just a song.
magistr88 3 years ago
it is very capable of killing a person, they are very soild and a swift blow could easily cause internal bleeding in the head leading to death. Perhaps this is a test for myth busters!
nooksak1 3 years ago
At any rate, this isn't exactly the same as that other Christmas song about the Little Drummer Boy ;)
magistr88 3 years ago
The text is clear in the verse that follows - "two bloody backs" & "pair of wet sacks". I think the problem is you jumped on something you felt smart to notice, but you didn't test it yourself before bringing it to the forum.
tjsull1973 2 years ago
This song is timeless Paul Brady...all ill say is it dont come much better than that
thejunkyardbear 3 years ago 2
i think his voice is better here than in the 70s, its more rough and it suits the song better
primarkopolop 3 years ago 7
@primarkopolop I hear your point... but nothing to me beats the purity of that 77 version
vermontdiva 1 year ago
wow wow!!incase any of u r thinkin taht i was sayin that paul brady was a prik ,i wasnt i was replying to BENNIE777'S comment PAUL BRADY IS A FUKIN LEGEND.
hipyaboyya 3 years ago
puts a smile on the face to listen to such a legend
paulCOLGAN 3 years ago
love planxty's version but Paul Brady can't be beaten on this one
pmcnamee466 3 years ago
Paul Brady is a brilliant musician, love him!!
LaEnchiladita 3 years ago 2
this man should have his own religion
toilntrouble 3 years ago
lanetemple, Thank you, Paul Brady!! That's a MASTERPIECE...nuff said.
lanetemple 3 years ago
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that is THE worst version of that song I've ever heard. though I'm used to Planxty and pub versions.
bennie777 3 years ago
F*** U
Baruc23450951 3 years ago
You clearly know fuck all about acoustic guitar playing
KingofRoath 3 years ago
That was meant to be reply to bennie777 not LaEnchilada by the way! I think I hit the wrong button
KingofRoath 3 years ago
fukin prick
hipyaboyya 3 years ago
The first time we heard this version in the mid-seventies we couldn't believe the magnificent guitar arrangement - we already knew the voice could soar like no one else - pure majic.
jaqmart 3 years ago
its actually 'we take great delight in our own company'
dergbey 3 years ago
I hope you are not saying that we have a case of kissing cousins here???
corkboy2 3 years ago
oh not at all im just sayin thats the words although i do notice that in this version he does say country but if you watch the Arthur McBride - Paul Brady 1977 version it says company
dergbey 3 years ago
We Take Great Delight in Our Own Country !
What have you got to say about that John Bull.
Go fight the Wars of your own making yourself!
corkboy2 3 years ago
WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK?
blackeconomics 3 years ago
Wow. He still owns this song.
Susq15 3 years ago 3
one of the best songs I ever heard and, by the way, he is the only man in the world who can sing 'Homes of Donegal'.
jimylannagh 3 years ago 2
fair play to you Paul- the true definition of a great Irish singer songwriter !Walked down memory lane with this one - Keeping the tradtion alive - top stuff :D
piagulf 3 years ago 3
..when we were soldiers..
XJR666 3 years ago
The best paul Brady version of this on youtube is the one from 1977....features more amazing guitar work, and his voice back then was thru the roof!!
maraismarin99 3 years ago
i have never heard of paul brady before i saw this and i can honestly say after listening to it I have no idea why I havent, he is very very good
jesuswearshoops 3 years ago 3
This is more Anti Crown than anti war, and with
due respect, for their was rumblings of revolt in Irelands green isle, at this time in history, make no mistake, any Irishman conscripted or volunteering saw it not as a opportunity to fight the on-slaught of the hun tryany, but rather to gain valuable military training for their own fight in history.
corkboy2 3 years ago 2
Absolutely unique rendition - the fusion of voice melody and playing puts this right off the scale - but did he ever get the credit, apart from fellow musicians who just stand in awe?.
jaqmart 3 years ago
first heard Paul sing this lovely ballad almost thirty years ago. Still sounds as good as ever.
clarebannerman 4 years ago
Sublime...
borrheid 4 years ago
Sublime is exactly right! I never get tired of this one.
(Borrheid - Renfrewshire, by any chance? I grew up in Auchenback.)
GerryMATW 4 years ago
Aye, just off the Paisley Road, went to St John's...
borrheid 4 years ago
Borrheid -
St.John's - me too! 1965-71.
manatthewindow 3 years ago
Aye...'77-'81, via St Peter's in Glenburn..
borrheid 3 years ago
This is a great song by a great singer.
angelseynj 4 years ago
For those of you who don't cruise the folk music alleys of the internet and of the world, this is the benchmark version of this song. None do it better tnan Paul Brady. He is a most briliant guitarist and singer.
lmorleytmorley 4 years ago 3
Yes, it's excellent, his voice is unparaelled! =]
ireland88 4 years ago
Here here, could not agree with you more, the mans a genius, who can match him.
scati1971 4 years ago
A friend who used to sing Arthur McBride sent me this link. I've always loved Paul Brady's singing and guitar playing, as he sings with a heartbreaking passion, so full of life and the beautiful voice of a gifted and wonderful singer, musician.
This is among the most beautiful songs and versions I've heard him sing and so great to find it here.
May Paul Brady live long and continue to bless us with his heartfelt voice and playing.
BrightMoment 4 years ago 4
One of the best songs ever written & beautifully performed by Paul.
jnhealy1 4 years ago
their fine use of the shaleighli suggests that they aren't as anti war as anti English
patriot1775 4 years ago
I think that they were actually anti-war/BS-propaganda.
Thinking person is entirely justified if they reach
for their "trusty shillelagh" when confronted with
shameless warmongering.
woland99 4 years ago 2
It was an anti-recruiting song from first world war.
dazzhiggins 4 years ago 2
Not the first world war, the Napoleonic wars. The vocabulary and the phrasing of the grammar in the lyrics dates it to around then. Words like "spalpeen" and "rapier" haven't been in common use for a very long time indeed. Also, it wasn't a flogging offence to modify a military uniform during the first world war.
Whatever....I split hairs. It's a terrific piece of verse and no one plays it better than Paul.
pissedinperu 4 years ago 5
ok earlier that First World War makes more sense; I can agree with that.
Des
dazzhiggins 4 years ago
A pure wild West, rebel song.
UnreservedName 4 years ago
You will almost always be mistaken to think that anti-war = pacifist.
martinmcmutrie 4 years ago 4
This is so good to see. Big thanks for posting it! Terrific when watched after the 1977 performance (youtube DOT com/watch?v=cBGkhPx529g).
martinmcmutrie 4 years ago
And amazingly, he sounds just as good! PB is such a brilliant musician... Thanks for posting. What a timely song now that we are at war.
NancyDrewe 4 years ago
Magnificent! Stirred up the Irish heritage of this 'ol Aussie sheila to be sure to be sure!
Hmm my hero Eric Bogle (Scottish anti-war singer) may have to share his pedestal with one Paul Brady from now on!
041oE 4 years ago