The Reason I Left Mullingar - Pat Cooksey

Beautiful song written by Pat Cooksey, and which soon became one of my first passions regarding this tradition of ballad. I love the story that it tells and the real problems it evokes and the way the consequences of those problems are depicted... that mavellous line "And when the pay's finished on Monday friend's not a friend any more." How poignant and desolate, and so often true.

I have changed the musical line at the end of each verse. Cooksey wanted it in a minor tone, but I needed the major version to lead into the harmonies of the refrain. I may redo the Cooksey way if enough people complain (there are bound to be a few... Just do it nicely please)! There is also one chord that I changed from minor to major (Em to G) towards the end (in the chorus). This was not because the Cooksey music did not pelase me (I adore it), but I wanted to lift the end a little.

The song remains a marvellous piece of writing and composition and any liberties I have taken are simply to produce something that suits my rendition. Like I said, if too many people decide I have done an injustice I shall return to the drawing board.

The flute bridge was not my creation... some of you will recognise it from another singer's interpretation of this song.

Thank you Pat Cooksey for this gem of a song. I have a hand-written note from you here in front of me, written on the 13th April this year (2009) and I treasure it, as I do the prospect of meeting you.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Mullingar
• Pat Cooksey
• Irish Folk
• Irish Songs

[flatlandersfolk]

Maybe you'd enjoy listening to our version of this fantastic song... you're welcome on our homepage flatlandersfolk.de, link on our channel! Cheers, FLATLANDERS

[michelstrogoff99]

@flatlandersfolk Certainly. Will let you know when I have been there.

[michelstrogoff99]

Dear Pat,

I am honoured that you managed to listen to my version of YOUR song, and thank you for the encouraging comment. Always welcome. Still looking forward to the day I meet you (possibly in the Strohalm Erlangen.)

Warmest regards, Emmanuel.